Partial Hospitalization (PHP)

Discover how Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) provide intensive treatment while allowing patients to return home each night. Learn about PHP services, who they benefit, and finding the right program.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) represent a critical level of care in the behavioral health treatment continuum. These structured programs provide intensive treatment comparable to inpatient hospitalization but allow participants to return home each evening. PHPs serve as either a direct entry point to treatment or a step-down option from more restrictive inpatient settings, offering a balance of intensive care and personal independence.


A PHP typically requires attendance 5-7 days per week for 4-8 hours daily, making it the most intensive form of outpatient treatment available [1]. This level of care provides comprehensive therapeutic services in a highly structured environment while enabling patients to practice recovery skills in real-world settings each evening and weekend.


Where PHP Fits in the Levels of Care

The behavioral health treatment continuum includes multiple levels of care, arranged from most to least intensive according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Criteria [2]:


PHPs occupy a crucial middle ground, providing intensive services without the 24-hour supervision of residential or inpatient care [3]. This positioning makes PHP an ideal option for those who need structured, daily support but do not require around-the-clock monitoring or can benefit from spending evenings in their home environment.


Key Components of Partial Hospitalization Programs

Partial hospitalization programs deliver comprehensive care through multiple therapeutic modalities. While specific elements vary between facilities, most PHPs include:


Structured Daily Schedule

The cornerstone of PHP treatment is a highly structured daily program. Participants typically arrive in the morning and participate in sequential therapeutic activities throughout the day, often following a consistent weekly schedule. This structure helps clients develop healthy routines and provides a dependable framework for recovery.


Individual Therapy

Regular one-on-one sessions with licensed therapists form an essential component of PHP treatment. Individual therapy sessions allow for personalized goal-setting, in-depth exploration of personal challenges, and tailored therapeutic interventions based on each client's unique needs and progress.


Group Therapy

Daily group therapy sessions offer opportunities for peer support, shared learning, and interpersonal growth. These groups may focus on specific topics such as:

  • Coping skills development

  • Emotional regulation

  • Interpersonal effectiveness

  • Substance use education

  • Trauma processing

  • Relapse prevention planning


Psychiatric Services

PHP programs typically include regular psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Participants meet with psychiatrists who can prescribe, adjust, and monitor medications to address symptoms of mental health conditions or manage withdrawal symptoms in addiction recovery.


Family Involvement

Many PHPs incorporate family therapy or education components, recognizing that family support plays a crucial role in sustainable recovery. These services help improve communication, restore trust, and educate family members about how to support their loved one's healing journey.


Life Skills Training

Practical skill development is often emphasized in PHP settings, helping participants build capabilities that support long-term recovery. This may include:

  • Stress management techniques

  • Nutritional guidance

  • Financial literacy

  • Communication skills

  • Conflict resolution

  • Time management

  • Employment readiness


Care Coordination

PHP treatment teams typically provide comprehensive care coordination, connecting clients with community resources, arranging for continuing care, and communicating with other healthcare providers to ensure integrated treatment.


Who Benefits from Partial Hospitalization Programs

PHP treatment is particularly suitable for certain populations and clinical presentations:

Individuals Stepping Down from Inpatient Care

For those transitioning from 24-hour inpatient or residential treatment, PHP offers a supportive environment to practice new skills while maintaining access to intensive professional support. This graduated approach helps prevent relapse and builds confidence in managing recovery independently.


Those Needing More Support Than Standard Outpatient Care

When traditional outpatient therapy (1-2 sessions weekly) proves insufficient to manage symptoms or maintain recovery, PHP provides a higher level of care without requiring full hospitalization. This intensification can help prevent further deterioration and avoid the need for inpatient admission.


People with Safe, Stable Housing

Since PHP patients return home each evening, having a safe, substance-free living environment is crucial for success. Some individuals may benefit from structured sober living arrangements during PHP treatment. Those with stable housing and adequate support at home often thrive in the PHP model of care.


Individuals with Severe Symptoms but No Immediate Danger

PHP is appropriate for those experiencing significant impairment from mental health or substance use disorders who do not pose an immediate risk to themselves or others. This includes people with:

  • Acute depression or anxiety that interferes with daily functioning

  • Post-traumatic stress symptoms that disrupt quality of life

  • Active substance use disorders requiring structure and support for sobriety

  • Eating disorders requiring meal support and monitoring without 24-hour supervision

  • Bipolar disorder with mood instability but without acute mania or psychosis

  • Complex co-occurring disorders requiring integrated treatment


Those with Strong Motivation and Basic Self-Care Abilities

PHP success requires participants to maintain basic self-care and safety during evening hours without professional supervision. Individuals must demonstrate the ability to follow their treatment plan independently during non-program hours and remain committed to the intensive schedule.


Common Conditions Treated in PHP Settings

Partial hospitalization programs effectively address a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including:

Mental Health Disorders


Substance Use Disorders

According to SAMHSA guidelines, PHPs are effective for treating various substance use disorders including [1]:


Co-occurring Disorders

Many PHPs specialize in treating dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders, providing integrated care for individuals experiencing both mental health and substance use challenges simultaneously.


