IOP

Intensive Outpatient (IOP) for OCD and Anxiety Treatment in Austin, Texas

You’re exhausted from the constant tug-of-war in your mind. You second-guess every move, thought, and feeling. You may be worried about your safety or the safety of your loved ones. You might be wondering if you're a danger to others or a bad person capable of the unspeakable. Or maybe your mind won’t stop picking apart your relationship, questioning whether you truly love your partner or whether they’re “the one.” You might find yourself avoiding doorknobs, public restrooms, or hugging your child because you’re afraid of spreading germs or causing harm.

Person standing alone on coastal rocks, symbolizing isolation and reflection during OCD or anxiety struggles. IOP in Austin TX offers support for healing.

You’re wondering if you’ll ever feel certain again. You’ve tried to reason with your mind, to seek reassurance, to do the right things “just in case.” But the relief never lasts. The obsessions always come back, louder and more demanding. Maybe your hands are raw from washing, or you’re spending hours in the shower trying to feel “clean enough.” Perhaps work has become overwhelming because you’re going above and beyond in a way that feels necessary, but it's pulling you away from what really matters. You might find yourself repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or even your own thoughts to make sure everything is “just right.” You could be stuck in endless mental loops: replaying conversations, reviewing past events, praying, or analyzing thoughts, just trying to make sure you didn’t miss something or do something wrong. And through it all, you’re doing your best to hold it together on the outside.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Austin, Texas

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Austin, Texas •

You’ve probably been told to “just stop worrying” or that “everyone has random thoughts,” but those responses don’t even come close to capturing what you’re going through. This isn’t about being quirky or overly cautious. This is a relentless mental health battle that hijacks your focus, your time, your relationships, and your sense of self. It’s not that you want to check, confess, or avoid; it’s that you feel like you have to, just to get through the day.

Maybe you’re ashamed to admit how much time your compulsions really take, or how much OCD is stealing from your life. You’re not overreacting. You’re not broken. You’re struggling with OCD, and it’s brutal. You’re craving real tools, not temporary relief. You’re craving a way out. That’s where Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists can help.

Young person sitting at desk with head in hands, feeling overwhelmed. IOP in Austin TX helps manage anxiety and OCD symptoms through structured support.

We specialize in treating OCD and truly understand how overwhelming and misunderstood it can be. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is designed specifically for people with OCD who need more than weekly therapy but don’t require inpatient care. In our IOP, you'll work with a team that understands the nuances of OCD, whether your fears center on harm, contamination, morality, relationships, or something harder to name. We use evidence-based treatment like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) in a supportive, structured environment where you’re never alone in the process.

If you’ve felt stuck, hopeless, or unheard, we’re here - and we get it.

FAQs: Intensive Outpatient Program

  • You will work closely with two therapists from Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists who will form your dedicated OCD treatment team.

    If you are new to our clinic, you will complete a virtual or in-person intake and treatment planning session with our IOP coordinator before your first day. For clients already seeing a therapist at AAOCDS, you can collaborate with your current therapist to identify treatment goals, which will then be shared with your IOP therapists.

    Your first day in our treatment program will focus on finalizing your personalized treatment plan and providing psychoeducation about OCD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and the structure of our intensive outpatient program. On the second day, you will continue with additional psychoeducation and begin the active components of ERP.

    While we follow a general treatment protocol, grounded in evidence based treatment, it is always tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. At the end of each session, you and your therapist will create an action plan outlining steps to complete before your next appointment.

    Research consistently shows that clients benefit most when they engage with treatment both during sessions and through activities between sessions. To help you get the most out of your care, we ask that you complete these action steps between sessions.

    Our therapists are committed to making this a positive and effective experience and welcome your feedback throughout the process. Near the end of the program, they will collaborate with you to develop a relapse prevention plan and a step-down plan for ongoing support, if needed.

  • Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for OCD treatment is designed for clients with moderate to severe OCD who need more support than traditional weekly therapy can provide. You might benefit from IOP if:

    • OCD symptoms are causing significant interference in your daily life

    • You haven’t made the progress you hoped for in standard outpatient therapy

    • You’re stepping down from a higher level of care, such as a residential or Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

    • You face logistical barriers to ongoing weekly treatment, such as living far from specialized care or having limited availability

    • You are motivated and want to accelerate progress toward treatment goals

    You do not need to have prior therapy experience to participate in our IOP. Whether you’re beginning treatment or continuing your journey, our team will meet you where you are and provide a structured, personalized approach to help you move forward.

