What To Know About Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

Understanding the world of mental health and substance abuse treatment can be overwhelming, especially when trying to find the right program for yourself or a loved one. One option that often comes up in discussions is Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs). Let’s explore what PHPs are, how they differ from other treatment options and why they might be the right choice for you or your loved one.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A Partial Hospitalization Program is a structured mental health or substance abuse treatment program where patients receive intensive therapy during the day but return home or to a supportive living environment at night. PHPs are designed to offer a higher level of care than regular outpatient treatment while allowing patients to maintain some aspects of their daily lives outside of a hospital setting.

Key features of PHPs

• Structured Schedule: Patients typically attend therapy sessions and activities for several hours a day, five days a week.
• Comprehensive Care: Treatment often includes individual therapy, group therapy, medication management and skill-building sessions.
• Flexibility: Unlike inpatient programs, PHPs allow patients to spend evenings and weekends at home, fostering a balance between treatment and personal life.

Partial Hospitalization vs. Inpatient Programs

One of the main questions people have is how PHPs differ from inpatient programs. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which type of care is most suitable.

Inpatient programs

Inpatient programs provide round-the-clock care in a hospital or residential facility. Patients stay full-time at the facility, which can be beneficial for those needing constant supervision or a break from their daily environment to focus on recovery.

Partial Hospitalization Programs

PHPs, on the other hand, offer a more flexible approach. They provide intensive care similar to inpatient programs but allow patients to return home at the end of the day. This can be ideal for individuals who have a stable home environment and supportive family or friends.

Choosing between PHPs and inpatient care

The choice between PHP and inpatient care often depends on the severity of the patient’s condition, their support system at home and their personal preferences. Those who require more structure and supervision may benefit from inpatient care, while individuals with a supportive home environment might find PHPs more suitable.

Benefits of Partial Hospitalization Programs

PHPs offer several advantages for individuals seeking treatment for mental health or substance abuse issues.

Comprehensive treatment

Patients receive a wide range of therapeutic services, including individual and group therapy, medication management and educational workshops. This comprehensive approach addresses various aspects of a patient’s condition.

Balancing and treatment and daily life

PHPs provide intensive care while allowing patients to return home each day, helping them apply what they learn in therapy to their daily lives. This balance can enhance recovery by integrating treatment with real-world experiences.

Cost-effective care

Compared to inpatient programs, PHPs can be more cost-effective. They offer a high level of care without the expenses associated with overnight stays in a hospital or residential facility.

Partial Hospitalization Program Requirements

To participate in a PHP, patients usually need to meet specific criteria.

Assessment

Patients undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine if a PHP is appropriate for their condition. This assessment evaluates the severity of symptoms, the need for structured support and the patient’s ability to function outside a hospital setting.

Treatment plan

A personalized treatment plan is developed to meet the patient’s unique needs. This plan outlines the types of therapy and services the patient will receive during their time in the program.

Commitment

Patients must be committed to attending sessions regularly and actively participating in their treatment. PHPs require a significant time commitment, often involving multiple hours of therapy each day.

How to Start a Partial Hospitalization Program

If you or a loved one is considering a PHP, here’s how to get started:

1. Seek a professional evaluation

Begin by consulting with a mental health or substance abuse professional who can evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate level of care.

2. Research PHP providers

Look for reputable PHP providers in your area. Consider factors such as the types of therapy offered, staff credentials and patient reviews when choosing a program.

3. Understand the costs

Check with your insurance provider to understand what services are covered under your plan. Many PHPs work with insurance companies to make treatment more affordable.

4. Prepare for the program

Once you’ve selected a program, prepare yourself or your loved one for the commitment involved. Arrange for any necessary support at home, such as family or friends who can assist with daily responsibilities. Partial Hospitalization Programs offer a valuable treatment option for individuals struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues. Bellaire Behavioral Health strives to provide a welcoming environment for all of our programs. Whether you’re enrolling in inpatient mental health treatment or outpatient services, the staff and curriculum at Bellaire can help set you up for success. If you have any questions about enrollment, you can call us at 1-833-618-0017, or visit our FAQ site.

Behavioral Hospital of Bellaire

Behavioral Hospital of Bellaire is a facility that provides specialized behavioral health services focused on helping adults learn the skills necessary to live successful meaningful lives. We offer acute mental health treatment in our inpatient psychiatric facility as well as less intensive outpatient care.

Located in Houston, Texas, we take an integrative approach to mental health by having our multidisciplinary work together with patients to create customized treatment plans that focus on their individual goals. Our programs include servicing adolescents, adults and older adults. Some of the conditions we treat are depression, anxiety, substance use and more. We also have a variety of evidence-based treatment practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy.

To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call 1-833-379-0017