Virtual Intensive Outpatient Therapy Program (IOP)
Take a brief pause, share and learn with peers in guided group therapy with our Virtual IOP in Missouri and Illinois. Program is CARF Accredited since 2018.
What is IOP?
Our virtual Intensive Outpatient Therapy Program (IOP) is a group therapy focused on the mental health of working professionals in our community. It is designed and centered on giving you a place to share your voice, concerns, and needs in a space filled with people going through the same things you are. In a telehealth setting, get help learning to deal with the stressors of work, home, and life.
How does it work?
Upon referral from a psychiatrist, you will begin our virtual IOP with a one-on-one intake session with a therapist, who will use that time to find out your unique situation and treatment needs, and prepare you for your first virtual IOP session. Users will take part in a virtual group session with other group members and the therapist leading that session. Sessions will involve both large and small group lessons and activities to give participants the opportunity to both have their voices heard, and hear from others experiencing situations just like theirs. Our telehealth IOP typically lasts for 6 weeks – 18 sessions – but can be shorter or longer depending on each participant’s unique needs.
What is a session like?
Our Intensive Outpatient Therapy Program is currently operated as a virtual IOP. This means the group sessions will take place over an audio-visual telemedicine session, where you can join from your phone, tablet, or computer. Our online IOP aims to give you the flexibility and access to still participate in therapy without the commute and pressures of in-person group sessions. Take part in group therapy from your home, Tuesday-Thursday.
Who is it for?
Lakeside Behavioral Health virtual IOP is for those individuals who need to take a pause, breathe for a moment, and learn some new skills before continuing on with their careers and life. Based in St. Louis but serving patients through telehealth in Missouri and Illinois!
Will my insurance cover it?
Medical Leave From Work
Medical Leave of Absence is not required to participate in Lakeside Behavioral Health virtual IOP, but we will facilitate the provider portion of the leave certification and the Return to Work Attestation if leave is requested.
Taking Leave from Work for IOP
Many patients considering our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) also wonder whether they can take time off work to participate. Lakeside Behavioral Health understands that balancing treatment with professional responsibilities can be challenging, which is why we assist with the necessary documentation for stress leave, sick leave, medical leave, short-term disability, and FMLA.
Our care team regularly completes provider forms and coordinates with employers, insurance carriers, and disability benefits programs. While a medical leave of absence is not required to attend our virtual IOP, we can supply all paperwork needed if you and your employer decide leave is the best option. For many individuals, these protections make treatment more accessible and provide peace of mind during recovery.
Taking approved leave allows you to focus fully on therapy without the added stress of workplace demands. For some, this may mean using FMLA to secure job protection during treatment. Others may find that short-term disability coverage supports their time away from work while addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, or OCD. Whatever your needs, our team will walk you through the process and ensure the right documentation is in place.
By supporting your mental health with time set aside for recovery, you can return to work better equipped, with new tools to manage stress and renewed energy to succeed.
Find Virtual IOP Care Near You
Our Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) reaches patients across Missouri and Illinois. Choose your state to learn more about scheduling, insurance, and program specifics.
Virtual IOP in Missouri
Structured group programming delivered from home to adults living anywhere in Missouri.
Learn more about Missouri IOP →Virtual IOP in Illinois
Full IOP access for Illinois residents, licensed clinicians, and insurance coverage across the state.
Learn more about Illinois IOP →Care Team
Ashok Yanamadala, M.D.
Tammy Alvarez
Vivek Yanamadala, M.D.
Psychiatrist & Chief Clinical Advisor
IOP Scheduling
Take the Next Step
Reach out and our team will walk you through evaluation, scheduling, and insurance verification. In-person care is available in St. Louis and O'Fallon. Virtual therapy and IOP extend throughout Missouri and Illinois.
- CARF Accredited
- Most major insurance accepted
- In-person and virtual appointments
- Adult psychiatry, therapy, IOP, and TMS