What Is Partial Hospitalization (PHP)?
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) offer structured, intensive treatment for 5-7 days per week, typically 6-8 hours per day. You receive the same clinical intensity as inpatient treatment — individual therapy, group sessions, psychiatric care, and medical monitoring — but return home or to a sober living facility each evening.
PHP bridges the gap between inpatient and outpatient care. It’s ideal for people who need intensive support but have a stable, safe living situation to go home to. It’s also commonly used as a step-down from inpatient treatment, helping you transition back to independent living with strong clinical support.
Think of PHP as a full-time job of recovery. You’re at the treatment facility during working hours, getting the help you need, then practicing what you’ve learned in the real world each evening.
Who Is It Best For?
- People stepping down from inpatient treatment who still need intensive support
- Those with stable housing and some sober support but needing structured treatment
- People who cannot leave work or family for 30+ days but need more than outpatient
- Individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders
- Those who need medication management and regular psychiatric oversight
What a Typical Day Looks Like
- 8:30 AM: Arrive, check-in, morning group
- 9:30 AM: Individual therapy or psychiatric session
- 11:00 AM: Process group or CBT skills group
- 12:00 PM: Lunch (provided by facility)
- 1:00 PM: Psychoeducation or life skills workshop
- 2:30 PM: Group therapy (trauma, relapse prevention, or specialty)
- 3:30 PM: Wrap-up, daily reflection, dismissal
- Evening: Return home or to sober living; practice recovery skills
How Long Does It Take?
- Typical PHP programs run 2-4 weeks
- Some people attend for up to 6 weeks depending on clinical need
- Most programs run 5-7 days per week, 6-8 hours per day
- After PHP, most people step down to Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
How Much Does It Cost?
- • PHP typically costs $350-$1,000 per day
- • A full PHP program can range from $7,000-$20,000
- • Insurance coverage is strong — most plans cover PHP as medically necessary
- • PHP is often more affordable than inpatient because housing is not included
- • State-funded options and sliding scale programs are available
Not sure about coverage? Check if your insurance covers php treatment
How to Know If This Is Right for You
Partial Hospitalization (PHP) might be the right choice if:
- You’re leaving inpatient treatment and need continued intensive support
- You have a safe, stable place to live but need structured daily treatment
- You need psychiatric medication management alongside addiction treatment
- Your addiction is too severe for outpatient alone but you can’t do residential
- You want intensive treatment without being away from family overnight
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