Choosing a php program for co-occurring disorders can feel overwhelming. When you or a loved one needs structured outpatient care for both addiction and mental health conditions, understanding your options is key. Partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and traditional outpatient therapy each offer different levels of support, treatment intensity, and scheduling. In this guide, you will learn how these levels of care differ, how to assess co-occurring needs, navigate insurance options, prepare for admission, and verify your readiness. By the end, you will be equipped to choose a program that fits your unique situation and take confident steps toward lasting recovery.
Compare levels of care
Different levels of outpatient treatment provide varying degrees of structure, clinical oversight, and intensity. The table below summarizes key features of each program type:
| Program type | ASAM level | Days per week | Hours per day | Typical therapies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Partial hospitalization | 2.5 | 3–7 | 6–8 | Individual, group, family therapy; medication management |
| Intensive outpatient | 2.1 | 3–5 | ~3 | Group counseling, evidence-based therapies, case management |
| Traditional outpatient | 1.0 | 1–2 | 1–2 | Individual therapy, support groups, psychoeducation |
Partial hospitalization program
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) sits between inpatient care and standard outpatient treatment. Typically ranked as level 2.5 on the ASAM continuum, PHPs run 6 to 8 hours per day, 3 to 7 days each week [1]. You return home each evening while receiving a full day of intensive therapy, medical oversight, and relapse-prevention planning.
Key benefits of PHP include:
- Structured environment with consistent clinical contact
- Access to group therapy, family sessions, and psychiatric evaluation
- Cost effectiveness compared to inpatient hospitalization
If you need a PHP that works with your insurer, many facilities offer specialized options—see PHP program that accepts Anthem or a partial hospitalization program that accepts UHC for details on coverage.
Intensive outpatient program
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides 9 or more hours of weekly treatment, often broken into three-hour sessions, 3 to 5 days per week. Compass Health Center notes that their IOP runs half days for both daytime and evening options, allowing you to balance therapy with work or school commitments [2]. IOPs are classified as level 2.1 on the ASAM continuum, offering a middle ground for those who do not require full-day care.
Typical IOP offerings include:
- Group counseling sessions with peers facing similar challenges
- Evidence-based therapies such as CBT and DBT
- Case management and skill-building workshops
You can explore options like iop program that takes BCBS or addiction iop with aftercare support to find a program aligned with your goals.
Traditional outpatient therapy
For those with mild to moderate symptoms or strong support at home, traditional outpatient therapy may be sufficient. This level typically involves one or two individual or group sessions per week, focusing on coping strategies, relapse prevention, and mental health education. It is the most flexible and least intensive option, often covered by many plans—see outpatient therapy that accepts Cigna or outpatient rehab that accepts Aetna.
Assess co-occurring disorders
Treating addiction alongside mental health conditions—often called dual diagnosis—requires specialized assessment and integrated care.
Common dual diagnosis pairings
Studies suggest nearly half of individuals with a substance use disorder have a coexisting mental health issue [3]. Common pairings include:
- Depression and alcohol use disorder
- Anxiety or PTSD and opioid dependence
- Bipolar disorder and stimulant addiction
Understanding these patterns helps ensure your treatment plan addresses both aspects of your diagnosis.
Screening and assessment
A thorough clinical evaluation is the first step. You may complete standardized tools such as the PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, or AUDIT for alcohol use. Licensed clinicians conduct interviews to clarify diagnosis, assess risk factors, and develop an individualized plan. Accurate screening sets the foundation for effective dual diagnosis treatment—consider outpatient treatment for dual diagnosis if you need ongoing support.
Evaluate program features
When comparing programs, look beyond hours and days to the types of therapies, support services, and continuity of care offered.
