The right level of care is essential for recovery when dealing with a mental health or substance use disorder. For many individuals, a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers structure and support without requiring an overnight stay. Whether you’re preparing to begin a PHP or supporting someone who is, understanding what to expect can ease anxiety and set the stage for success.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A PHP is a highly structured, intensive treatment option for people who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy but don’t require 24/7 supervision in a hospital or residential facility.

PHPs are common to treat:

These programs typically run each day during the week, depending on individual needs and the program’s design. Participants return home once they have completed their daily treatment obligations, allowing them to practice coping skills in real-world settings.

Who Benefits from PHP?

Partial hospitalization is ideal for people who:

  • Need step-down care after completing an inpatient or residential program
  • Are struggling with symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, but are stable enough to live at home
  • Need more intensive care than weekly therapy can provide
  • Are at risk of hospitalization but want to avoid inpatient admission if safely possible

What to Expect During the Program

1. Comprehensive Assessment

Upon entering a PHP, you’ll undergo a complete clinical evaluation. An evaluation may include:

An assessment helps the treatment team develop a personalized care plan to address your unique conditions and needs.

2. Structured Daily Schedule

Each day in PHP follows a structured routine, which may include:

  • Individual therapy: One-on-one treatment sessions with a therapist to work on personal goals and emotional regulation
  • Group therapy: Sessions focused on shared experiences, skill-building, and peer support
  • Medication management: Psychiatric evaluations and adjustments to medications if needed
  • Psychoeducation: Classes that teach coping strategies, emotional awareness, and relapse prevention
  • Family therapy or support: Involving loved ones in the healing process when appropriate

3. Evidence-Based Therapies

PHPs often incorporate therapies such as:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
    Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
    Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
    Motivational Interviewing
    Trauma-Informed Care

The goal is to help participants better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and develop tools to manage them.

What Happens After PHP?

Discharge planning is a key part of the program. Before leaving, you’ll work with your care team to establish a step-down plan, like an Intensive Outpatient Program or traditional outpatient therapy. Follow-up appointments will be arranged to help you easily transition into the next phase of treatment. You’ll also create a relapse prevention or wellness plan and connect with community resources and support groups. The goal of treatment is to ensure continuity of care and maintain the progress made during PHP.

Benefits of Partial Hospitalization

Partial hospitalization programs offer care with flexibility. This approach is helpful for patients who need help but do not request full hospitalization. Patients receive daily treatment while still maintaining some degree of their everyday lives. Learning to balance treatment and recovery while maintaining personal and professional responsibilities is an essential skill that develops in real time during PHP treatment.

Is Partial Hospitalization Right for You?

Partial Hospitalization Programs offer a powerful blend of structure, therapy, and support, making them a crucial step in many people’s recovery journeys. If you or someone you love is considering PHP, know that it’s a proactive and empowering choice. Healing is not one-size-fits-all. PHP is designed to meet people where they are, and help them move forward with strength, skills, and support. Contact us at Comprehensive Wellness Centers if you or a loved one would benefit from PHP or any of our treatment programs.