What’s the Difference Between PHP and IOP?

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 15.6% (43.7 million) of people aged 12 or older needed substance use treatment in 2021. Choosing a treatment program can be a daunting process. Everyone has their own unique story. And therefore, their path to recovery. There are numerous treatment options for substance use disorders and addiction. Levels of care range from around-the-clock inpatient or residential treatment to less intense outpatient programs. Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) both allow clients to live at home while receiving treatment at specified times. However, clients should consider the difference between PHP and IOP before choosing a treatment path.

PHP and IOP for Addiction Treatment

Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) provide support and therapy to individuals struggling with substance use or mental health disorders. While also allowing them to live at home. These programs are less restrictive than residential or inpatient programs. Therefore, they are suitable for those with mild to moderate addiction. 

PHP or IOP are traditionally step-down options following a detox, inpatient, or residential program. These are also options for those with barriers that prevent them from entering a residential facility such as responsibilities like work or school. Or barriers to the cost of inpatient programs. 

PHP and IOP create greater access for people who would otherwise be unable to receive addiction treatment. Accordingly, it is essential to learn the difference between PHP and IOP when seeking treatment options. If more structure and monitoring are needed, a recovery residence or sober living facility is available.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), also known as Day Treatment, is considered the highest level of outpatient treatment. Clients can live at home or preferably stay in a sober living home during the program. Clinical teams may suggest their clients step down to this level of care after they’ve completed detox or residential treatment. Also, PHP is covered by insurance providers, although benefit specifics vary by individual plans.

At Flatirons Recovery, our Day Treatment runs Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, and lasts for 4-8 weeks. This is typical for most PHPs. Unlike IOP, these programs last for 5-8 hours per day, 5 days per week. That means that most people with a job may need time off to attend this level of care. The key distinction between IOP and PHP is how long someone attends the program.

Most PHPs provide medication management from a medical doctor, access to facility amenities, and all therapeutic services. During Day Treatment, clients have individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy available when needed. Additionally, other addiction treatment services may include the following:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Trauma therapy
• Dual diagnosis
• Nutrition
• Relapse Prevention
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
• Community-based recovery (Smart Recovery and 12-Step)
• Experiential programming (art therapy, equine therapy, hiking, and rock climbing)

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a treatment option for addressing addiction and other conditions. It allows clients to live at home while receiving the necessary support and care they need. Another difference between PHP and IOP is that IOP is more flexible. Clients meet for group therapy and individual counseling three to five days a week, totaling 12 to 20 hours of treatment weekly. IOPs can last from 4 to 12 weeks based on the client’s needs and progress. Sessions may include group therapy, support groups, life skills classes, relapse prevention, and individual counseling.

At Flatirons Recovery, our IOPs are holistic, focusing on mindfulness, community, integrative medicine, nature-based fitness, and nutrition to support each person’s overall well-being. The program not only helps individuals overcome addiction but also equips them with coping skills, a support system, improved problem-solving abilities, and enhanced self-awareness. This comprehensive approach aims to help clients remain addiction-free and reintegrate smoothly into their families and communities.

Evening IOP

IOPs (Intensive Outpatient Programs) can benefit those dealing with addiction. However, they may not always be easily accessible due to the time commitment involved. Consequently, some individuals find it challenging to dedicate 12 to 20 hours a week to attending addiction treatment. To address this issue, Flatirons Recovery offers evening IOP. Specially designed to be more convenient for people with busy daytime commitments.

Evening IOPs operate similarly to night classes.  Thereby, making them a suitable option for parents, full-time workers, and anyone with significant daytime responsibilities. Suppose someone is struggling with addiction but cannot find enough time in their day or week to attend a regular IOP. In that case, the evening IOP at Flatirons Recovery might be a more suitable and accessible option.

Discover Flatirons Recovery PHP and IOP in Colorado

At Flatirons Recovery in Boulder, Colorado, our comprehensive programs include personalized treatment plans, individual and group counseling sessions, medication management, relapse prevention, family support programs, aftercare planning, and more. We strive to create a safe environment where individuals can heal from their substance use disorder while learning tools to help them maintain long-term sobriety.

We believe recovery is possible with the right support system. If you or someone you know needs help with addiction, mental health, or dual diagnosis treatment please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for more information about our services. Together we can develop an individualized plan of action so that you or your loved one can begin their journey toward lifelong recovery

Contact us today at Flatirons Recovery to learn more about the difference between PHP and IOP and which treatment option would be best for your situation.