The choices for treatment for a mental health or substance use disorder can be overwhelming. However, deciding the most appropriate level of treatment—the specific type and setting—is a vitally important step in recovery.
What You Need To Know About Partial Hospitalization For Substance Use & Mental Health Disorders
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) for substance use and mental health disorders offer intensive care while providing individuals with the flexibility to return home or to a supportive environment in the evenings. PHP is designed for individuals who require a structured and comprehensive treatment approach but do not need round-the-clock monitoring. This program can be a practical intermediate step between inpatient/residential treatment and outpatient care.
In a PHP, individuals attend treatment sessions during the day, typically five days a week, for several hours each day. The program offers a range of therapeutic interventions, including:
- individual therapy
- group therapy
- medication management
- psychoeducation
- holistic activities such as art therapy or mindfulness practices.
The daily treatment sessions help individuals:
- develop coping skills
- address underlying issues
- build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
PHPs also provide accountability and support that can be crucial during the initial stages of recovery.
What You Need To Know About Intensive Outpatient For Substance Use & Mental Health Disorders
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for substance use and mental health disorders provide less intensive care than inpatient or partial hospitalization programs, but are more structured and supportive than traditional outpatient treatment. IOPs are designed to accommodate individuals who require a higher level of care than traditional outpatient therapy can provide while still allowing them to maintain their daily responsibilities and live at home or in a supportive environment.
IOPs typically involve several hours of treatment sessions daily, a few days a week. The program duration can vary, ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s needs and progress. These programs offer a range of therapeutic interventions, including:
- individual counseling
- group therapy
- family therapy
- psychoeducation
- skill-building sessions.
The structured treatment sessions help individuals address underlying issues, learn coping skills, develop relapse prevention strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. Additionally, IOPs often focus on building a strong support system through group therapy, which provides opportunities for peer support and shared experiences.
Get more information about RisingPhoenixAZ and our PHP Program here.
Similarities Between PHP & IOP
PHP and IOP are structured treatment programs for substance use and mental health disorders. They provide a level of care that is less intensive than an inpatient/residential treatment but more comprehensive than traditional outpatient therapy.
Both programs:
- Offer a range of therapeutic interventions, including individual therapy, group therapy, and psychoeducation.
- Focus on addressing underlying issues, developing coping skills, and promoting recovery.
- Support individuals in achieving and maintaining sobriety or mental health stability while allowing them to live at home or in a supportive environment.
- Involve a multidisciplinary treatment team that includes licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists.
- Provide peer support and shared experiences are often emphasized in both PHP and IOP through group therapy sessions.
The specific structure and duration of PHP and IOP can vary depending on the individual’s needs and the treatment center’s approach.
Differences Between PHP & IOP
- PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) is a more intensive level of care compared to IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program).
- PHP typically involves full-day treatment, often five days a week, while IOP requires several hours per day, a few days a week.
- PHP is recommended for individuals with more severe symptoms or those requiring more support and monitoring. IOP is suitable for individuals who need a structured program but can maintain their daily responsibilities.
- PHP provides a more immersive treatment environment, whereas IOP allows individuals to return home to a supportive environment in the evenings.
- The frequency and duration of treatment sessions differ, with PHP typically having more frequent and more prolonged sessions than IOP.
- Because of its higher level of care, PHP may offer a broader range of therapeutic interventions and services compared to IOP.
- PHP is often considered an intermediate step between inpatient/residential treatment and outpatient care. IOP is a step down from PHP or a suitable starting point for individuals with less severe symptoms.
How To Determine The Type Of Treatment You Need
Determining the type of treatment you need, whether a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) or Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), depends on several factors, including:
- Severity of condition: PHP is typically recommended for individuals with more severe symptoms or requiring more intensive care. A PHP might be more suitable if your condition significantly impacts your daily functioning or risks your safety.
- Level of support required: Assess your need for structured support. PHP generally involves full-day treatment, often five days a week, with therapeutic activities like individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and other interventions. On the other hand, IOP offers a less intensive level of care, often involving several hours of treatment per day, a few days a week. PHP may be the better choice if you require a higher level of support and accountability.
- Personal circumstances: Consider your living situation, work commitments, and family responsibilities. IOP may be a viable option if you have a stable and supportive home environment and can maintain your daily responsibilities while attending treatment. On the other hand, PHP provides a more structured and immersive treatment environment that may be necessary if you require a higher level of care or if your home environment is not conducive to recovery.
- Treatment history: PHP might be the recommended option if you have previously tried outpatient treatment and have not achieved the desired results or require a more intensive level of care to address your condition effectively.
Remember that the decision ultimately rests with a mental health professional or addiction specialist who can comprehensively assess your needs.
Why Choose Rising Phoenix?
When choosing between PHP and IOP, consider which program fits your needs, lifestyle, insurance coverage, and long-term recovery goals. Remember that neither option is “better”—both are effective. Talk to your medical professional, an addiction specialist, or local rehab and recovery center for advice and guidance.
The important thing is to take that first step towards recovery. Rising Phoenix Wellness Services is a licensed mental health and substance use disorder center in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our addiction and mental health treatment program offers a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment where clients are embraced, not judged, throughout their recovery process.
Let us help you recognize the unique value of your life and improve your overall health and wellness.