There is no one-size-fits-all treatment
One of the most important things to understand about addiction treatment is that it exists on a spectrum of care. The right level of care for any individual depends on the severity of the addiction, medical history, co-occurring mental health conditions, social support, and other factors.
The ASAM continuum of care
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines the standard levels of care used throughout California and the United States:
Level 1 — Outpatient Treatment
Typically 1-9 hours per week of structured programming. Appropriate for individuals with stable living situations, strong social support, and mild-to-moderate addiction severity. The patient lives at home and attends sessions during the day or evening.
Level 2 — Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP)
IOP involves 9-20 hours per week of programming; PHP involves 20+ hours. These programs provide more structure while still allowing patients to live at home or in a sober living environment. They are often the appropriate step-down after residential treatment.
Level 3 — Residential Treatment
The patient lives at the treatment facility, typically for 30, 60, or 90 days. This is the most structured non-hospital setting and is appropriate for individuals with moderate-to-severe addiction, unstable living environments, or those who have not responded to lower levels of care.
Level 4 — Medically Managed Intensive Inpatient (Detox/Hospital)
24-hour medically supervised care, typically in a hospital or dedicated detox facility. This is the appropriate starting point for anyone with medical complications, severe physical dependence, or risk of dangerous withdrawal.
How Empathix determines the right level of care
When you contact us, our intake process gathers information about your situation, substance use history, medical needs, and insurance. We then match you with a facility that provides the medically appropriate level of care — and that your insurance will cover at the strongest possible benefit level.
We don't send everyone to the same place. We find the right place for you.