Both partial hospitalization programs/partial care and intensive outpatient programs are extremely effective treatments for addiction and mental health conditions. PHP/Partial Care offers a higher level of care with 4-6 hours of treatment schedules. It is best suited for individuals who need intensive care but without the requirement for 24/7 supervision.
Whereas IOP provides more flexibility. It is 2-3 hours of treatment sessions per day. It is more suitable for individuals transitioning from higher levels of care or looking for rehab after-work options. Both programs focus on therapy, skill-building, and relapse prevention but cater to different levels of addiction. Read on to learn which program is best suited for your needs.
ChoicePoint offers virtual, evening, and weekend IOP and Partial care in New Jersey that fits your schedule! Call 844.445.2565 to schedule an appointment.
Table of Contents
What Is PHP Therapy Vs. Intensive Outpatient Program?
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) therapy and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) are standard treatments that comply with ASAM levels of care. The ASAM levels of care are guidelines that match people with the right level of addiction treatment based on their needs. The goal is that every individual should receive appropriate intensity of care according to their diagnosis.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)/Partial care falls under ASAM Level 2.5, which is defined as a Partial Hospitalization Services level of care. Whereas an intensive outpatient program is ASAM level 2.1. It is more flexible than Partial Care. It is suited for individuals with moderate levels of addiction.
Here are some similarities between PHP Therapy vs. IOP
a.Outpatient Setting
Both partial care and IOP do not involve a residential stay or an overnight stay.
b. Evidence-based Treatment
Both levels of care are developed after several clinical trials. This means that there is substantial evidence available that both these treatments work for mental health improvement and addiction.
c. High Success Rates
According to NCBI, outpatient treatment reported better alcohol abstinence rates. It also reported better outcomes for detoxification in outpatient settings compared to inpatient treatment.
d. Similar Goals
Both IOP and PHP aim to improve your condition, prevent relapse, improve your quality of life, and help you adjust to an addiction-free life.
Differences Between PHP and IOP (Based on ASAM Criteria)
Features | PHP/ Partial Care | IOP |
---|---|---|
Level of Care | ASAM Level 2.5: Partial Hospitalization Services | ASAM Level 2.1: Intensive Outpatient Services |
Intensity | More intense, 4-6+ hours of care per day, 5-7 days/week. | Part-time care, typically 3-5 days/week, 9-20 hours total/week. |
Supervision | Regular medical and psychiatric monitoring, but no overnight care. | Regular medical treatments are less intense than PHP. |
Clinical Focus | Addresses severe symptoms requiring intensive treatment, including co-occurring mental health conditions . | Focuses on maintaining recovery and managing mild-to-moderate symptoms. |
Treatments | Comprehensive daily structure in a clinical setting; patients return home at night. | Flexible scheduling to balance treatment with work, school, or family life. |
Ideal Candidate | Individuals with moderate to severe addiction levels or those at risk of relapse. | Individuals with stable living environments and a lower risk of relapse. |
At What Point Does A Doctor or Therapist Suggest IOP and PHP?
Your doctor or therapist might transition you from IOP to PHP if:
- You require more intense monitoring
- Your symptoms are not improving
- You will benefit from more frequent check-ins
Similarly, you may transition from PHP to IOP if your symptoms are improving and you are stable enough to enroll in a more flexible program.
Is IOP the same as PHP?
Are IOP and PHP Treatments Helpful? What Our Doctor Has to Say
IOP and PHP treatments are great because they offer frequent check-ins. Think of it this way: if you have a problem you want to discuss, you don’t have to wait weeks for the next appointment. You can talk to a specialist the very next day.
Furthermore, both IOP and PHP offer comprehensive care. These treatments not only offer frequent meds adjustments and monitoring but focus on holistic healing. For example, in partial care or IOP for cocaine addiction treatment, you will learn trigger management and coping mechanisms, identify the causes of addiction, participate in family therapy to heal family issues, etc. PHP and IOP offer a full package for addiction treatment.

Executive Clinical Director at ChoicePoint.
Should You Prefer Outpatient Model of Care Over Inpatient Treatment?
So, we have a lot of clients who are working, building careers, building family life. Quitting everything and going to rehab is not an option for them. I remember a client of mine who has 2 little kids. She couldn't attend rehab and her condition was getting worse. For such individuals outpatient care such as PHP and IOP are life-saver. They work just as efficiently as inpatient care. However, the clients have to put in extra commitment on their end
What Happens In Partial Care/PHP and Intensive Outpatient Treatment?
