Choosing the right level of care is an important part of entering treatment. PHP and IOP are two structured outpatient programs that provide clinical support without requiring overnight hospitalization. Each level offers a different degree of intensity, and the right fit depends on your symptoms, stability, and recovery needs.
What PHP Provides
PHP delivers the highest level of outpatient care. Clients attend programming most of the day, five days a week. This level of care is recommended for people who need daily support, structured therapy, psychiatric oversight, and a coordinated treatment plan.
PHP is often ideal for people transitioning from inpatient treatment, experiencing acute mental health symptoms, or needing a safe environment to stabilize after a relapse. Learn more about our PHP program.
What IOP Provides
IOP offers a lower level of intensity with more flexibility. Clients typically attend treatment several days per week for a few hours at a time. IOP is suitable for individuals who are medically and emotionally stable, able to function at home or work, and ready to practice independence while still receiving structured support.
Explore our IOP program to understand how flexible care can support long term recovery.
Key Differences Between PHP and IOP
- PHP includes daily treatment. IOP includes part time treatment.
- PHP provides more psychiatric support and monitoring.
- PHP is recommended for higher risk clients or people recently completing detox or residential care.
- IOP allows more independence, making it a step down after PHP.
Who Should Choose PHP
PHP is recommended for individuals with significant symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or unstable sobriety. It provides the structure needed to stabilize before transitioning into IOP.
Who Should Choose IOP
IOP is a good fit for people who can safely live at home or in supportive housing and who need consistent, but not daily, clinical support.
Related reading:
How to Break an Addiction
Major Depression Treatment
Which Program Is Right for You
Our clinical team can help determine the appropriate level of care during a confidential assessment. Treatment plans are tailored to your needs and updated as you progress.
