When it comes to a disease as severe and life-threatening as addiction, it is absolutely critical that there is effective care available for those who are impacted. But, not everyone with an addiction experiences it in the same way. With the state’s drug overdose rate on the rise, it is imperative that Tennessee offers a variety of adiction treatment options. Many individuals looking to recover from active addiction can benefit from IOP and PHP treatment programs.
What is a PHP?
A PHP, or partial hospitalization programming, is a step-down from residential treatment. Those who participate in a PHP do not reside in a hospital for the duration of this program. Instead, they are allowed to live at home or in a sober residence but required to go to the treatment facility every day for care. This type of addiction treatment program is designed to help support those who are fresh out of residential treatment, or who have an addiction to drugs and alcohol that cannot be effectively treated with lower levels of care. Clients will spend the majority of their day at the facility, participating in a structured program involving evidence-based therapies and medication management (if clinically indicated). Similar to other levels of addiction treatment, PHPs can last anywhere from 6-12 weeks
What is an IOP?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is an addiction treatment that falls in the middle of the spectrum of care. It is neither the most nor least intense level of care. It is ideal for those who do not require residential care but who also need more structure than a standard outpatient program. Additionally, an IOP can be a step down from a PHP.
So, what exactly happens in an IOP? Individuals who participate in an IOP can expect to continue to live at home or in a sober living residence for the duration of their care. They will attend therapy sessions at the treatment facility several times per week. Depending on the specific IOP, clients may participate in a day program or evening program, where they spend a few hours at a time at the facility for their care. This allows clients the ability to continue to uphold responsibilities in their everyday lives, such as going to work and caring for their children. Most IOPs last anywhere from 6-12 weeks. During that time, clients participate in evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, group counseling, and individual psychotherapy.
Why and When You Need an IOP/PHP?
Determining if you can benefit from an IOP or PHP is a decision that is not always the easiest to make, especially if you are in a place where you are in need of help. IOP and PHP programs are able to help provide structured care in a manner that does not bring one’s life to a complete halt. Instead, IOP and PHP programs can help develop a new, healthier life.
Why would you need an IOP or PHP program? Consider the following:
- You have already completed a higher level of care, but can benefit from stepping down into less intense levels of care as you phase out of treatment.
- You do not require detoxification services or a residential treatment program.
- You are abusing mind-altering substances in ways that are negatively impacting your life.
- You can benefit from therapy sessions daily or multiple times a week.
The best way to determine if you need an IOP or PHP is to speak to your healthcare provider for more information. Based on your specific needs, one program may be recommended over another.
What to Look for in a IOP/PHP Treatment Provider
When looking to find the right provider for you, there are a few things you will want to consider. Not only do you want to ensure that your treatment provider is licensed and qualified to provide services, but you also want to be sure that you are attending a program that is rooted in treating substance use disorders effectively. Therefore your treatment provider should:
- Offer family counseling
- Provide different levels of care (or have referrals to additional outpatient programs)
- Utilize evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and group counseling
- Be able to help provide you with the skills needed to maintain your sobriety outside of treatment
Feel free to reach out and speak to an IOP or PHP directly. Ask any questions you have and be sure that you feel comfortable about what to expect prior to beginning your program.
Addiction Treatment in Knoxville, TN
Attempting to live with an addiction to drugs or alcohol can be extremely difficult, especially if you are not being appropriately treated. At Tennessee Valley Recovery in Knoxville, our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care so that you can let go of what is holding you back and begin living a happier, healthier life.
If you are ready to get the help you need and start feeling better today, call us or visit our contact form right now.