Whether you're a concerned parent, caregiver, or individual seeking support, understanding differences between partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), outpatient therapy, and residential/inpatient programs can empower you to make informed decisions about the best course of action for your journey towards wellness. Aerie Healthcare offers adolescents and their families both PHP and IOP levels of care.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A PHP offers comprehensive, structured treatment for adolescents who require intensive therapeutic support but do not need round-the-clock supervision. For example, a parent might choose a PHP for their adolescent who struggles with severe depression and self-harm tendencies but is otherwise functioning at home. The structured environment of a PHP provides the necessary support and therapy to address these challenges while allowing the adolescent to return home in the evenings. A PHP is often viewed as a step-down program after attending a residential/inpatient program.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An IOP offers flexibility while still providing robust therapeutic support. This level of care may be suitable for an adolescent who is struggling with mental health issues but is committed to their well being and wants to continue attending school. With the flexibility of an IOP, the adolescent can receive the necessary support and therapy while still maintaining their daily responsibilities and gradually transitioning back to independent living. An IOP is often utilized as a step down program from a PHP.

Residential/Inpatient Program

Residential/inpatient programs offer intensive, 24/7 care in a structured and supportive environment. A parent might choose a residential inpatient program for their adolescent who is experiencing severe suicidal ideation and requires immediate intervention and stabilization. The round-the-clock monitoring and support provided by a residential program ensures the adolescent's safety and well-being during this critical time of assessment and stabilization.

Outpatient Therapy

Outpatient therapy provides personalized counseling sessions for adolescents on a less intensive basis. This option is ideal for parents whose adolescents are managing their symptoms well but could benefit from ongoing support and therapy. Outpatient therapy might be appropriate for an adolescent who is navigating anxiety or depression, but is still able to function effectively in their daily life.

Choosing the Right Level of Care

When considering adolescent treatment levels of care, it's essential to assess the individual's needs, preferences, and level of functioning. Factors such as the severity of symptoms, safety concerns, support system, and treatment goals play a crucial role in determining the appropriate level of care. Consulting with a mental health professional can provide valuable insight and guidance in this decision-making process.

Whether it's the immediate support of residential/inpatient care, the structured environment of PHP, the flexibility of IOP, or the personalized approach of outpatient therapy, there is a level of care suited to every individual's unique needs. If you think that PHP or IOP levels of care may be appropriate for your child, please contact Aerie Healthcare.