When seeking treatment for addiction or mental health disorders, finding the right level of care can be challenging. Some individuals require 24/7 inpatient treatment, while others may need a structured yet flexible program that allows them to live at home. A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) serves as an effective middle ground, offering intensive therapy, medical support, and structured treatment without requiring an overnight stay.
At Bold Steps New Hampshire, we offer a full continuum of care, including Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Outpatient Treatment Programs (OP), Addiction Treatment Programs, Dual Diagnosis Treatment Programs, Medical Detox Programs, and Virtual Treatment Programs. Our goal is to provide individuals with the right level of support to help them achieve long-term recovery.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a PHP is, what it includes, who can benefit from it, and how it compares to other treatment options.
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is an intensive, structured treatment program that provides individuals with comprehensive therapy and medical care during the day while allowing them to return home at night.
PHP serves as a bridge between inpatient rehab and outpatient treatment, offering the intensity of residential care without requiring an overnight stay. It is ideal for individuals who need structured support to maintain sobriety and manage mental health challenges but are stable enough to return home after treatment sessions.
Key Features of PHP
- Daily Therapy Sessions – PHP involves 5-7 hours of therapy per day, five to six days per week.
- Medical and Psychiatric Support – Participants receive medication management, psychiatric assessments, and crisis intervention if needed.
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment – PHP is ideal for individuals who need addiction treatment and mental health care simultaneously.
- Highly Structured Routine – Individuals follow a rigid schedule of therapy, skill-building, and wellness activities.
- Flexibility – Unlike inpatient rehab, PHP allows participants to return home at night, maintaining their personal responsibilities.
PHP is often recommended for individuals who have completed inpatient treatment but still need intensive therapy and support before transitioning to outpatient care.
Who Can Benefit from a Partial Hospitalization Program?
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is best suited for individuals who:
1. Need Intensive Treatment Without 24/7 Supervision
PHP is ideal for those who require daily therapy, medical support, and structured care but do not need round-the-clock monitoring in a residential setting.
2. Are Transitioning from Inpatient Rehab
Many individuals move into PHP after completing inpatient treatment, as it provides a step-down level of care before transitioning to Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or Outpatient Treatment Programs (OP).
3. Struggle with Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders (Dual Diagnosis Treatment)
Many people battling addiction also experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. PHP provides Dual Diagnosis Treatment, allowing individuals to receive comprehensive care for both conditions simultaneously.
4. Have Completed a Medical Detox Program
After detox, individuals often experience physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. PHP helps patients transition from detox to structured therapy while receiving medical and psychiatric support.
5. Need a Higher Level of Support Than Outpatient Programs
For individuals who struggle to maintain sobriety or manage mental health in a traditional outpatient setting, PHP provides a more intensive level of care with structured support.
6. Need a Safe, Structured Routine for Recovery
Recovery is most successful when individuals have a structured routine. PHP provides scheduled therapy, wellness activities, and relapse prevention strategies, helping individuals develop healthy habits that support long-term sobriety.
What to Expect in a Partial Hospitalization Program
At Bold Steps New Hampshire, our PHP provides a personalized approach to addiction and mental health recovery that includes:
1. Individual Therapy
One-on-one therapy sessions help individuals:
- Identify the root causes of addiction and mental health struggles.
- Develop coping skills to manage triggers and emotional challenges.
- Create personalized recovery goals and strategies.
Therapy techniques may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps individuals change negative thought patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy – Addresses past trauma that contributes to addiction.
2. Group Therapy and Peer Support
Group therapy sessions provide connection, encouragement, and shared experiences. Participants:
- Discuss challenges and successes in a safe space.
- Learn relapse prevention strategies and coping mechanisms.
- Build meaningful connections with others in recovery.
3. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Psychiatric Care
For individuals with opioid, alcohol, or benzodiazepine addiction, PHP offers Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to:
- Reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Stabilize brain chemistry during early recovery.
- Prevent relapse with medical supervision.
4. Family Therapy and Education
Addiction affects the entire family, and PHP includes family therapy sessions to:
- Help loved ones understand addiction and recovery.
