You’re managing both mental health challenges and substance use concerns, and a php program for co-occurring disorders can offer the structured support you need while still living at home. Partial hospitalization programs deliver intensive, daily treatment—often six to eight hours per day, three to seven days per week—within a supportive environment. By addressing both conditions simultaneously, PHPs bridge the gap between full hospitalization and traditional outpatient therapy.
In this guide, you’ll learn how PHPs fit into the continuum of care, see how they differ from other program types, explore their core benefits, assess your own readiness, understand the admission steps, and choose the right PHP for your recovery journey. Let’s get started.
Understand PHP programs
Definition of PHP
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) provides an intermediate level of care for individuals who need more support than standard outpatient therapy but do not require 24-hour supervision. In a typical PHP you’ll:
- Attend structured therapy and medical sessions for six to eight hours per day
- Participate five to seven days per week
- Live at home or in a supportive residence
PHPs integrate evidence-based therapies—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing and medication-assisted treatment—to address substance use and mental health symptoms together under clinical supervision.
Role in the care continuum
PHPs sit at level 2.5 on the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) continuum, midway between residential/inpatient treatment (level 3) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs, level 2.1) American Addiction Centers. This position allows you to:
- Step down from inpatient care once you’re medically stable
- Receive more support than you would in an IOP
- Practice new coping skills in real-world settings
Overall, PHPs aim to stabilize acute symptoms, prevent relapse, and empower you to take an active role in your own recovery.
Compare program types
Choosing the right level of care starts with understanding how outpatient therapy, IOPs and PHPs differ. The table below highlights key distinctions.
| Component | Outpatient therapy | Intensive outpatient (IOP) | Partial hospitalization (PHP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setting | Community clinics or private offices | Clinic-based group and individual | Clinic-based, day program |
| Typical hours per week | 1–4 | 9–15 | 30–40 |
| Days per week | 1–3 | 3–5 | 5–7 |
| Supervision level | Low | Moderate | High |
| Therapy modalities | Individual, group | Group, individual, skills training | Multi-modal including DBT, CBT, MAT |
| 24-hour medical staff | No | No | Yes |
| Ideal for | Low acuity, stable recovery | Moderate symptoms or relapse risk | Acute symptoms, co-occurring disorders |
Outpatient therapy overview
Outpatient therapy offers one-on-one counseling or group sessions while you carry on with daily responsibilities. It works well if you have a stable living environment and fewer acute symptoms. You can explore options like outpatient therapy that accepts Cigna to find a program that fits your insurance plan.
Intensive outpatient overview
Intensive outpatient programs provide more structure than standard counseling, with three to five group or individual sessions totaling at least nine hours per week. IOPs focus on skill building and relapse prevention. Learn about local options such as intensive outpatient program near me or iop for mental health and substance abuse.
Partial hospitalization overview
PHPs deliver six to eight hours of daily treatment in a clinic setting, combining therapy, medical management and peer support. You’ll return home each evening, giving you the chance to practice coping strategies in real life. For specialized care, explore dual diagnosis php treatment.
Explore program benefits
Structured support network
In a PHP you join a supportive environment where peers share similar experiences. Your daily schedule may include:
- Group therapy sessions to foster camaraderie and accountability
- Individual counseling to address personal triggers
- Family therapy to rebuild trust and communication
This consistent routine creates a safety net that reduces isolation and builds resilience.
Integrated co-occurring treatment
Up to 50% of individuals with addiction have at least one undiagnosed mental health issue, according to the National Institute of Mental Health Massachusetts Center for Addiction. PHPs treat both conditions simultaneously through coordinated care, ensuring that neither disorder is neglected. Techniques like DBT and CBT help you manage emotion regulation and thought patterns, promoting comprehensive care.
Maintain daily routines
Because you return home after treatment each day, you can:
- Keep up with work, school or family responsibilities
- Practice coping skills in your own environment
- Receive support from your existing social network
This balance between treatment intensity and real-world practice often leads to smoother transitions and sustained progress.
Cost-effective care
PHPs involve less overhead than residential programs, making them a more affordable option for many families. While costs vary based on individual needs and insurance coverage, partial hospitalization usually costs less than inpatient treatment but more than traditional outpatient care American Addiction Centers.
Assess your readiness
Signs you may need PHP
You might consider a partial hospitalization program if you experience:
- Frequent mood swings or panic attacks
- Escalating substance use despite outpatient efforts
- Difficulty performing daily tasks due to symptoms
- Relapse after less intensive treatment
Criteria for enrollment
PHPs typically require:
- A primary diagnosis of a mental health or substance use disorder
- Clinical indication for structured daily care but no need for 24-hour medical supervision
- Ability to live stably at home or in a supportive environment
- Motivation to engage in an individualized treatment plan
If you’re unsure, start with a clinical screening at a program specializing in outpatient treatment for dual diagnosis.
Navigate admission process
Insurance verification and coverage
Before admission, verify your benefits and out-of-pocket costs. Some plans cover PHP at higher levels:
- Anthem members can search for a php program that accepts Anthem
- UnitedHealthcare clients may prefer a partial hospitalization program that accepts UHC
Contact your insurer to confirm coverage for psychiatric evaluations, group therapy, medication management and any co-payments.
Initial clinical assessment
On your first day you’ll undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a psychiatric clinician. This may include:
- Mental health and substance use history
- Medical examination
- Risk assessment for self-harm or withdrawal complications
This assessment forms the basis for your personalized care plan.
Personalized treatment planning
Following evaluation, you and your clinical team develop an individualized plan that outlines:
- Therapy modalities and frequency
- Medication-assisted treatment options
- Goals for symptom reduction and relapse prevention
- Family involvement and aftercare recommendations
Your plan guides each day of treatment and is adjusted based on your progress.
Choose the right PHP
Compare insurance options
When evaluating programs, consider both coverage and network status. Ask:
- Which PHP providers are in-network?
- What prior authorization is required?
- Are there limits on days or services?
You can also review our guide to the best PHP program for addiction recovery for more insights.
Evaluate program features
Look for programs offering:
- Evidence-based therapy like CBT, DBT and motivational interviewing
- Medication-assisted treatment to manage cravings
- Family sessions and peer support groups
- Relapse prevention education and aftercare planning
Programs with robust holistic care can address nutrition, exercise and mindfulness alongside clinical treatment.
Ask key questions
Before committing, talk with admissions staff and ask:
- How do you integrate mental health and substance use care?
- What is the staff-to-client ratio?
- Do you offer a PHP program with relapse prevention support?
- How is progress measured and communicated to me?
Thorough answers help ensure your needs will be met.
Take next steps
Find nearby programs
Begin your search by calling local clinics or using online directories. You might explore intensive outpatient program near me as a first step, then step up to a PHP when you need more structure.
Contact resources and referrals
- Reach out to your primary care provider or mental health clinician for a referral
- Call your insurance customer service to get in-network provider lists
- Consult national helplines such as SAMHSA’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Speak with family or friends for support during the transition
By taking these steps you’ll be well on your way to engaging in a comprehensive PHP program for co-occurring disorders, laying the foundation for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
