When someone needs more support than traditional outpatient therapy can provide but doesn’t require 24-hour supervision, a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers a critical middle ground.
Understanding what PHP treatment entails can help you or your loved one make informed decisions about mental health and addiction recovery.
Learn more about our Atlanta Partial Hospitalization Program or call us now at 888-296-4189.
Understanding Partial Hospitalization Programs
A Partial Hospitalization Program is a structured, intensive treatment approach that provides comprehensive care during the day while allowing patients to return home in the evenings.
Sometimes called “day treatment,” PHP typically involves 5-6 hours of programming per day, 5-7 days per week.
This level of care sits between residential treatment and standard outpatient mental health treatment, offering a step-down option for those transitioning from residential care or a step-up for individuals whose symptoms have intensified beyond what weekly therapy can address.
Who Benefits From PHP Treatment?
Partial hospitalization serves individuals facing various mental disorders and substance use challenges who need intensive support but can maintain some independence.
PHP may be appropriate if you’re experiencing:
- Severe depression or anxiety that interferes with daily functioning
- Recent psychiatric crisis or suicidal ideation requiring close monitoring
- Substance use disorder requiring structured support during early recovery
- Co-occurring mental health and addiction issues (dual diagnosis)
- Difficulty managing symptoms with traditional outpatient care
- Need for medication management and frequent psychiatric monitoring
PHP provides an alternative to inpatient hospitalization when you have a safe, supportive living environment to return to each evening.
What Does a Typical PHP Day Look Like?
While specific schedules vary by facility, most partial hospitalization programs follow a structured format that includes:
Morning Programming (9 AM – 12 PM)
- Community check-in and goal setting
- Individual therapy sessions
- Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
- Psychoeducational groups on topics like coping skills, emotional regulation, or substance use education
Afternoon Programming (1 PM – 4 PM)
- Group therapy focused on specific issues (trauma, anxiety, family dynamics)
- Holistic therapies such as art therapy, mindfulness, or movement
- Skills-building workshops for real-world application
- Discharge planning and aftercare coordination
Throughout the day, you’ll work with a multidisciplinary team including psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, and case managers who collaborate on your treatment plan.
PHP vs. Other Levels of Care: What’s the Difference?
Understanding where PHP fits in the continuum of care helps clarify whether it’s the right option:
Inpatient/Residential Treatment
- 24-hour supervised care
- Best for: Severe symptoms requiring constant monitoring, immediate safety concerns
- Duration: Typically 30-90 days
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
- 5-6 hours daily, 5-7 days per week
- Best for: Serious symptoms requiring intensive treatment but with stable living situation
- Duration: Typically 2-4 weeks
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- 3-4 hours daily, 3-5 days per week
- Best for: Moderate symptoms, transition from PHP, balancing treatment with work/school
- Duration: Typically 4-12 weeks
Outpatient Therapy
- 1-2 hours weekly
- Best for: Mild to moderate symptoms, ongoing maintenance, prevention
- Duration: Varies widely based on individual needs
The Treatment Approach at Peachtree Wellness Solutions
At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, our Partial Hospitalization Program combines evidence-based clinical practices with compassionate, individualized care. We recognize that no two recovery journeys are identical, which is why our PHP adapts to your specific needs.
Our comprehensive approach includes:
Evidence-Based Psychotherapy: We utilize proven treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to address the root causes of mental health and addiction challenges.
Psychiatric Care: Our experienced psychiatric team provides thorough assessments, medication management, and ongoing monitoring to ensure your treatment addresses both psychological and biological aspects of recovery.
Holistic Healing: Beyond traditional therapy, we incorporate mindfulness practices, nutritional guidance, fitness activities, and creative therapies that support whole-person wellness.
Family Involvement: We recognize that healing happens in context. Our family therapy and education components help rebuild relationships and create sustainable support systems.
Dual Diagnosis Expertise: For individuals navigating both mental health and substance use challenges, our integrated treatment approach addresses both conditions simultaneously for lasting recovery.
Benefits of Choosing PHP
Partial hospitalization offers several advantages for individuals ready to commit to intensive healing:
- Structure Without Confinement PHP provides the therapeutic intensity of inpatient care while allowing you to practice new skills in your home environment each evening. This bridge between treatment and real life helps solidify lasting change.
- Clinical Intensity With multiple therapy sessions and psychiatric oversight each day, PHP delivers concentrated treatment that can accelerate progress for individuals struggling with complex or severe symptoms.
- Cost-Effectiveness Because you’re not paying for overnight accommodations and 24-hour staffing, PHP typically costs significantly less than inpatient treatment while still providing robust clinical support.
- Maintained Connections Returning home each night allows you to maintain important relationships and responsibilities, reducing the disruption to your life while still prioritizing recovery.
- Insurance Coverage: Most insurance plans cover PHP as a medically necessary level of care, making intensive treatment more accessible.
What to Expect During PHP Admission
Beginning partial hospitalization involves several steps designed to create your personalized treatment plan:
- Comprehensive Assessment: You’ll meet with clinical staff for a thorough evaluation of your mental health, substance use history, medical needs, and treatment goals.
- Treatment Planning: Based on your assessment, our team develops an individualized plan that addresses your specific challenges and leverages your strengths.
- Orientation: You’ll learn about daily schedules, program expectations, and available resources to help you feel prepared and comfortable.
- Ongoing Evaluation: Throughout your time in PHP, your treatment team regularly assesses your progress and adjusts your plan to ensure you’re receiving the most effective care.
Making the Transition: From PHP to Continued Care
Successful recovery extends beyond your time in partial hospitalization.
At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, we emphasize discharge planning from day one to ensure you have the support needed for sustained wellness.
As you progress through PHP, we’ll work with you to develop a comprehensive aftercare plan that may include:
- Transition to Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for continued structured support
- Connection with individual therapists for ongoing counseling
- Peer support group recommendations
- Psychiatric follow-up for medication management
- Relapse prevention strategies and crisis planning
- Community resource connections
This continuum approach recognizes that PHP is often one phase of a longer healing journey rather than a standalone solution.
Is PHP Right for You?
Determining the appropriate level of care requires honest reflection about your current situation. Consider PHP if:
- Your symptoms are significantly impacting your ability to work, maintain relationships, or care for yourself
- Outpatient therapy hasn’t provided sufficient improvement
- You’re transitioning from a higher level of care and need continued structure
- You’re experiencing a mental health crisis but have a safe home environment
- You need intensive support to prevent hospitalization
- You’re ready to commit several hours daily to focused treatment
The best way to determine if PHP meets your needs is through a professional assessment.
Our admissions team can help evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate level of care.
Begin Partial Hospitalization Programming Today
Recognizing that you need more intensive support takes courage. Whether you’re facing a mental health crisis, struggling with addiction, or managing co-occurring disorders, Partial Hospitalization Programs offer a powerful pathway to healing that honors both your need for intensive treatment and your capacity for independence.
At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, we’re committed to meeting you wherever you are in your recovery journey. Our PHP provides the clinical expertise, therapeutic intensity, and compassionate support necessary to create meaningful, lasting change.
If you or a loved one could benefit from partial hospitalization, verify your insurance today or call us at 888-296-4189.
