Partial Hospitalization Programs: How to Choose the Right Treatment

Are you struggling with your mental health but unsure about committing to full-time inpatient care? Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) may offer the solution you need. At Archway Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment through our PHP and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs). Our one-on-one and group therapy sessions offer personalized care in a supportive environment. Given that 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, it’s crucial to explore effective treatment options. Discover how our partial hospitalization program can be your path to improved mental well-being. Take the step toward reclaiming your life and health—contact us at (888) 488-4103.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?

An Intensive Outpatient Option

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is an intensive, outpatient mental health treatment option that provides a level of care higher than traditional therapy, but lower than inpatient hospitalization. It serves as a middle ground for individuals who need more support than weekly appointments but do not require around-the-clock supervision. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, highlighting the need for accessible treatment options like PHPs.

Comprehensive, Structured Care

PHPs offer a structured treatment environment with comprehensive services tailored to each patient’s needs. Typical programs involve 4-8 hours of daily treatment, 5-7 days per week, consisting of individual therapy, group sessions, medication management, and other evidence-based therapies. This intensive format allows for focused, immersive treatment while still offering the flexibility to return home each evening.

Cost-Effective Alternative

In addition to their clinical benefits, PHPs can be a cost-effective alternative to inpatient hospitalization. While costs vary, PHPs are generally less expensive than residential treatment, making this level of intensive care more accessible. Many PHP programs work with most insurance companies as well. You can verify your insurance at Archway Behavioral Health here.

What Conditions are Treated in a PHP?

Common Mental Health Disorders

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) provide intensive outpatient treatment for individuals struggling with severe psychiatric disorders. These programs are designed to address a wide range of mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)..

Customized Treatment Plans

The treatment approach in a PHP is highly individualized, tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances. A comprehensive assessment is conducted to develop a personalized care plan, which may incorporate various evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

How Long Does Partial Hospitalization Last?

Average Duration

Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are designed to provide intensive mental health treatment without requiring an overnight stay. The duration of a PHP can vary based on the individual’s specific needs and progress, but typically lasts anywhere from 2-6 weeks. However, some individuals may require longer treatment, while others may transition to a lower level of care after a shorter period.

Factors Influencing Length

The length of time someone spends in a PHP depends on several factors, including:

  • The severity of their mental health condition and symptoms
  • Their response to the intensive treatment provided
  • Their overall progress toward recovery goals

Those with more severe or complex conditions may require a longer stay, while those with milder symptoms or who respond well to treatment may transition out sooner.

Typical Program Structure

PHPs typically involve 4-8 hours of structured treatment per day, up to 5 days per week. This intensive level of care is often recommended for several weeks to several months, acting as an alternative to inpatient hospitalization or a step-down after being discharged from an inpatient facility.

Transitioning to Ongoing Care

For many, a PHP serves as an intermediate level of care between inpatient treatment and less intensive outpatient services like an intensive outpatient program (IOP). The goal is to stabilize the individual’s condition through comprehensive therapy, then transition them to ongoing outpatient care that supports their long-term recovery.

What to Expect in a Partial Hospitalization Program?

An Intensive Treatment Approach

PHPs typically operate from Monday to Friday, offering several hours of daily treatment before patients return home in the evenings. This approach allows for a structured routine while maintaining connections within the community.

Tailored Therapy and Support

Throughout the program, patients receive a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to their specific needs. This may include:

  • Individual therapy sessions with a licensed therapist
  • Group therapy to develop coping strategies and connect with peers
  • Family therapy to improve communication and support systems
  • Specialized treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Interpersonal Psychotherapy

Additionally, a multidisciplinary team consisting of psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists collaborates to provide comprehensive care. This team conducts psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and develops an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

Who Can Benefit from a Partial Hospitalization Program?

For Those Requiring Intensive Treatment

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is designed for individuals with serious mental health conditions who require a higher level of care than traditional outpatient therapy. PHPs are suitable for those needing crisis stabilization, symptom management, or a smooth transition from inpatient care – without requiring 24/7 supervision.

PHPs cater to various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders and those requiring depression therapy as well as trauma therapy. Patients must commit to attending the program daily for several hours, typically 4-8 hours per day, up to 5 days a week.

A Comprehensive and Structured Approach

This comprehensive approach empowers patients to be active participants in their recovery journey, aligning with the principles of the “recovery movement” in mental health. Moreover, PHPs provide a supportive environment where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, partial hospitalization programs offer a vital bridge between inpatient care and traditional outpatient therapy. By providing intensive, structured support through evidence-based treatments like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and trauma-focused therapies, these programs can significantly improve your mental health outcomes. Remember, you’re not alone in your struggles. Whether you’re battling depression, anxiety, or trauma, Archway Behavioral Health’s comprehensive approach, including individual and group therapy sessions, can provide the tools and support you need. Consider exploring their Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) as a flexible option to receive care while maintaining your daily responsibilities. Your mental health journey is unique, and with the right support, recovery is possible. Take the step toward reclaiming your life and health—contact us at (888) 488-4103