Picture this: a substance abuse treatment approach that provides the intensity and structure necessary to overcome addiction, all while allowing you to maintain everyday life commitments. That’s where partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) come in. These programs offer a unique blend of support, targeting not just substance abuse but also mental health challenges like anxiety and PTSD.
In a PHP, clients spend several hours a day at a specialized rehab facility, engaging in therapies and activities to address their substance abuse issues. Think individual therapy, support groups, and educational services — all within the framework of a structured routine.
This article answers the question what is a partial hospitalization program for substance abuse? Additionally, it explores how long PHPs last, discusses who stands to benefit from their hybrid structure, and compares them to other forms of addiction treatment.
Already know a partial hospitalization program for substance abuse is right for you? Contact La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center at 888.903.9898 to enroll.
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program for Substance Abuse?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) for substance abuse represents the highest level of outpatient rehabilitation. With its intensive, structured approach, a PHP helps treat substance abuse and addiction, as well as various mental health concerns like anxiety and PTSD.
In a PHP, clients typically spend several hours each day at a specialized rehab facility, engaging in a range of therapies and activities to address their substance abuse issues. Some examples include individual therapy, support groups, and life skills training.
Most clients enter a partial hospitalization program following detox and an intensive residential stay. In this way, a PHP is like a bridge between the structured environment of a residential program and the independence of an outpatient program.
As clients in a PHP acquire the essential coping skills and strategies needed to manage their triggers, they may transition to a less intensive program, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP). This transition allows them to connect with a support network when needed but also empowers them to rekindle their sense of autonomy.
How Long Does a Partial Hospitalization Program for Substance Abuse Last?
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) guidelines stipulate that partial hospitalization programs must offer a minimum of 20 hours of treatment per week. This translates to about four hours per day, five days a week.
Typically, partial hospitalization programs last approximately 3 to 4 weeks. However, this period can be adjusted depending on a client’s individual needs. After completing a PHP program, many clients step down to a less-intensive outpatient program, like an IOP.
Benefits of a Partial Hospitalization Program for Substance Abuse
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) offer a unique set of advantages for individuals seeking substance abuse treatment. These benefits make them a compelling choice for those who require a structured but flexible approach to their recovery journey.
Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of PHPs:
Flexible Schedule: PHPs allow clients to receive high levels of care without disrupting their routines. This flexibility is especially valuable for individuals who cannot afford to take an extended break from their daily lives, be it work or school.
Shorter Duration, Long-Term Tools: PHPs typically have a shorter duration compared to other forms of addiction recovery. In spite of this, they equip clients with essential tools for sustained sobriety.
Maximizing Insurance Benefits: PHPs are much more cost-effective when compared to residential rehab. This is largely due to the fact that clients sleep at home, something that keeps accommodation expenses down.
Transition Support: By helping individuals develop new routines and coping mechanisms, PHPs serve as a bridge between the highly structured environment of a residential program and everyday life.
Local Sober Community Integration: PHPs are especially valuable for individuals who wish to maintain a high level of treatment while staying close to home. They’re also well-suited for those who have finished residential treatment and seek to connect with the local sober community. This is particularly significant for individuals within the LGBTQ community who are looking to stay sober and engage socially beyond traditional bar and club scenes.
Who Benefits from a PHP?
Given the structured environment and minimum 20-hour-per-week commitment, a PHP is not right for everyone. Still, it can be a lifeline for particular clients. Here’s who stands to benefit the most from PHPs:
Previous Outpatient Relapses: Individuals who have experienced relapses during previous attempts at outpatient treatment may benefit from the more intensive support and structure offered by PHPs.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders: For those dealing with both substance abuse and co-occurring mental health issues, PHPs provide a comprehensive approach that addresses both aspects of their condition.
Stable, Drug-Free Home Environment: Individuals residing in a home environment can take full advantage of PHPs, as they can return home each day without threatening their recovery.
Supportive Social Network: Having the backing of friends and family committed to an individual’s recovery journey is crucial for success in a PHP. This support network enhances motivation and accountability.
Non-Suicidal: Individuals who are not at risk of self-harm and are medically stable can safely engage in PHPs.
Residential Treatment vs. Partial Hospitalization Program
Residential treatment, often recognized as a cornerstone of addiction rehabilitation, provides clients with round-the-clock care in a stable, supportive environment for a set duration (usually between 30 and 90 days).
This continuous, high-level support plays a pivotal role during the detox phase when withdrawal symptoms can be severe and could otherwise hinder the recovery process.
At the heart of residential treatment is an intensive therapeutic approach. Clients engage in daily therapy sessions, focusing on the emotional, behavioral, and mental aspects of addiction. Beyond individual and group therapy, residential programs frequently offer art and music therapy, yoga classes, and meditation sessions.
While you’ll find many similar services in a PHP, there are some differences to be aware of. For starters, partial hospitalization programs only schedule treatment sessions during the day, allowing clients to return home in the evenings. Furthermore, PHPs have a comparatively shorter duration, typically lasting just 3 to 4 weeks. Finally, PHPs are recognized for their cost-effectiveness, as the care is less intensive.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment vs. Partial Hospitalization Program
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) both fall under the umbrella of outpatient treatment options, which is why they are frequently confused. However, they provide distinct levels of support.
A PHP demands a substantial commitment, requiring that clients attend sessions for at least four hours a day, five days a week at a treatment center. In contrast, IOPs deliver similar therapeutic services but with a considerably lower time commitment, typically around two hours per day. Furthermore, IOPs offer the convenience of evening sessions or telehealth services, enhancing their accessibility.
Nevertheless, this heightened flexibility can be a double-edged sword. While it caters to individuals managing work, school, or family responsibilities, it also exposes clients to familiar environments and triggers, potentially increasing the risk of relapse.
La Fuente Hollywood’s Partial Hospitalization Program for Substance Abuse
Since La Fuente Hollywood’s founding in 2005, we’ve emerged as a national leader in LGBTQ-focused drug treatment and rehab. Our Hollywood, California facility offers everything from detox and residential treatment to outpatient services (PHPs and IOPs) and sober living.
Our partial hospitalization program lasts 6 hours per day, Monday through Friday. It includes a range of services including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), dual diagnosis support, life skills training, yoga, and meditation.
Along with our in-house services, we connect clients to the local sober community, something that empowers them to engage in service work and maintain their sobriety.
Learn how our partial hospitalization program can help you by calling 888.903.9898.
