CVMC Launches New Intensive Outpatient Program to Expand Access to Behavioral Health Care in Cochise County

Canyon Vista Medical Center (CVMC) announced the launch of its new Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), expanding access to high-quality behavioral health services for adults in Cochise County and the surrounding region.

The new service provides structured, evidence-based outpatient treatment for individuals who need more support than traditional counseling or who are transitioning from a higher level of care.

CVMC's IOP addresses a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as substance use issues that occur alongside mental health challenges.

“Access to timely, appropriate behavioral health care is critical for the health of our community,” said Scott Avery, Chief Executive Officer of Canyon Vista Medical Center. “This program allows us to meet patients where they are in their recovery and provide the tools and support needed for long-term wellness.”

According to Maria Greer, Director of Inpatient and Outpatient Behavioral Health Services, the IOP was developed to help individuals access care before experiencing a mental health crisis while also serving as an important bridge for patients transitioning from inpatient treatment.

Greer said the service offers meaningful assistance for adults facing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma and other behavioral health conditions.

Led by licensed behavioral health professionals, the program includes:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatment
• Evidence-based group therapy and education
• Crisis prevention and symptom management tools
• Activity therapy and recovery-focused programming
• Discharge and aftercare planning to promote continuity of care

Participants attend three hours of therapy per day, three days per week, while maintaining daily responsibilities such as work, school and family commitments. This structured approach provides intensive therapeutic care during a critical stage of healing, helping individuals develop coping skills, build resilience and gain greater stability.

The IOP fills an important gap in the continuum of care by providing intensive treatment before a crisis escalates and offering additional support following an inpatient stay.

A key objective is to strengthen continuity of care by helping patients transition from higher levels of treatment to ongoing community-based services. Through individualized treatment planning and coordinated aftercare, the clinical team connects participants with resources that encourage sustained progress and long-term success.

In addition, CVMC offers a specialized Help for Heroes® track tailored to the unique needs of active-duty military personnel, veterans, first responders and other frontline professionals. The track provides a safe, supportive environment that acknowledges the experiences and challenges often associated with high-stress service roles.

Help for Heroes was created to provide military personnel, veterans and first responders with a supportive environment where participants can connect with others who understand the unique demands of service-oriented professions.

The Intensive Outpatient Program is open to adults ages 18 and older and accepts all insurance plans, as well as self-pay patients. Improving access to care and reducing barriers to follow-up treatment were key priorities in the development of the service.

The launch of the IOP reflects CVMC's ongoing commitment to strengthening behavioral health resources throughout Cochise County and southeastern Arizona. By bridging the gap between traditional outpatient counseling and inpatient treatment, the program gives individuals and families another pathway to access care, build stability and receive help before challenges become emergencies.