Recovery from addiction is a lifelong journey that requires structured support, evidence-based treatment, and a strong commitment to change. While inpatient rehab provides 24/7 supervision, the transition back to independent living can be overwhelming. That’s where Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) come in.
A PHP is an intensive, structured treatment program that allows individuals to receive full-day therapy and medical support while returning home in the evenings. It’s an ideal step-down from residential rehab or an alternative to inpatient care for those needing high-level support without overnight stays.
At Bold Steps Behavioral Health in New Hampshire, our PHP is designed to provide a balance of structure, therapy, and real-world application, allowing individuals to gradually reintegrate into their daily lives while maintaining sobriety.
This guide takes you through a typical day in our PHP program, highlighting the therapies, recovery tools, and holistic approaches that make our program a crucial part of long-term addiction recovery.
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a highly structured outpatient treatment program designed for individuals struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Key Features of PHP at Bold Steps Behavioral Health:
- 5-6 hours of treatment per day, 5 days per week
- Individual, group, and family therapy sessions
- Medication management and medical monitoring
- Relapse prevention strategies and real-world application of recovery skills
- Step-down program to Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Outpatient Treatment Programs (OP)
- Support for co-occurring mental health conditions (Dual Diagnosis)
PHP allows individuals to receive the care they need while maintaining a level of independence, making it an ideal transitional phase between inpatient rehab and independent recovery.
A Typical Day in a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Each day in PHP is structured to promote healing, build coping skills, and support long-term sobriety. Here’s what a typical day in our PHP program looks like:
Morning: Arrival, Check-In, and Mindfulness (8:30 AM – 9:00 AM)
Each morning begins with a check-in session, where participants:
- Discuss their thoughts, emotions, and challenges from the previous day
- Set daily intentions for their recovery journey
- Engage in mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, meditation, or guided visualization
Mindfulness helps individuals mentally prepare for the day, teaches relaxation techniques that reduce stress and cravings, and encourages self-awareness and emotional stability.
Morning Therapy: Individual Counseling (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
During one-on-one therapy, individuals work with a licensed therapist to:
- Process emotions and trauma that contribute to substance use
- Identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier beliefs
- Develop personalized coping strategies for stress and cravings
- Address co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD
Evidence-Based Therapies Used:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps individuals identify and change harmful thoughts
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and distress tolerance
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Strengthens motivation and commitment to recovery
Mid-Morning Group Therapy: Peer Support & Relapse Prevention (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Group therapy is a vital part of PHP, offering individuals a safe space to share experiences, gain insights, and build a support network.
Common Group Therapy Topics:
- Relapse Prevention Strategies – Learning how to identify and avoid triggers
- Healthy Relationships & Boundaries – Developing communication skills
- Coping with Stress & Anxiety – Finding ways to manage emotions without substance use
- 12-Step and Alternative Recovery Models – Exploring different pathways to sobriety
Group therapy reduces isolation, builds community support, and encourages peer accountability, strengthening commitment to recovery.
Lunch & Wellness Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
A midday break allows individuals to:
- Eat a nutritious meal, as proper nutrition supports brain function and mood stability
- Engage in self-care activities like journaling or mindful walking
- Connect with peers in a relaxed setting
Taking time for personal reflection and relaxation improves emotional well-being and resilience.
Afternoon Therapy: Trauma-Informed Therapy & Family Counseling (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
The afternoon session focuses on deeper emotional healing and rebuilding relationships.
Trauma-Informed Therapy:
- Helps individuals process past traumas that may have contributed to addiction
- Provides tools to manage triggers and emotional distress
Family Therapy & Support Sessions:
- Educates families on addiction and recovery
- Helps repair strained relationships and builds a support system
- Teaches effective communication and boundary-setting
Addressing past traumas reduces the risk of relapse, and family involvement improves long-term recovery outcomes.
Life Skills & Recovery Coaching (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)
Individuals participate in real-world skill-building workshops to prepare for life after PHP.