  • We know there are many excellent OCD specialty programs across the country, and we’re proud to call many of them our colleagues. If you decide we’re not the right fit, just let us know and we’ll gladly help you find a program that better suits your needs.

    At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is uniquely designed to provide individualized, specialized care that helps clients make meaningful progress in a focused, supportive environment.

    Here’s what sets us apart:

    Specialized Care You Can Trust

    Our therapists are true OCD specialists - each has completed extensive, advanced training in evidence-based treatment approaches, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

    You’ll work with clinicians who not only understand the complexities of OCD, but who are also deeply committed to helping clients regain control and build a life beyond OCD.

    Personalized Care Backed by Experience and Innovation

    With over 13 years of dedicated service, we’ve earned a strong reputation both locally and within the OCD community for reliability, trust, and a commitment to excellence. Our clinic combines the benefits of established expertise and access to the latest innovative tools with a size that allows us to provide truly personalized attention. Here, you’re never just a number; you’ll receive compassionate, attentive care from therapists who take the time to understand your unique journey and are deeply invested in your progress.

    1:1 Care at the Core

    Many IOP programs rely heavily on group therapy. At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, we take a different approach, individualized care is the foundation of everything we do.

    Each client receives at least 20 hours of one-on-one therapy with a licensed clinician who holds a master’s or doctoral degree. While we deeply value the role of registered behavioral technicians and BCBAs in other settings, our program is uniquely staffed by fully licensed therapists with advanced degrees.

    We also offer an optional OCD support group to enhance your experience—but our focus remains on personalized, one-on-one treatment tailored to your specific goals and needs.

    Personalized, Flexible Treatment

    We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. While our treatment is rooted in research and best practices, your values, goals, and lived experience guide the process. Because all therapy is one-on-one, you won’t need to fit into someone else’s schedule or treatment plan; we tailor everything to you.

    Schedule That Works for You

    Most IOPs require clients to adapt to rigid schedules. At AAOCDS, we do our best to build a schedule around your life, making it possible to get the care you need without upending everything else.

    Ideal for Out-of-Town Clients

    Located in Austin, a vibrant and welcoming city, our program is especially well-suited for clients traveling from out of town. We provide guidance on accommodations and help make your stay as smooth and restorative as possible.

    Collaborative Care You Can Count On

    At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, we don’t work in isolation. Our team holds each other accountable to maintaining the highest standards and collaborates closely to provide the best possible care. Every week, our therapists participate in formal case conferences where we consult with our team of OCD specialists to review treatment plans, share insights, and ensure every client receives comprehensive, specialized support.

    Our collaborative approach helps us stay on top of the latest research, think creatively about challenges, and continuously refine treatment strategies—so you benefit from the most effective, individualized care possible.

    This collaboration doesn’t stop within our team. If another provider referred you to us, or if you have other providers involved in your care, we work closely with them before, during, and after your time with us (with your permission, of course) to ensure continuity and the best possible treatment outcomes.

  • At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, our individualized approach to intensive outpatient treatment allows our therapists to tailor a client's treatment plan to their unique experience. While therapy sessions often occur at one of our Austin area therapy offices, we also provide therapy sessions in the environments where our clients experience the most significant level of distress. For many clients, this means therapy sessions may occur at restaurants, shopping centers, parks, homes (or hotels for out-of-town clients), or other places throughout the community.

  • Our IOP typically occurs over a two-week period, totaling 20 hours of treatment, plus an additional 2-hour intake session for new clients.

    We offer sessions during regular daytime business hours, as well as weekday evenings and weekends to accommodate different schedules. Please contact us to discuss availability and find the best fit for you.

  • On average, clients in our IOP experience a 50% reduction in symptoms over the two week course of treatment. This level of progress is meaningful; however, IOP is often just one phase of care.

    Because transitioning from intensive treatment to no therapy at all can feel abrupt, we typically recommend a “step-down” plan following the program. This may include individual therapy, either with one of our OCD specialists or with an outside therapist, to help continue progress, solidify gains, and reduce the risk of relapse.

    The frequency and duration of follow-up care is tailored to each client’s individual needs and goals.

