IOP & PHP (Intensive Outpatient / Partial Hospitalization)
Structured programs with multiple sessions per week (often groups + individual) designed to offer more support, stability, and momentum when symptoms feel too heavy for weekly therapy alone.
There’s no single “right” therapy—many people benefit from a blend, or a sequence, over time. What matters most is a pace that feels steady and supportive.
Who typically provides this?
Delivered by multidisciplinary clinical teams (therapists + prescribers + support staff), typically in a program setting.
What sessions can look like
- Multiple weekly groups (skills, process, psychoeducation)
- Often includes individual therapy and medication support
- Stabilization, structure, and steady monitoring with a clinical team
Often helpful for
- Significant depression/anxiety
- Safety concerns
- Functional impairment
- Step-down from inpatient
Good fit if…
- Weekly therapy isn’t enough right now
- You want structure and support multiple days/week
- You want a bridge toward steadier functioning
If this feels hard right now, that’s okay
Sometimes the best next step is choosing the right pace and support level first—then building from there.
- Symptoms are mild and weekly outpatient support is meeting your needs
If you want help choosing a steady starting point, the quiz can narrow the field fast.
Questions you can bring to a first session
You don’t have to ask all of these—pick the ones that would help you feel confident and supported.
- What does a typical session look like with you?
- How will we set goals—and how will we know if things are improving?
- If something feels too fast or too intense, how do you adjust pace and support?
- How do you tailor this approach to my needs, identity, and preferences?
Safety notes+
- When safety is a concern, these programs can be a supportive bridge with higher structure and monitoring.
Educational only. Not medical advice. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.