Millions of people in the United States struggle with substance abuse or addiction. Untreated addictions can harm a person’s physical or mental health, damage relationships, and cause other serious complications.

Overcoming addiction can be challenging. Most people require intensive treatment and continuing support to stop using addictive substances and avoid relapse.

There are many levels of treatment available to help people overcome addiction. Finding the correct type of treatment and support is essential to a successful recovery journey.

Two of the most common types of outpatient treatment programs are intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and partial hospitalization programs (PHP). This article will explore the differences between these outpatient therapy programs.

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment services at the Carolina Center for Recovery. Explore our treatment programs or schedule an appointment by contacting our intake specialists now.

What is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is an outpatient addiction treatment option. People may attend an IOP independently or after attending a residential treatment program.

An intensive outpatient program offers a high level of support for people living with substance use disorder (SUD). This intensive level of care provides treatment sessions several hours a day, up to five days per week.

An IOP treatment plan may include:

• Individual counseling
• Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy
• Family therapy, when appropriate
• Group therapy sessions
• Relapse prevention therapy
• Holistic therapies, including exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and more

An intensive outpatient treatment program offers high-quality treatment three to five days a week, which allows people to stay engaged in their daily responsibilities. Many people continue going to work or school while receiving life-saving treatment.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is the most intensive level of outpatient treatment. Mental health and medical practitioners provide high-quality, intensive treatment several hours a day, every day of the week. People may spend up to 40 hours a week engaging in treatment sessions.

Treatment sessions may include:

• Medication management
• Co-occurring treatment for mental health conditions
• Individual therapy
• Family therapy
• Support groups
• Relapse prevention education
• Coping skills practice
• Holistic therapies, including art and music therapy, exercise, outdoor recreation, mindfulness, and more

The rigorous schedule of a PHP treatment program mimics the intensive schedule of an inpatient program. However, unlike residential care, PHP treatment programs allow people to return home after participating in a treatment session.

The intensive schedule of a PHP may limit people’s ability to work or attend school as usual. However, this schedule allows people to get high-quality treatment while staying engaged with their social support network.

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What is the Difference Between IOP and PHP?

PHPs and IOPs provide intensive outpatient support for people with addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. These treatment programs provide valuable support that can help people achieve long-term sobriety.

However, there are some important differences between these levels of care. Understanding these differences can help people make the best decisions about their care.

Generally, a PHP is a good option for people who require intensive treatment but do not require residential treatment. This may include:

• People who are unable to maintain sobriety with less intensive care
• Live with co-occurring mental health disorders
• Require significant support to prevent relapse
• Have participated in a residential treatment programs
• Lack confidence in their ability to remain sober

An IOP offers a lower level of care than a PHP but still provides rigorous support. It may be the right level of support for people who:

• Do not experience acute withdrawal symptoms
• Are medically stable and do not require round-the-clock care
• Do not have a mental health condition requiring continuous supervision and care
• Do not have persistent cravings
• Can maintain sobriety without continuous supervision and support

An IOP provides fewer hours of treatment per week. This flexibility may allow people to remain engaged in their daily responsibilities while providing high-quality care.

IOP vs. PHP: Which One is Right for Me?

Finding the right level of care is critical to your success in recovery. Before beginning a treatment program, a medical or addiction specialist will assess your needs. The information they gather will help them recommend the appropriate level of care.

Your substance abuse assessment may consist of:

• Lab testing
• A physical exam
• Questions about your past and current substance abuse
• A mental health and medical history
• A family history of substance abuse and addiction

Get treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of addiction. Overcoming addiction can be challenging, but getting the right level of care can help you work toward lifelong recovery.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggle with substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Find the support and treatment you need at the Carolina Center for Recovery. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs or schedule an appointment.