- Improve communication and rebuild trust.
- Teach families how to provide support without enabling behaviors.
5. Life Skills Training and Relapse Prevention
Participants in PHP receive training in:
- Managing daily responsibilities while staying sober.
- Healthy coping mechanisms for stress and cravings.
- Building a support system for long-term recovery.
PHP vs. IOP vs. Outpatient: Choosing the Right Program
| Program | Intensity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) | 5-7 hours/day, 5-6 days/week | Individuals who need structured therapy and medical support but can live at home. |
| Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) | 3-4 hours/day, 3-5 days/week | Those transitioning from PHP who need structured support with more flexibility. |
| Outpatient Treatment Program (OP) | 1-3 therapy sessions/week | Individuals in long-term recovery needing occasional support. |
If you’re unsure which level of care is best for you, our team at Bold Steps New Hampshire can assess your needs and recommend the right treatment plan.
The Role of Virtual Treatment Programs in PHP
For individuals who cannot attend in-person treatment due to distance, work, or family obligations, Virtual Treatment Programs offer a convenient alternative. Through telehealth therapy, online support groups, and remote psychiatric care, individuals can receive structured PHP services from the comfort of home.
Why Choose Bold Steps New Hampshire for PHP?
At Bold Steps New Hampshire, we are committed to providing individualized, evidence-based treatment that supports lasting recovery.
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment – We address mental health disorders and addiction simultaneously.
- Experienced Medical and Clinical Staff – Our team provides expert addiction treatment and psychiatric care.
- Flexible Treatment Options – We offer PHP, IOP, Outpatient Treatment, and Virtual Treatment Programs.
- Supportive and Compassionate Environment – We create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
Conclusion
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers the intensive support needed to overcome addiction and mental health challenges while maintaining a level of independence. If you or a loved one is struggling, PHP could provide the structured care and professional guidance necessary for long-term recovery.
At Bold Steps New Hampshire, we are committed to helping individuals regain control of their lives through evidence-based treatment, compassionate care, and a personalized recovery approach. Whether you need PHP, IOP, Outpatient Treatment, or Virtual Therapy, our programs are tailored to meet your unique needs. Call (603) 915-4223 today to take the first step toward healing. Let us help you build a strong foundation for a healthier, sober future—one step at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a structured outpatient treatment program that provides intensive therapy and medical care during the day while allowing participants to return home at night. It serves as a step between inpatient rehab and outpatient care, offering a high level of support without requiring overnight stays.
Who is PHP best suited for?
PHP is ideal for individuals who:
- Need intensive treatment for addiction or mental health disorders but do not require 24/7 inpatient care.
- Are transitioning from residential rehab to outpatient treatment.
- Have co-occurring mental health disorders that require specialized care (Dual Diagnosis Treatment).
- Have completed medical detox and need continued medical and psychiatric support.
How does PHP compare to IOP and Outpatient Treatment?
PHP is more intensive than Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Outpatient Treatment Programs (OP). Participants in PHP attend therapy for 5-7 hours per day, 5-6 days per week, whereas IOP involves fewer hours per week, and OP provides even more flexibility.
What types of therapy are included in PHP?
A Partial Hospitalization Program typically includes:
- Individual therapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Therapy)
- Group therapy (peer support, relapse prevention, life skills)
- Family therapy (support for loved ones and education on addiction recovery)
- Medication management and psychiatric care for co-occurring disorders
Can I work or attend school while in PHP?
PHP requires a significant time commitment (usually 5-7 hours per day, 5-6 days per week). If maintaining work or school is necessary, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) may be a better fit.
Is PHP covered by insurance?
Many insurance providers cover Partial Hospitalization Programs as part of addiction and mental health treatment. Our team at Bold Steps New Hampshire can help verify your insurance and explore payment options.
How do I know if PHP is the right treatment for me?
If you are struggling with addiction, mental health challenges, or relapse risks, but do not require inpatient hospitalization, PHP may be the right choice. Call (603) 915-4223 to speak with a treatment specialist at Bold Steps New Hampshire for a free consultation.