Treatment intensity and schedule
Match program intensity with your clinical needs and daily responsibilities:
- PHP: 6–8 hours daily for high-acuity cases or step-down from inpatient care
- IOP: ~3 hours per session, flexible scheduling for work or school
- Outpatient: 1–2 hours weekly for maintenance or early intervention
Therapeutic approaches and support
A robust program integrates multiple evidence-based therapies:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Motivational interviewing (MI) and contingency management (CM)
- Experiential therapies such as EMDR, yoga, or meditation
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) under medical supervision
Dual diagnosis php treatment programs emphasize seamless coordination between psychiatric care and addiction counseling to address both conditions concurrently.
Aftercare and relapse prevention
Successful recovery extends beyond the formal program. Look for:
- Personalized aftercare plans with recommendations for ongoing outpatient therapy
- Relapse prevention workshops and peer support groups
- Transitional housing or sober living options—sober living step down from IOP program can guide you in finding the right setting
A program with relapse prevention support ensures you maintain gains and navigate challenges after discharge.
Navigate insurance options
Outpatient programs vary widely in cost and coverage. Understanding your benefits can reduce financial stress.
Plans and coverage details
Most major insurers cover PHP, IOP, and outpatient therapy under behavioral health benefits. Common plans include:
- Anthem: see PHP program that accepts Anthem for covered facilities
- UnitedHealthcare: review partial hospitalization program that accepts UHC for network locations
- BCBS: find IOP options with an iop program that takes BCBS
- Cigna and Aetna: outpatient therapy that accepts Cigna or outpatient rehab that accepts Aetna
Coverage often depends on medical necessity, level of care, and documented diagnosis.
Verifying your benefits
To confirm coverage:
- Contact your insurer to identify in-network providers and obtain authorization requirements
- Ask your chosen facility about your plan’s copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums
- Use SAMHSA’s FindTreatment.gov or the facility’s insurance navigator for guidance
Verifying benefits before admission prevents unexpected costs and streamlines your entry into care.
Prepare for admission
Knowing the intake process helps you transition smoothly into treatment.
Referral and intake process
Most programs accept self-referrals, physician referrals, or recommendations from outpatient therapists. The intake process typically includes:
- Initial phone screening to confirm eligibility
- Submission of medical records, insurance information, and consent forms
- Scheduling a comprehensive clinical evaluation
Developing your treatment plan
After assessment, your care team collaborates with you to create an individualized plan. This plan outlines:
- Treatment goals and expected length of stay
- Scheduled therapies, group activities, and educational workshops
- Medication management protocols and psychiatric follow-up
Tailored treatment programs ensure your plan aligns with personal needs and recovery objectives.
Verify readiness and support
Ensuring you’re ready and supported can improve engagement and outcomes.
Personal readiness factors
Reflect on:
- Acknowledgment of challenges and motivation for change
- Ability to commit time and energy to treatment
- Safe home environment and transportation to sessions
Being honest about readiness sets you up for success in a structured outpatient program for veterans or civilian settings alike.
Building your support network
Recovery thrives on connection. Consider:
- Involving family or close friends in family therapy sessions
- Joining peer support groups—explore an outpatient program with peer support groups
- Connecting with recovery coaches or sponsors for ongoing encouragement
A strong support network reinforces accountability and nurtures resilience.
Make your decision
Armed with knowledge, you can confidently choose the right program for your co-occurring needs.
Questions to ask providers
Before enrolling, ask:
- Are you accredited by The Joint Commission or CARF?
- What is your experience treating dual diagnosis clients?
- Which evidence-based therapies and medication management services do you offer?
- How do you handle relapse prevention and aftercare planning?
- Can you connect me with alumni or peer mentors for firsthand insight?
Next steps to enroll
Once you’ve selected a program:
- Schedule a tour or virtual consultation to meet staff and view the facility
- Complete any remaining paperwork and secure any required authorizations
- Confirm your start date and arrange transportation or lodging if needed
- Prepare personal items, set goals, and inform your support network of your plan
Choosing a partial hospitalization program or one of the other outpatient levels of care is a major step toward lasting recovery. With the right information, insurance verification, and personal readiness, you can embark on a tailored treatment path that addresses both your mental health and addiction needs. If you’re ready to begin, reach out today to take the first step toward a healthier tomorrow.
