IOP vs. PHP Treatment Programs for Mental Health or Substance Use Disorders

When people consider treatment for mental health or substance use, they may believe that the main decision lies between an inpatient or outpatient program. It is vital to decide whether to receive treatment while living at a residential facility or living at home. However,  individuals must understand the different treatment programs that lie within each of these categories.

For example, outpatient treatment can be broken down into regular outpatient, intensive outpatient (IOP) and partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Knowing the characteristics of each program can make all the difference in the effectiveness of the treatments themselves.

What are outpatient treatment programs for mental health or substance use disorders?

Generally, outpatient treatment programs call for patients to live at home while they receive treatment at a facility. In other words, these are non-residential programs. Compared to inpatient treatment, outpatient programs are usually cheaper and more flexible. These programs tend to be more suited for individuals who have work, school or child-care responsibilities. They can also be beneficial for individuals who have access to extensive social support systems.

Still, outpatient treatment programs vary based on the type and intensity of services offered. General outpatient programs are the lowest-intensity outpatient service. Respectively, IOP and PHP gradually increase in treatment intensity.

All three treatment programs provide valuable treatment services for those struggling with mental health or substance use. Even still, each program is unique and some may be better suited to certain situations than others.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOPs offer medium to high-intensity outpatient treatment programs. This type of treatment program is suitable for individuals who do not require around-the-clock supervision or medical care. Because of this, IOPs are often recommended to bridge the gap between residential and outpatient treatment. In other words, these treatment programs may be best for those who need additional support when transitioning out of more intensive care programs.

Despite their intensity, IOPs are still flexible treatment programs. They allow patients to ease back into daily life outside of residential treatment without feeling intimidated by total independence. Typically, IOPs require at least three hours of treatment a day for three to five days a week. They may last weeks or months, depending on the needs of the patient.

IOPs offer a plethora of different treatment services and options for patients. Patients are required to attend individual psychotherapy sessions. In addition, they will be encouraged to participate in group therapy as well as psychoeducational training. One of the most important components of long-lasting sobriety is community support, which is why sober networking throughout IOP is essential. In addition, it may be helpful for patients to know that some treatment facilities offer online IOPs. 

Intensive outpatient programs may not be a good fit for high-risk patients. In these cases, a PHP may be the more appropriate option.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

PHPs are high-intensity outpatient treatment programs. Similar to an IOP, a PHP allows patients to receive treatment at a facility during the day and return home during the evening. PHPs were originally designed for high-risk mental health patients. However, these services are now highly valued and utilized for addiction and mental health treatment.

Like IOPs, patients will most likely enter a PHP following the completion of detoxification or residential treatment. The contrast is that PHPs call for greater treatment attendance and participation compared to IOPs. Often, patients in PHP will need to be available for treatment almost daily. As mentioned previously, PHPs are valuable for high-risk patients as they provide greater psychiatric monitoring and supervision for patients.

Nonetheless, PHPs offer a variety of different treatment services, including both individual and group therapy. These services are utilized to help patients navigate and overcome stress as well as prevent relapse for those who may be more vulnerable. PHPs can be recognized as a highly-intensive outpatient alternative to residential care.

Choosing a Treatment Program to Fit Your Needs

If this is your first time seeking treatment for mental health or substance use, it can be overwhelming to determine the best treatment program for you. Depending on the severity of your needs, a healthcare professional may recommend residential treatment. Still, even if you know that you need an intensive program, this may not be in the cards for you due to personal responsibilities.

Fortunately, IOP and PHP are two great treatment options that can bring you closer to achieving and maintaining lifelong recovery. First-time treatment seekers should seek guidance from staff at local treatment facilities that offer both kinds of services to discover their best option. Voice your personal concerns and treatment goals to the staff member so they are taking all factors into account in their recommendation. This is especially important if you are at high risk of relapse or are experiencing co-occurring disorders.

Keep in mind that IOPs and PHPs may look different depending on the treatment center. Do not be afraid to ask staff members for more information on their facility’s specific offerings.

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are two types of outpatient programs that offer unique services for patients. Understandably, it can be challenging to choose between these programs. Associated Behavioral Health Care is a comprehensive mental health and addiction treatment facility that understands the value of both IOP and PHP. If you or your loved one is in need of intensive treatment, do not hesitate to call us for more information. Call (844) 335-7384 today to learn more.

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