Inpatient treatment offers one of the most intensive and comprehensive forms of addiction treatment. However, it comes with some trade-offs, such as cost and time commitment, that many people cannot make. Less intense but still high-quality forms of treatment in an outpatient setting offer more flexibility and affordability.
Two of the most common high-care types of outpatient treatment are intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization. Both of these can be great ways to receive addiction treatment while still being able to live independently and uphold outside responsibilities. Intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization are somewhat similar. They differ enough that it is worth exploring what makes them unique so you understand which program may better fit your recovery needs.
Contact Rockland Recovery at 855.732.4842 to learn about a high-quality day intensive outpatient program.
Intensive Outpatient Program vs. Partial Hospitalization
Comparing an intensive outpatient program vs. partial hospitalization begins with understanding the details of each option and how they are similar in some ways. For starters, both options are best for people who do not need medically-supervised detox. Neither of these options involves a residential stay, which is necessary for people who need to detox with constant supervision.
Treatment methods used across each program may also overlap quite a bit. Whether you attend an intensive outpatient program or partial hospitalization, you can expect to experience:
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy
- Relapse prevention
- Aftercare planning
- Life skills development
The sections below explore more information comparing a partial hospitalization program vs. intensive outpatient.
1. Intensive Outpatient Program
First up is the intensive outpatient program, commonly shortened to IOP. One factor differentiating an intensive outpatient program from partial hospitalization is the time you spend in treatment. An IOP demands just a few hours on a few separate days each week from participants. IOPs are often a step down from residential rehab and can sometimes be used as a step down from partial hospitalization because they offer a bit more independence and freedom. IOPs still provide evidence-based treatment, access to support groups, and a network of caring medical professionals to help you stay on track during recovery.
2. Partial Hospitalization
Partial hospitalization programs are a slightly higher level of care compared to IOPs. Where an IOP has people attending treatment for just a couple of hours a few days per week, partial hospitalization looks more like a full-time job. Partial hospitalization participants may attend treatment from 8 am to 3 pm, five days per week. The extended treatment day means people often have meals between different treatment sessions. There is still no overnight stay. Yet the hours people spend in partial hospitalization are often twice as much as during an IOP.
Intensive Outpatient Program vs. Partial Hospitalization: Which Is Right for You?
With some basic knowledge of each option, you may still wonder which program is right for you. Cost, accessibility, and time commitment will naturally play a role in deciding on a partial hospitalization program vs. intensive outpatient. Try to prioritize the environment and level of care most likely to lead to comprehensive recovery. That could entail some sacrifice if you need to attend partial hospitalization.
Both of these options are less constraining compared to residential treatment. But it’s essential to be realistic. It may not be possible to continue working full-time if you attend a partial hospitalization program. Even if you go with the lesser time commitment of outpatient programming, it may still conflict with your family responsibilities. Be honest with your doctors about your current situation to make the most informed choice about which type of treatment to pursue.
Explore Outpatient Treatment Options at Rockland Recovery
It’s helpful to compare intensive outpatient programs vs. partial hospitalization. But addiction treatment is made to be flexible. Starting with one type of treatment doesn’t mean you can’t adjust your treatment and switch to another style over time.
Explore the array of outpatient treatment options available when you call 855.732.4842.
