Deciding to seek treatment for drug or alcohol addiction is one of the most courageous steps a person can take. But once that decision is made, another important choice arises: Which level of care is right for you—Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) or Inpatient Rehab? Both are highly effective treatment options, but each is designed to meet different clinical and lifestyle needs.
At River Rocks Recovery, we offer both Inpatient Rehab and our specialized Partial Hospitalization Program in Ohio, tailored for those battling opioid addiction, methamphetamine abuse, and other substance use disorders. Our expert clinical team guides you toward the level of care that offers the best chance of long-term recovery.
Understanding the Levels of Addiction Treatment
Substance use disorders vary in severity and complexity, which is why addiction treatment works best when delivered as part of a continuum of care. The major levels include:
- Inpatient Rehab (Residential Treatment) – 24/7 supervised live-in treatment
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Full-day treatment with non-residential flexibility
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – Part-time therapy, 3–5 days/week
- Outpatient Program (OP) – Maintenance therapy 1–2 days/week
Each level is designed to meet the client where they are in their recovery journey. Let’s take a closer look at how PHP compares to inpatient rehab, and how to decide which is right for you.
What Is Inpatient Rehab?
Inpatient or residential rehab is a high-intensity program where clients live at the treatment facility for a period ranging from 30 to 90 days or longer. It provides a completely immersive environment, separating individuals from outside triggers, responsibilities, and distractions so they can focus solely on recovery.
Core Components of Inpatient Rehab:
- 24/7 medical and clinical support
- Onsite detox and withdrawal management
- Structured daily routines including therapy, group work, fitness, and education
- Psychiatric support and medication management
- Peer support in a residential setting
- Ideal for individuals with dual diagnoses or high relapse risk
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A PHP is a step-down level of care from inpatient rehab. It offers many of the same therapies, clinical services, and daily structure, but without requiring overnight stays. Clients attend treatment for 4–6 hours a day, 5–6 days a week, and return home or to a sober living residence in the evening.
PHP at River Rocks Recovery Includes:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) when needed
- Relapse prevention and coping skills education
- Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders
- Life skills training and reintegration support
Our PHP is an ideal option for clients who are stable enough to manage their own housing and transportation, but still need daily clinical care and supervision.
Comparing PHP and Inpatient Rehab Side-by-Side
| Feature | Inpatient Rehab | Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) |
|---|---|---|
| Living Arrangement | Live-in, 24/7 supervision | Return home or to sober living nightly |
| Medical Monitoring | Constant, round-the-clock | Provided during treatment hours |
| Daily Therapy Hours | Full day (7–10 hrs) | Full day (4–6 hrs) |
| Ideal For | Severe addiction, detox, dual diagnosis | Moderate addiction, step-down care, stable living |
| Flexibility | Low – fully immersive | Moderate – allows work/family responsibilities |
| Cost (Typically) | Higher due to housing and meals | More affordable, covered by most insurance plans |
| Transition Option | Often first stage of treatment | Often second stage of care after inpatient rehab |
How to Choose Between PHP and Inpatient Rehab
When deciding which program is right for you, consider the following:
Inpatient Rehab Might Be Right If You:
- Are newly in recovery and have never sought treatment before
- Have a long history of substance use or multiple relapses
- Need medically supervised detoxification
- Live in an unstable, unsafe, or triggering environment
- Have co-occurring psychiatric conditions that require full-time care
PHP Might Be Right If You:
- Have completed inpatient rehab and need continued structure
- Are physically and mentally stable but need intensive support
- Have a supportive home or sober living environment
- Are ready to reintegrate with work, school, or family life
- Need flexibility but aren’t ready for outpatient care
At River Rocks Recovery, we help each client complete a full assessment so the right level of care is matched to their specific needs.
How to Transition Between Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment
Successful recovery is rarely linear—it involves stepping up or stepping down based on your progress. At River Rocks Recovery, we offer a seamless path through our Addiction Treatment Program in Ohio, guiding you through each level of care with continuity and clinical support.
Typical Transition Pathway:
- Medical Detox (if needed)
Stabilize physically and prepare for therapeutic work. - Inpatient Rehab
Intensive care for severe addiction or high-risk clients. - Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Step down to daily clinical support while gaining independence. - Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Begin rebuilding life responsibilities while continuing therapy. - Outpatient Program (OP)
Ongoing check-ins, therapy, and relapse prevention. - Aftercare & Alumni Support
Lifetime connection to a recovery community and support system.
This full spectrum of care ensures that clients receive the right support at the right time, making recovery more sustainable long-term.
Why River Rocks Recovery Is the Right Choice
As a leading Addiction Treatment Center in Ohio, River Rocks Recovery provides:
- Customized treatment plans for opioid, meth, alcohol, and polysubstance addiction
- Comprehensive levels of care, including Inpatient, PHP, IOP, and OP
- Integrated mental health and medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Licensed clinicians, therapists, and medical professionals
- Supportive staff, welcoming environment, and family involvement
Whether you need the immersive structure of inpatient care or the balanced flexibility of PHP, we’ll help you choose the path that leads to real, lasting recovery.
Conclusion
Both Inpatient Rehab and Partial Hospitalization Programs are essential components of effective addiction treatment. The right choice depends on your medical stability, personal responsibilities, relapse history, and emotional needs.
At River Rocks Recovery, we believe in meeting you where you are and helping you move forward—step by step, with compassion, structure, and expert support. Call us today at 888.905.6281 for a confidential assessment and to explore our full range of Addiction Treatment Programs in Ohio, including PHP, IOP, OP, and dual diagnosis treatment. You don’t have to navigate this alone—let us help you find your way to lasting freedom.
FAQ PHP vs. Inpatient Rehab
What is the main difference between PHP and inpatient rehab?
The biggest difference is where you live during treatment.
-
Inpatient rehab requires you to stay at the facility full-time for 24/7 care.
-
PHP allows you to return home or to a sober living environment each night after attending treatment during the day.
Who should consider inpatient rehab?
Inpatient rehab is ideal for individuals who:
-
Need medical detox
-
Have a history of relapse or severe addiction
-
Don’t have a safe, sober home environment
-
Struggle with co-occurring mental health issues
Who is PHP best suited for?
PHP is best for individuals who:
-
Are medically and psychiatrically stable
-
Have completed inpatient rehab and need a step-down level of care
-
Can live safely at home or in a sober living setting
-
Require intensive therapy but not overnight monitoring
Is the therapy provided in PHP the same as inpatient rehab?
Yes. Both levels of care provide evidence-based therapy, including:
-
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
-
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
-
Trauma-informed care
-
Group therapy, family therapy, and relapse prevention training
The difference is the setting and intensity, not the quality or type of treatment.
How long does each program last?
-
Inpatient rehab typically lasts 30–90 days, depending on individual needs.
-
PHP programs range from 2–6 weeks, with flexibility for transition to IOP or OP care afterward.
Is PHP covered by insurance?
Yes, many insurance providers cover Partial Hospitalization Programs. River Rocks Recovery works with most major insurance plans. Call 888.905.6281 for a free benefits verification.
Can I work or go to school while in PHP?
Possibly. PHP is a daytime commitment (typically 4–6 hours/day), which may allow for part-time work or evening classes. For more flexibility, stepping down to IOP may be a better fit.