Workshops Include:
- Time Management & Goal Setting – Creating structured daily routines
- Job Readiness & Career Coaching – Preparing for employment or further education
- Financial Literacy & Budgeting – Learning how to manage money responsibly
- Healthy Lifestyle Habits – Incorporating exercise, nutrition, and self-care
These workshops equip individuals with practical skills for independent living and help build confidence in navigating life post-treatment.
End-of-Day Reflection & Personalized Aftercare Planning (4:00 PM – 4:30 PM)
The day ends with a structured wrap-up session, where participants:
- Reflect on their progress and personal breakthroughs
- Discuss challenges and solutions with their therapist
- Receive assignments or action plans for evening self-care
A structured end-of-day session reinforces accountability and helps individuals transition smoothly to their home environment.
Transitioning from PHP to Long-Term Recovery
PHP is not the end of treatment—it’s an essential stepping stone toward full independence.
What Happens After PHP?
- Step-Down to Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Fewer weekly therapy sessions while maintaining structure
- Outpatient Treatment Program (OP): Continued counseling with more personal flexibility
- Virtual Treatment Program: Telehealth support for those balancing work, school, or family responsibilities
- Sober Living or Aftercare Programs: Ongoing support for long-term recovery success
Maintaining momentum after PHP helps prevent relapse by providing continued accountability and structured guidance.
Conclusion
Recovery is a journey that requires commitment, support, and the right environment to heal and grow. A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) provides the structure, therapy, and medical supervision necessary to help individuals transition from intensive treatment to independent living while building essential coping skills for long-term sobriety.
At Behavioral Health Treatment Center New Hampshire, our PHP is more than just a treatment program—it’s a foundation for lasting change. By combining evidence-based therapy, peer support, and life skills training, we help individuals develop the tools they need to navigate challenges, rebuild relationships, and create a fulfilling, substance-free life. Call (603) 915-4223 to learn more about our PHP, IOP, and Outpatient Treatment Programs in New Hampshire. Recovery is possible. Take the bold step toward a new beginning today.
FAQ on A Day in the Life of a PHP
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a structured day treatment program that provides intensive therapy and medical support for individuals recovering from addiction. It serves as a step-down from inpatient rehab or a higher level of care than traditional outpatient programs.
Who is PHP best suited for?
PHP is ideal for individuals who:
- Have completed inpatient rehab but still need structured support.
- Struggle with both addiction and mental health conditions (dual diagnosis).
- Need intensive therapy but do not require 24/7 residential care.
- Are at risk of relapse and need continued medical and psychological support.
What does a typical day in PHP look like?
A typical day in PHP includes:
- Morning Check-In & Mindfulness – Setting daily goals and practicing stress management.
- Individual Therapy – One-on-one sessions to address personal struggles.
- Group Therapy – Peer support, relapse prevention, and skill-building.
- Lunch & Wellness Break – Time for reflection and social interaction.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy & Family Counseling – Healing past trauma and strengthening family support.
- Life Skills & Recovery Coaching – Preparing for independent living after treatment.
- End-of-Day Reflection & Planning – Reviewing progress and setting goals for the next day.
How long does PHP last?
PHP typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks, depending on an individual’s progress and treatment needs. After PHP, individuals often transition to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or an Outpatient Treatment Program (OP) for continued support.
What types of therapy are used in PHP?
PHP at Bold Steps Behavioral Health includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps change negative thought patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Focuses on emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Strengthens commitment to recovery.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy – Addresses past trauma and its impact on addiction.
- Family Therapy – Improves communication and support within families.
Is medical care included in PHP?
Yes. PHP includes:
- Medication management for addiction and mental health conditions.
- Medical monitoring to ensure stability and prevent relapse.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), if appropriate.
Can I work or go to school while attending PHP?
PHP requires a significant time commitment (5-6 hours per day, 5 days per week), making full-time work or school challenging. However, many individuals transition to Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) after PHP, which offer more flexible scheduling.
