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PHP vs. IOP

A woman thinking about PHP vs. IOP

Do you struggle with addiction, and are you seeking help? Or does a loved one have a substance use disorder (SUD) and is ready to start recovery? Not all addiction treatment programs are the same. If you are interested in outpatient rehab, did you know there is a range of options? From low-intensity outpatient treatment to higher levels of care, such as intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization programs, you have choices. If you want to figure out what is best for you or your loved one in terms of PHP vs. IOP, Roaring Brook Recovery can help.

Call the Roaring Brook staff at 855.590.9944 to learn about partial hospitalization vs. intensive outpatient care. We can answer your questions and learn more about your needs.

What Does Outpatient Mean?

Outpatient treatment offers the same evidence-based treatment that a residential program would offer, but with the ability to continue living at home, surrounded by your own support network of friends and family.

An OP (outpatient program) is usually less expensive because the price does not include room and board. Ideal for anyone who has a reliable living situation and a trusted support network, outpatient programs are a great way to begin recovery. Because there are varying levels of intensity, there is usually an outpatient program that works for everyone.

IOP Definition

An IOP for addiction offers greater wrap-around care than a low-intensity program. It requires more of a time commitment than the regular OP but still allows you to stay connected to work, continue with school commitments, and meet your responsibilities to family. Some adjustments may need to be made in your schedule outside of rehab, but that is not usually a problem, as prioritizing your health is important.

PHP Definition

A partial hospitalization program is, as it sounds, as close as you can get to an inpatient program without actually sleeping and living at the facility. Offering the highest level of intensity available outside a residential program, PHPs require more time than IOPs, usually between four and six hours a day. This is similar to a part-time job and may require you to cut back on some of your commitments outside of rehab.

However, you may well be able to work part-time at your job or take a lighter load of classes at school. With the support of your family and friends at home, a PHP works very well for those who will benefit from the highest level of outpatient care.

PHP vs. IOP for Addiction

The similarities between these two intensive levels of outpatient care are as follows:

  • You can live at home
  • You can stay connected to your responsibilities and commitments
  • You will save money on room and board
  • Both offer a high level of care

There are some criteria that may eliminate one of these programs and suggest the other. Qualifying for an IOP or PHP with your insurance usually depends on a few factors, such as:

  • Your medical history
  • Mental health status
  • Addiction history
  • Whether you have ever experienced relapse before

The clinician who does your intake and the team putting together your individualized treatment plan will help determine what level of care you need—IOP or PHP.

The differences between the two high-intensity OP options are mostly in the level of care and time commitment. A PHP will demand the most time and thus provide more hours per week of care.

Call Roaring Brook Recovery for Your Addiction Treatment Program Options

We can answer any questions you have about the different outpatient options for SUD treatment. Both PHP and IOP for addiction provide evidence-based therapy modalities and relapse prevention and life skills classes. They work well for those with a co-occurring mental health disorder, a previous history of relapse, or a long-term, intransigent SUD. Many people benefit from PHPs and IOPs every year.

Please reach out to Roaring Brook Recovery to learn more about how we can help you begin recovery. It’s easy to connect with one of us. Just use our convenient online contact form or call 855.590.9944.