  • At the beginning of your IOP treatment, you’ll work with your therapists to create a personalized treatment plan with clear, measurable goals. Throughout the program, we’ll track your progress in several ways:

    • Objective measures, using reliable and valid symptom rating scales and questionnaires

    • Goal tracking, based on the specific milestones you identified

    • Your own experience, including how you feel and what changes you notice day to day

    Your treatment plan is flexible and individualized and can be updated as you grow and your needs evolve.

  • We know that when OCD takes hold, it often impacts the family, in addition to, the individual sufferer. To ensure the highest level of success, we will assess the level of accommodation that occurs by those you live with or those closest to you. Loved ones naturally want to help and may unintentionally reinforce OCD behaviors by participating in avoidance or rituals. OCD can often convince loved ones to “co-compulse.” With your permission, we will provide resources for your loved ones and can offer guidance during sessions on how they can best support your treatment. In some cases, involving loved ones directly, such as during exposure practices, can be especially helpful. Rest assured, we will always obtain your consent before involving anyone in your care.

  • We’re glad you’re considering coming to Austin for treatment. Many of our out-of-town clients stay in nearby hotels, vacation rentals, or extended stay accommodations for convenience and comfort. Below are accommodations near each of our office locations:

    If your IOP sessions are at our Round Rock Office (1721 Sam Bass Road):

    This office is just north of Austin and easily accessible from I-35.

    Nearby Lodging Options:

    • Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock – 420 Sundance Pkwy, Round Rock, TX 78681

    • Home2 Suites by Hilton – 1000 W Louis Henna Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78681

    • TownePlace Suites by Marriott – 541 Parker Dr, Austin, TX 78728

    • Airbnb & VRBO – Many options in Round Rock for families or longer stays. Many of our clients enjoy staying near the Domain or in the neighborhoods of Brushy Creek, Stone Canyon, Behrens Ranch, Forest Creek, Teravista, and downtown Round Rock.

    If your IOP therapy sessions are at our Allandale office (5900 Balcones Drive):

    This office is centrally located with quick access to shopping and restaurants.

    Nearby Lodging Options:

    • Lone Star Court – The Domain – 10901 Domain Dr, Austin, TX 78758

    • Colton House Hotel - 2510 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

    • Sonesta ES Suites Austin - 10201 Stonelake Blvd, Austin, TX 78759

    • TownePlace Suites Austin Northwest / The Arboretum - 10024 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78759

    • Airbnb & VRBO – Many of our clients enjoy staying near the Domain or in the neighborhoods of Allandale, Northwest Hills, Far West / Mesa Drive Area, Rosedale, Crestview, or the Arboretum.

    If your IOP sessions are at our Westlake office (205 Wild Basin Road):

    Nearby Lodging Options:

    • Hotel Granduca Austin – 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746

    • Residence Inn by Marriott Austin Southwest – 6000 US-290, Austin, TX 78735

    • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lakeway – 1943 Medical Dr, Lakeway, TX 78734

    • Homewood Suites by Hilton Austin Arboretum – 9423 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78759

    • Airbnb & VRBO – Many of our clients enjoy staying near the Arboretum or in the neighborhoods of Westlake Hills, Rollingwood, Bee Cave, or Lakeway.

  • Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is billed weekly and includes multiple individual therapy sessions throughout the week.

    • Daytime (before 4:45 PM): $2,500 per week

    • Weekday Evenings: $3,000 per week

    • Weekends: $3,250 per week

    A one-time intake fee of $400 applies for all new clients.

  • You will be asked to place a credit card on file when you schedule your initial appointment. 50% of the estimated cost of treatment will be charged to your credit card at the time of scheduling. This will reserve your treatment dates. The remaining 50% will be charged to your credit card on the first day of treatment. Additional fees incurred (e.g., intake session, additional treatment time, travel time, consultation with other treatment providers, requested letter and/or report writing, legal services, etc.) will be charged on the day services are rendered. Credit cards are securely stored through our encrypted client portal and we are only able to view the last four digits of your card and the expiration date.

  • While Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists does not file insurance claims directly for Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) services, we can provide a Superbill upon request. You can submit this to your insurance provider for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Many of our clients are able to recover a portion of their weekly IOP fees through their insurance.

