If you have a substance use disorder (SUD), it is important to understand which treatment level of care you need at different times throughout your recovery journey. Read on to learn specifics about what a partial hospitalization program (PHP) entails and whether it could be right for you.
What Is PHP for Addiction?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is often called “day treatment.” It is an outpatient addiction treatment option where patients attend drug or alcohol rehab services during the day and return home at night. PHP maintains the intensity of inpatient care without 24/7 monitoring.
When Should I Attend PHP?
PHP is a logical next step after residential treatment. If you have recently gone through medical detox for opioid, stimulant, depressant or hallucinogen abuse, PHP might also be recommended. Depending on your personal circumstances, you may be given the green light after evaluation to begin PHP as a stand-alone treatment option without prior inpatient services.
How Do I Know If I Need PHP?
The following checklist may help you determine if a PHP at Discovery Addiction Services could be the right treatment option for you:
- You were recently discharged from residential treatment and need a structured, supportive transition back into daily life.
- You don’t need 24/7 supervision for safety and sobriety.
- You have been working through a SUD with weekly outpatient therapy, but you feel like you need more help to manage your symptoms.
- You feel an uptick in cravings, triggers, anxiety or depression.
- You feel the need to use substances to cope with daily stressors, but you don’t want to relapse.
- You are struggling with daily responsibilities and fulfilling basic needs without substance use.
- Your home environment is a stable, supportive, safe and substance-free place to be when you’re not in treatment.
How Long Is PHP?
The length of PHP depends on individual progress and goals set in each patient’s personalized treatment plan. On average, patients will participate in various forms of therapy for 6 to 8 hours each day, 5 to 6 days a week, for 4 to 6 weeks. Patients can plan to attend 20 to 30 hours of PHP per week.
What Happens at PHP?
Discovery Addiction Services uses research-backed, evidence-based treatment methods in the development of our PHP. Throughout the week you will focus on the following:
- Daily accountability
- Setting goals
- Regulating your emotions
- Overcoming triggers
- Curbing cravings
- Preventing relapse
- Managing medications
- Trauma recovery
- Plans for self-care
- Developing coping strategies
You can expect to attend individual, group and family therapy sessions that use techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and motivational interviewing (MI). Here’s a brief overview of each form of therapy:
- CBT: Helps you understand how your thoughts and feelings affect your behavior.
- DBT: Allows you how to figure out how to regulate your emotions and cope with daily life challenges without using substances.
- ACT: This is when you accept circumstances as they areand committo positive personal change.
- MI: You’ll answer thought-provoking questions that help you come to your own conclusions during therapy sessions.
Individual therapy
You’ll have one-on-one therapy sessions once or twice a week to focus on developing coping skills that help you replace substance use with healthy alternatives. Naming emotions and learning how to sit with, process and deal with them helps patients avoid turning to substances as a “quick fix.” Working with your therapist, you will uncover your personal triggers that lead you to consume substances. You’ll build a toolbelt of resources you can pull out when cravings hit and devise plans to overcome them.
Group therapy
Attending regular group meetings encourages community. Having the support of like-minded individuals helps patients feel more secure and confident. Group therapy is also an opportunity to put skills into practice for building healthy relationships. Plus, spending time in the presence of other sober individuals can help you avoid loneliness and the potential relapse that can result from self-isolation.
Family therapy
Family therapy helps members of your inner circle understand how to communicate in a supportive manner. Families also learn how to create a positive sober environment without enabling substance use. Many times, family dynamics propel substance abuse. Giving you a dedicated time and space to discuss solutions for improvement with family members can offer relief.
Help Is Always Available
Discovery Addiction Services is here for you. If you would like more information on addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are available 24/7 to provide guidance on all addiction treatment levels of care and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
A PHP is a structured, intensive mental‑health treatment program where you attend therapy and clinical services during the day but return home at night. It’s more support than weekly therapy but less restrictive than inpatient hospitalization.
Who typically benefits from PHP?
People who need more support than outpatient therapy can provide—such as those experiencing worsening symptoms, difficulty functioning day‑to‑day, or needing a safe, structured environment—often benefit from PHP.
Is PHP appropriate if I’m in crisis?
PHP can help stabilize serious symptoms, but it’s not for immediate danger or emergencies. If someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, inpatient care or emergency services is the safer option.
How do I know if PHP is the right level of care?
PHP may be right for you if:
- Symptoms are interfering with work, school, or relationships
- You need daily structure and accountability
- You want intensive support without overnight hospitalization
- You’re stepping down from inpatient care but still need stability
Can I work or attend school during PHP?
Usually not full‑time. PHP is a significant time commitment, and most people pause work or school temporarily to focus on recovery.
How long does PHP last?
Most programs run 2–6 weeks, depending on your needs, progress, and clinical recommendations.
Is PHP covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover PHP, but coverage varies. It’s worth checking with your provider or the program’s intake team.
What happens after PHP?
People typically transition to:
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Weekly therapy
- Medication management
- Community support groups