Benefits of Choosing PHP Treatment

Partial hospitalization offers several distinct advantages as a treatment approach:

Intensive Care Without 24-Hour Hospitalization

PHP provides clinical services comparable to inpatient programs while allowing patients to maintain connections with their home environment, potentially easing the transition back to independent living.


Cost-Effective Alternative

For many individuals, PHP represents a more affordable option than residential treatment while still providing comprehensive care. Many insurance plans cover PHP services, including Medicare [4], recognizing their value in preventing more costly hospitalizations.


Real-World Recovery Practice

The daily return home allows patients to immediately practice coping skills in their natural environment, facilitating more effective skill transfer and sustainable recovery.


Preservation of Family Connections

By returning home each evening, patients can maintain important family relationships and responsibilities, which often supports long-term recovery outcomes.


Comprehensive Treatment Team Access

Unlike standard outpatient care, PHPs typically provide access to a multidisciplinary team including therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, and case managers all working collaboratively on the recovery process.


Flexible Duration Based on Progress

PHP length of stay typically ranges from 2-6 weeks but can be adjusted based on individual progress and needs, allowing for personalized treatment pacing.


Clinical Effectiveness and Outcomes

Research demonstrates the effectiveness of PHP treatment across various mental health conditions. Studies have found that PHPs provide superior or equivalent recovery-based care with greater patient satisfaction compared to inpatient treatment, and patients and families were found to be more satisfied with care one year after discharge [5].


Research on PHP effectiveness has shown:

  • Significant reduction in psychiatric hospitalization rates

  • Improved attendance and treatment engagement

  • Enhanced social role functioning compared to inpatient programs

  • Effective treatment for anxiety disorders with significant reduction in fear symptoms and general emotional distress


A comprehensive study of virtual PHP services during COVID-19 found that telehealth delivery was associated with higher attendance rates (89.5% vs. 84.5%), lower hospitalization rates (8.9% vs. 16.5%), and 74.3% of patients reporting improvement in their condition [6].


Challenges and Considerations for PHP Treatment

While PHP offers significant benefits, certain challenges should be considered:

Time Commitment

The intensive schedule (typically 20-35 hours weekly) may be difficult to balance with full-time employment or education, though some programs offer evening PHP options.


Transportation Requirements

Daily attendance necessitates reliable transportation to and from the treatment facility, which may present logistical challenges for some individuals.


Home Environment Factors

Success in PHP requires a supportive, stable home environment free from substances and acute stressors that might undermine treatment progress. Some individuals may benefit from sober living arrangements during treatment.


Insurance Considerations

While many insurance plans cover PHP services under Medicare and other insurance providers [4], coverage varies significantly, and patients should verify benefits before enrollment.


Finding the Right PHP Program

When seeking a partial hospitalization program, consider these factors to find the most appropriate fit:

Specialization

Look for programs with expertise in treating your specific condition or population (e.g., trauma-focused, adolescent-specific, or dual diagnosis programs).


Accreditation and Licensing

Ensure the facility meets industry standards through appropriate accreditation and employs licensed professionals.


Treatment Approaches

Research the therapeutic modalities utilized and confirm they align with your preferences and needs. Common evidence-based approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based interventions.


Location and Accessibility

Consider proximity to your home, transportation options, and program hours when evaluating logistical feasibility.


Continuing Care Planning

Inquire about the program's approach to discharge planning and connections to step-down services like intensive outpatient programs or aftercare services to ensure continuity of care.


Taking the Next Step Toward Recovery

If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health or addiction challenges that require intensive support, a partial hospitalization program may provide the structure and comprehensive care needed for healing. Many individuals find that PHP offers the ideal balance of professional support and personal independence to build a foundation for lasting recovery.


Our directory features numerous qualified providers offering partial hospitalization programs throughout Southern California. These facilities vary in their specializations, treatment approaches, and insurance acceptance, allowing you to find the program that best meets your unique needs.


Remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're seeking treatment for yourself or supporting a loved one, exploring PHP options represents an important step toward reclaiming health and wellbeing.


Find PHP Treatment Near You

Take the first step today by exploring our directory of treatment providers who offer partial hospitalization programs. Our comprehensive listings can help you identify facilities that match your specific needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Many accept multiple insurance plans and can guide you through the admissions process.


Use our search tool to find PHP services in your area and begin your journey toward healing and recovery with the support of qualified professionals in a structured therapeutic environment.


References

[1] American Addiction Centers. (2025). Partial Hospitalization Programs. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/outpatient-treatment/partial-hospitalization-programs

[2] American Society of Addiction Medicine. (2023). About the ASAM Criteria. https://www.asam.org/asam-criteria/about-the-asam-criteria

[3] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2006). Chapter 3. Intensive Outpatient Treatment and the Continuum of Care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64088/

[4] Medicare.gov. Mental health care (partial hospitalization). https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/mental-health-care-partial-hospitalization

[5] Khawaja, I. S., & Westermeyer, J. J. (2010). Providing Crisis-oriented and Recovery-based Treatment in Partial Hospitalization Programs. PMC Free Article. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2848466/

[6] Granello, D. H., et al. (2022). Positive Outcomes in a Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35660313/

[7] GoodRx Health. (2024). What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)? https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/mental-health/partial-hospitalization-program