  • Choosing to complete an intensive outpatient program is a big decision, and one that involves multiple factors. Please review our rescheduling and cancelation policies within this section when making your decision. Once you have completed your intake or consulted with your AAOCDS therapist and request to complete the L.I.F.E. program, our IOP coordinator will build a proposed schedule for you. You will have 72 hours to accept or decline the schedule once it is provided to you. Because intensive treatment requires reserving a significant number of hours specifically for you, there will be no refund if you cancel or miss a session for any reason. However, if you need to reschedule treatment before your first day of intensive treatment begins due to illness or emergency (e.g., death in the family, car accident, etc.), we will make every effort to reschedule your treatment within three months at no additional charge. Additionally, no refund will be given if therapy interfering behaviors are exhibited. Examples include, but are not limited to, substance abuse, failure to comply with assigned homework, consistently arriving late for sessions, etc. For whatever reason, if you decide to cancel at least 30 days prior to your scheduled treatment start date, a refund of the deposit will be issued minus a $250.00 administration fee. If you cancel within 7-29 days prior to your scheduled treatment start date, you will receive a refund of half of your paid deposit. If you cancel within fewer than 7 days notice, you will forfeit your entire deposit and no refund will be given. If at any time during the two weeks of treatment your treatment team determines that further treatment is not indicated, a refund minus the fees for treatment already received, minus a $250.00 administrative fee, minus the cost of one additional treatment day will be issued to you within 5 business days. Reasons your treatment team may suggest early termination of treatment include, but are not limited to, accelerated and rapid progress or a higher level of care is deemed more appropriate. No refunds will be provided for services rendered.

Meet Our IOP Team

Dr. Samantha Myhre, PhD, is our Assistant Clinical Director and IOP Coordinator. She brings a strong background in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and OCD, as well as a focus on self-worth, depression, and mindfulness. Dr. Myhre works with clients ages 6 and up and is known for her collaborative, compassionate approach.

Ann Elise Taylor, LCSW, PMH-C, works primarily with adults and specializes in anxiety, OCD, trauma, and perinatal mental health. She’s certified in perinatal mental health and integrates CBT, ACT, ERP, and EMDR to help clients move toward a more fulfilling life.

Ayla Bridges, LMFT, brings deep expertise in working with children, teens, and families. She helps clients navigate OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and behavioral concerns with a hands-on, strengths-based approach rooted in CBT, ERP, and PCIT. Ayla is passionate about helping younger clients build confidence, face fears, and develop lasting skills for everyday life.

Dr. Ansimone Youssef, PsyD, primarily works with adolescents and young adults experiencing OCD, anxiety, and depression. She emphasizes warmth, cultural humility, and holistic, evidence-based care tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Therapist taking notes during a session with a young adult client, personalized treatment through IOP in Austin TX for OCD and anxiety recovery.

Find Healing with an IOP in Austin, TX

Thinking about IOP can stir up a mix of emotions. Uncertainty, cautious optimism, even relief at the idea of support. You don’t have to have it all figured out. What matters is that part of you is ready for change, to feel more grounded, more in control, and more in alignment with the life you want.

At Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists, we’re here to walk beside you. Our IOP offers structured, evidence-based support for individuals who are ready to take meaningful steps toward healing, without needing inpatient care.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Call us at 512-246-7225 or email hello@austinanxiety.com to schedule your free IOP consultation.

  2. Talk through your goals, challenges, and options. We’ll help you determine whether our IOP is a good fit.

  3. Take the next step toward relief from anxiety, OCD, or overwhelm with expert support and a personalized plan.

You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s explore what healing could look like, together.

Other Services Offered in Texas

We know mental health care should be as unique as the people we serve. That’s why, beyond IOP, we offer a wide range of therapy services for kids & teens, and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, phobias, PTSD, emetophobia, social anxiety, panic, selective mutism, separation anxiety, tics, and BFRBs.

Our team also provides parent coaching, SPACE treatment, group therapy, psychological assessments, and online sessions across Texas. For younger clients, Camp Courage offers a supportive space to build skills and confidence in a community setting.

What makes our approach different? Every treatment plan is customized to your goals, grounded in evidence-based methods like CBT, ERP, and ACT, and delivered by compassionate, skilled therapists who truly care. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your family, we’re here to help you move forward on your terms.

Don't settle for a life limited by anxiety.

Schedule an appointment with our dedicated anxiety specialists, and experience the freedom of creating your own path.