How To Know If Your Child Needs PHP or IOP

When your child is struggling with an eating disorder or mental health challenges, finding the right treatment can be overwhelming. Two common treatment options that help children and adolescents recover are Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP). Both provide structured care, but they differ in the level of support and the time commitment involved. Understanding which program is appropriate for your child’s needs requires assessing their specific situation, symptoms, and challenges.

Here’s how you can determine whether your child might benefit from PHP or IOP.

Understanding PHP and IOP

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers intensive, day-long treatment but does not require overnight stays. It’s often referred to as a “day treatment program” because children attend several hours a day (usually 5-7 days a week). PHP is designed for children and adolescents who need a higher level of care due to significant symptoms but are stable enough to manage some independence.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a step down from PHP and typically involves fewer hours of treatment per week. Children in IOP attend therapy sessions and groups but return home in the evenings. IOP is best for children who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy but are not yet in need of the full immersion that PHP provides.

IOP or PHP?

When it comes to determining if your child needs IOP or PHP level of care, there are several key factors to consider in collaboration with a mental health or eating disorder professional:

The Severity of Symptoms

One of the key factors in determining whether your child needs PHP or IOP is the severity of their symptoms. If your child is experiencing severe emotional distress, uncontrollable behaviors related to their eating disorder, or has difficulty managing daily activities, PHP might be necessary. PHP is designed for children who require more frequent monitoring and therapeutic intervention due to the intensity of their symptoms.

On the other hand, IOP is appropriate for children whose symptoms are significant but not immediately life-threatening. If your child’s condition is not as severe, they may benefit from IOP, where they can receive structured therapy while still managing some responsibilities at home, like school or extracurricular activities.

Safety Concerns

If your child is engaging in behaviors that put them at risk, such as severe self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or significant eating disorder behaviors (like restricting food intake or bingeing), they may require the intensive support offered by PHP. PHP provides more hands-on care and monitoring, helping ensure your child’s safety while working on their recovery.

If your child’s behaviors are concerning but not immediately dangerous, IOP might be appropriate, offering structured therapy in an outpatient setting where they can continue working on coping skills while being monitored.

Your Child’s Ability to Function Outside of Therapy

Consider how your child is functioning outside of therapy. If they’re struggling to maintain relationships, attend school, or complete basic self-care tasks, PHP may be a better fit. The day-long, immersive environment of PHP can help restore a sense of stability and structure that children in more chaotic states often need.

For children who can function relatively well outside of structured care, but still need additional therapeutic support, IOP can offer a great balance of support and flexibility.

Family Involvement and Support Needs

Both PHP and IOP include family involvement, but the intensity may vary. If your child’s condition is severe, PHP can provide more intensive family support and education, ensuring that everyone involved understands how best to support your child’s recovery. IOP, while still offering family therapy, typically has less frequent family involvement.

Duration and Flexibility

PHP is a treatment option that lasts anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on your child’s progress. IOP, while less intensive, can offer flexibility, especially if your child is maintaining a school schedule.

Ultimately, the decision between PHP and IOP depends on the severity of your child’s eating disorder or mental health challenges, their ability to function independently, and the level of safety and support they require. Working closely with a treatment team, including therapists, psychiatrists, and medical professionals, can help you make the most informed choice about which program best suits your child’s needs.

Are you or your child in need of support?

At LiftWell, we offer distinct levels of care that are designed to support you. Our team of compassionate and highly trained clinicians and staff are here to support you in your recovery. 

Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) are highly structured and comprehensive programs that focus on holistic healing and recovery from mental health and eating disorders.

Our admissions team is here to lend a listening ear and find a program that is the best match for you. Connect with us today at (203) 908-5603.

Written by Allison Cooke, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and MSW Student