Partial Hospitalization Program guide
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is an intensive outpatient treatment option for individuals struggling with substance use disorders, alcohol abuse, or mental health issues. PHPs provide a structured and comprehensive approach to addiction and mental health treatment.
PHPs offer a higher level of care than standard outpatient programs. This type of treatment consists of intensive daily therapy sessions and activities that help patients learn the skills they need to manage their mental health or substance use condition. Patients usually spend seven hours a day in treatment for five days a week.
The Difference Between PHP and an Intensive Outpatient Program
Distinguishing between a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) is crucial in understanding the spectrum of addiction and mental health treatment options. Both PHP and IOP offer intensive levels of care while allowing patients to reside at home, but they differ in several key aspects.
A PHP, as previously discussed, provides an intensive form of treatment without the requirement of overnight or full-time stays in the facility. Patients in a PHP attend treatment sessions for several hours each day, usually five days a week. It serves individuals with more acute needs, such as those with severe substance use disorders or mental health issues.
In contrast, an IOP offers a less intensive treatment option. IOPs typically involve fewer weekly hours of therapy compared to PHPs, allowing individuals to continue their daily routines, including work or school. While IOPs still provide essential group and individual therapy, they cater to individuals with a lower risk level or those who have made progress in their recovery journey.

When are Partial Hospitalization Programs Necessary?
PHPs are typically recommended to individuals who require a higher level of care than regular outpatient programs but do not need the 24/7 supervision and support provided by residential treatment centers. Here are some situations in which PHPs are recommended:
High Risk and Acute Needs: When patients exhibit signs of potential harm to themselves or others due to substance misuse, or mental health concerns like suicidal thoughts, a PHP can provide intensive support and monitoring.
Complex Dual Diagnosis: PHPs are suitable for individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders and mental health disorders. These programs offer integrated treatment addressing both conditions simultaneously. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides more information on the complex interaction of mental illness and addiction.
Medication Management: When individuals require close supervision and management of medications, such as for withdrawal management or psychiatric medications, PHPs have medical and psychiatric services, similar to a hospital outpatient department, to provide appropriate care.
Failed Outpatient Treatment: If standard outpatient treatment has not been effective in addressing an individual’s needs or maintaining their recovery, transitioning to a PHP may be necessary to prevent further deterioration.
Intensive Support for Early Recovery: Some individuals may benefit from a PHP during the early stages of recovery when cravings and relapse risk are high. PHPs offer a structured environment to build coping skills and resilience.
Family Involvement: PHPs often incorporate family therapy sessions, making them necessary when family support and involvement are integral to the patient’s recovery process.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and/or mental health, do not hesitate to reach out for help. We understand how overwhelming it can be to make the decision to enter a treatment program, and we’re here to answer any questions you may have. Call (888) 720-8239 today to have your questions answered with no obligation to enter treatment.
What To Expect During Partial Hospitalization

During a partial hospitalization program (PHP), individuals can expect a structured and intensive level of care in a treatment facility setting. PHPs are designed to address a range of needs, including substance use disorder treatment and mental health disorder treatment, following the guidelines set by organizations like the American Psychiatric Association and accredited by bodies like the Joint Commission.
A typical day in a PHP involves various therapeutic activities, including group therapy, individual therapy, and possibly family therapy sessions. These sessions are facilitated by a treatment team consisting of addiction medicine and psychiatric professionals. Medication management is also a crucial component, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary medications to support their recovery.
Patients attend the program several hours a day allowing them to return home in the evenings. The length of a PHP program can vary, often lasting a few weeks to a few months, depending on the individual’s needs and progress.
Certain requirements, such as a commitment to abstinence from substances, may be imposed to participate in a PHP. The cost of the program can vary, but it’s often covered by insurance, including Medicare. Families can expect to be involved in the treatment process through family therapy sessions, as their support is vital to the patient’s recovery.
Benefits of Entering a Partial Hospitalization Program

PHPs provide a structured and therapeutic environment that helps individuals establish a daily routine focused on recovery. This structured support provides a strong foundation for those transitioning from a residential treatment center or facing acute mental health challenges in addition to their addiction. Some benefits of a PHP include:
Proven Effectiveness
PHPs employ evidence-based treatment options and adhere to industry standards recommended by organizations like the APA and accredited by bodies like the Joint Commission. This ensures that individuals receive the highest quality of care.
Gradual Transition
For those who have completed residential treatment, PHPs can serve as a transitional step before returning fully to standard outpatient care. It helps individuals adapt to a less structured environment while still benefiting from intensive care.
Reduced Relapse Risk
The intensive focus on coping skills and relapse prevention in PHPs helps individuals develop the necessary tools to maintain sobriety and manage mental health symptoms effectively.
Individual and Group Therapy
Individual therapy offers personalized, private support, focusing on an individual’s unique addiction-related challenges and emotional exploration. It promotes accountability and emotional growth.
Group therapy, on the other hand, fosters a sense of connection and peer encouragement, providing opportunities for social learning, interpersonal skill development, and shared accountability among participants.
Both forms of therapy are essential components of addiction recovery, addressing diverse aspects of the recovery journey, from individual introspection to building a supportive community.

Overcome Substance Abuse with a Partial Hospitalization Program Today
At Sober Centers of America, we pride ourselves on having a seasoned team of rehab specialists dedicated to guiding you toward the ideal partial hospitalization program tailored to your unique needs. Leveraging our expertise comes at no cost to you. Our primary mission is to provide our clients with seamless access to top-tier recovery resources. We can assist you in understanding insurance coverage and crafting a financial strategy to facilitate a smooth transition into a rehab program. Contact us to discuss your treatment goals and get started on your recovery journey.
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