Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) are an alternative to traditional inpatient treatment programs. While partial hospitalization programs are a step down from round-the-clock inpatient care, they tend to be a little more rigorous than a general outpatient program.
Individuals who are involved in a partial hospitalization program will typically spend their day at the hospital engaging in various therapeutic activities, then return home for the night. Partial hospitalization programs are meant to help individuals maintain themselves at a functional level, as well as prevent relapse or full hospitalization. 1
Partial hospitalization programs often vary in length depending on an individual’s specific needs. However, PHPs are only for a limited time and typically last anywhere from two to four weeks. Partial hospitalization programs are often effective on their own, but they can also be used as a transition into further treatment depending on a person’s needs.
Partial hospitalization program rehabs are an effective treatment program for addiction. Partial inpatient treatment consists of a number of therapeutic activities such as behavioral therapy, individual counseling, group therapy, and art therapy. Medication may also play a role in partial hospitalization for mental health.
Behavioral therapy is often used in partial inpatient treatment and the treatment of substance use disorders. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy are all methods used in addiction treatment. Behavioral therapy gives individuals the tools that they need to make sustained changes in their lives in regard to their behavior. 2
One-on-one counseling is a major component of addiction-focused partial hospitalization program rehabs. Individual counseling can help patients gain a better understanding of their addictions as well as provide guidance through recovery.
Partial inpatient group psychotherapy is another key component of partial hospitalization programs for mental health. Group therapy is commonly used in partial hospitalization programs and provides individuals with both education and a support system. Group therapy reduces feelings of isolation and can also give individuals the opportunity to witness the recovery of others. 3
Art therapy has been used in the treatment of substance abuse disorders since the 1950s. Approximately 36.8% of treatment centers offer art therapy in their substance abuse program description. Art therapy provides a nonverbal and creative way for individuals to express themselves and process emotions. 4
For a number of individuals, transportation can prove to be a barrier to receiving treatment. Because of this potential hindrance, many partial hospitalization programs offer transportation to and from their facility. Additionally, some insurance companies will provide coverage for transportation costs for medical appointments.
It is common for partial hospitalization program rehabs to provide transportation to and from the facility. Getting in direct contact with a PHP can help you determine if this is an option that is available to you.
In the event that the partial hospitalization program you are interested in does not offer transportation, some insurance providers will cover rides for medical appointments or reimbursement for transportation costs. Coverage can vary depending on the provider, so it is important to reach out to your insurance agent to see if this is an option for you.
Partial inpatient treatment is based on the belief that individuals will achieve the most success if they can remain in their communities, work, and family relationships while they are doing internal work. However, there are some criteria that an individual must meet in order to be eligible for a PHP versus inpatient treatment.
Addiction can often lead to difficulty functioning at work, school, or in other areas of life. Increased difficulty in these areas can be a sign that you may need a break and may need to attend a partial hospitalization program for mental health.
Partial hospitalization programs were designed to cater to the needs of individuals that are not at immediate risk of harming themselves or others. This is one of the biggest partial hospitalization program requirements. Individuals who are likely to relapse or harm themselves or others should pursue a more supervised form of treatment, such as inpatient care.
Another partial hospitalization program requirement is that individuals need to be medically stable. Individuals with untreated or unmanaged conditions may better benefit from a more intensive program, such as inpatient treatment. Addiction partial hospitalization programs are part of aftercare following detox and are best done after an individual has undergone the detoxification process.
Having adequate support in the home environment is key to both the success of the partial hospitalization program as well as in sustained recovery.
Partial inpatient treatment is not appropriate for everyone. Certain individuals may be better suited for traditional inpatient treatment depending on their circumstances. Individuals who have been victims of abuse or trauma, who have family members who are currently battling addiction, with , or individuals who have already experienced relapse are less likely to benefit from a partial hospitalization program.
Individuals who have been victims of abuse or trauma may benefit more from an intensive inpatient stay. Partial hospitalization programs can be used for PTSD, but because trauma manifests in different ways for different people, it may be beneficial for individuals to seek out a more intensive treatment
Progress made at addiction partial hospitalization programs can easily be undermined by the presence of family members who are also abusing substances. This is especially true if the individual pursuing recovery is living with family members who are in active addiction, as the environment plays a major role in relapse prevention. Individuals with triggering home environments may find more success in residential treatment programs.
Addiction and substance use disorders are often accompanied by other mental health disorders. Individuals who suffer from bipolar mania or disorders with psychotic symptoms are better suited to more intensive treatment programs. 5
For PHP to work, individuals must want to stay sober and be willing to commit to the program. Individuals who have experienced relapse before are at higher risk of relapsing again and may benefit from a program with higher levels of supervision.
At Genesis Recovery, we take a holistic and holistic approach to treatment: treating the mind, spirit, and body. Genesis Recovery offers top-of-the-line treatment and aftercare in order to best prevent relapse. We believe that the opposite of addiction is connection, and we strive to increase an individual’s connection to others, their inner self, and the world as a whole. Get connected with us and begin your journey to recovery today.