What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
A partial hospitalization program is a short-term but highly focused form of treatment that bridges the gap between inpatient care and standard outpatient therapy. Clients spend most of the day at the center—usually five days a week—participating in therapy sessions, meeting with clinicians, and building skills that support recovery. In the evenings, they return home or to sober living.
This approach offers the benefit of intensive support without full hospitalization. It gives people access to medical and psychiatric oversight, individual and group therapy, and practical tools for managing life in recovery.
Understanding insurance for treatment isn’t always straightforward, and we do our best to make the process easier. Our team has experience working directly with insurance providers and can guide you through what your plan may cover.We Accept Most Major Insurance Plans
Who Benefits from PHP?
People with co-occurring disorders
Many individuals struggle with both addiction and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. PHPs are designed to treat both conditions together, ensuring that neither is overlooked.
Those early in recovery
People leaving detox or inpatient care often find PHP provides the structure they still need as they adjust to life outside of 24-hour treatment. The routine helps reinforce accountability and provides ongoing therapeutic support.
Individuals facing major life stressors
Loss, job changes, relationship struggles, or other significant life transitions can place people at risk for relapse. PHP gives them a stable environment to process these challenges and strengthen coping strategies.
Those who need more than outpatient therapy
For some, weekly counseling sessions are not enough. PHP offers several hours of care each day, giving individuals more time to work through underlying issues while still maintaining some independence.
How Long Does PHP Last?
The length of time someone spends in PHP depends on personal needs and progress. Many programs run for six to eight weeks, though some extend longer if additional support is needed. Factors such as co-occurring mental health conditions, medical concerns, or the severity of substance use may influence how long treatment continues.
Therapies in PHP
PHPs combine a variety of approaches, tailored to meet the needs of each participant. Examples may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps people recognize harmful thinking and replace it with healthier patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focuses on managing strong emotions, improving relationships, and practicing mindfulness.
- Trauma-informed therapy: Provides a safe space to address unresolved trauma that may contribute to addiction or mental health struggles.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): Encourages individuals to explore their reasons for change and build internal motivation.
- 12-Step facilitation and peer support: Introduces participants to recovery communities and group accountability.
- Holistic practices: Some programs integrate art, music, or mindfulness activities to help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
These therapies work together to give individuals both immediate tools for daily life and long-term strategies for sustaining recovery.
Taking the first step toward recovery isn’t easy. Begin with a free assessment to see the options available to you.
PHP vs. IOP
While both PHP and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) are outpatient services, PHP is more intensive. Clients in PHP spend much of the day at the center, usually five days a week. IOP typically involves shorter sessions several days per week, making it a better fit for those with greater stability or more outside responsibilities.
Choosing between the two depends on the level of support someone needs, their mental health status, and how much structure will best serve their recovery. A professional assessment helps determine the right fit.