Bot PHP and IOP for mental health and addiction are effective treatments. Here is what to expect when you start an IOP treatment.
a. Medical Detox
Alcohol and drug detox to help you safely quit substance abuse such as:
Polysubstance abuse, such as mixing suboxone and alcohol, Xanax and cocaine, etc.
b. Therapeutic Sessions
Individual, group, and family therapy to address emotional and behavioral challenges.
c. Medical Support
Ongoing medical monitoring in PHP and as-needed check-ins in IOP.
d. Life Skills Training
Practical guidance on managing triggers, communication, and maintaining sobriety.
e. Addiction Counseling
Psychoeducation on addiction, mental health, and coping mechanisms.
f. Aftercare Planning
Developing a long-term recovery strategy according to the individual needs.
Example Schedules for PHP and IOP
Time | Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) | Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) |
---|---|---|
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Check-in & Vital Signs Monitoring | Group Therapy Session |
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Group Therapy (CBT group therapy / DBT techniques) | Individual Counseling |
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Break | Break |
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Recreational activities (art therapy, group activities, etc.) | Medication-assisted Treatment, Medication review, Skills Training & wrap-up |
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Break | - |
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Individual Therapy | - |
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Break | - |
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Family Counseling, Relapse Prevention, or Medication Management & wrap-up | - |
Helpful Link: Your Quick Guide to HIOP/PHP Rehab Near You for Alcohol and Drug Addiction
Insurance Coverage and Cost Analysis
Most health insurance plans, including private insurance (BCBS of NJ, Optum, United Healthcare) and government insurance (like Medicaid or Medicare), provide coverage for PHP and IOP under mental health and addiction treatment benefits. Coverage varies depending on:
- Policy Terms: Check for PHP and IOP pre-authorization requirements, IOP request forms co-pays, and deductibles.
- In-Network Providers: Costs are often lower when using facilities within the insurance network.
- Services covered: Some plans cover therapy, medication, and aftercare, while others may not.
Cost Analysis
- PHP Costs: Generally higher than IOP but lower than inpatient treatment.
- IOP Costs: Typically lower than PHP.
- Factors Affecting Cost: Program duration, location, and level of care.
- Financial Assistance: Many government plans offer financial assistance for mental health and addiction treatment. Check with your state government for any financial assistance plans.
Suggested Read: Blue Cross Blue Shield Therapy Coverage, Blue Cross Blue Shield Drug Rehab Coverage in NJ
IOP Vs. PHP Vs. OP: Which Treatment Is Best For You? The Final Verdict
All three recovery models are outpatient treatments. This means that they do not require a residential stay or involve sober living in rehab. The right treatment depends on your diagnosis. As a general rule of thumb:
- PHP is for high levels of addiction
- IOP is for moderate levels of addiction
- Outpatient treatment (OP) is for mild levels of addiction
Furthermore, PHP requires a greater time commitment. If you are looking for rehab after work or you are attending college alongside treatment, IOP may be a better option for you. But, in the end, we emphasize that you get the level of care according to your diagnosis rather than personal preference.
Getting the right care is the key to successful recovery. Call 844.445.2565 to connect with a certified specialist to discuss your recovery options.
Your Ease Matters! Access Onsite and Online PHP/Partial Care and IOP Treatment in New Jersey
Looking for insurance-covered Partial care and IOP rehab in New Jersey? Look no further! ChoicePoint offers insurance-covered IOP treatment in Bergen County. Our flexible treatments include:
Furthermore, our partial care/PHP programs are led by top-of-the-field doctors. Which means you get high-quality treatments that comply with ASAM guidelines.
We are here to serve you whenever you are ready! Call 844.445.2565 to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About PHP Therapy Vs IOP
How Long Do PHP and IOP Programs Last?
PHP and IOP usually last for:
- Typically 4-6 weeks, depending on progress for PHP
- Usually 8-12 weeks with flexibility for ongoing care for IOP
Are PHP and IOP Treatments Equally Effective?
Yes, both treatments are evidence-based and highly effective. However, effectiveness depends on individual needs and the severity of the condition.
Can I Work or Study While Attending Rehab?
Yes, ChoicePoint offers virtual IOP, evening IOP, and weekend group schedules to allow individuals to fulfill their social commitments with treatment.
How Do I Transition Between PHP, IOP, and OP?
Transitions are based on progress and recovery goals. You may need to get a referral from a doctor for your choice of preference. Otherwise, your addiction specialist will measure your progress and decide the best level of care for you.
Additional Resources
Sources
- Campbell, J., Gabrielli, W., Laster, L. J., & Liskow, B. I. (1997). Efficacy of outpatient intensive treatment for drug abuse. Journal of addictive diseases, 16(2), 15–25.
https://doi.org/10.1300/J069v16n02_02
Medical Disclaimer:
ChoicePoint aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use disorder and mental health issues. Our team of licensed medical professionals research, edit and review the content before publishing. However, this information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice please consult your physicians or ChoicePoint's qualified staff.