What is the Difference Between IOP and PHP?

Two types of addiction treatment programs you will encounter when you are exploring your addiction treatment options. While IOP and PHP programs may seem similar, there are some key differences you need to understand to help you choose the most appropriate rehab program to suit your needs.

What Is Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Treatment?

An intensive outpatient program provides psychological and medical help during rehab, offering more flexibility than other programs. For example, it allows you to continue to live at home, care for your children, or maintain employment.

How It Works

You will go to the treatment facility at specific times throughout your treatment for group counseling, individual therapy, and other services that are a part of your personalized treatment plan. Usually, the number of sessions you need to attend each week and when is based on your current progress in recovery.

Furthermore, flexibility is built into the program to allow you to work or care for your children. Therefore sessions can be during the day, in the evenings, or even on the weekends.

Who It Is For

IOP treatment is best suited for people who do not have difficulties committing to their recovery process. People should first complete medically supervised detox before enrolling in this program.

Furthermore, it is for people who do not need constant support and supervision and those that only have a mild to moderate alcohol or substance use disorder.

Who It Is Not For

IOP would not be a good treatment program in these situations:

• The at-home or work environment would expose the person to people and situations that encourage substance misuse.
• The person has not yet learned effective coping skills to deal with cravings and triggers.
• The person would be placed into triggering situations.
• The at-home life is not stable or supportive and could pose a risk of relapse.
• The person has transportation issues that would cause them to miss treatment sessions.

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?

A partial hospitalization program provides a more intense treatment program. However, PHP is not as intensive as residential or full-time inpatient programs. PHP does allow participants to return home in the evening to be with their families.

How It Works

PHP usually involves attending treatment sessions during the day for half-day or full-day sessions ranging from four to eight hours. Treatment sessions can run five to seven days a week.

People do have flexibility in tailoring their treatment plan to fit more than just individual therapy and group counseling. For example, they can include nutritional education, exercise, art therapy, and other options that better their physical and mental health.

Who It Is For

Medically supervised detox is also the first step before starting PHP. PHP is well-suited for people who recently completed a residential or full-time treatment program but do not yet feel fully capable of remaining sober without continued support.

Additionally, this program is ideal for people who want to have a transitionary period between rehab and returning to their normal routines. Other people who can benefit from PHP include:

• Those who are still struggling with post-acute withdrawal symptoms.
• People who have been through IOP but have relapsed.
• People who are still struggling with managing their cravings.

Who It Is Not For

PHP would not necessarily be the right program in the following situations:

• The person continues to relapse after completing IOP or PHP programs.
• The person does not have a strong support system at home.
• The at-home environment and people residing in the house would encourage substance misuse.
• The person’s addiction came about from a very traumatic experience, and they are still processing their trauma.
• The person is not confident they can remain sober when returning home in the evenings.

Things to Consider When Deciding Between IOP and PHP

When deciding between IOP and PHP, it is essential to consider the following:

• Lifestyle – If you have commitments at home that would otherwise prevent you from seeking residential, full-time, or PHP, IOP may be the best option. However, if you do not have these commitments, starting with a different program may be more appropriate.
• Time Commitment – The longer you receive treatment through a program, the more likely you will maintain long-term sobriety. So, when you cannot commit to a long-term residential or full-time program, IOP and PHP are perfect alternatives.
• Affordability  – Your financial situation can determine what type of treatment program you can afford. However, if you have health insurance, part of the essential coverage benefits are behavioral and mental health care services. Your insurance may also cover all or part of your rehab treatment. If you do not have insurance, you might qualify for Medicare. There are also grants, loans, and payment plans when you want to go to rehab.

IOP and PHP Treatment Programs in Palm Springs, CA

At Phoenix Rising Recovery in Palm Springs, CA, we offer a full range of addiction treatment programs and services, including residential, IOP, and PHP, at our luxury treatment center. No matter which treatment program you select, we provide a supportive, safe, and caring environment to overcome your addiction. Contact us today to speak with an addiction treatment intake specialist to learn more about our addiction treatment programs and decide which is best for you.