If you’ve recently decided to take the first step toward improving your mental health or addressing substance use, we commend you. We know how difficult that can be. When considering treatment, you might wonder what level of care is right for you. One option you may not be familiar with is a partial hospitalization program (PHP). A PHP serves as a middle ground between the around-the-clock care provided in inpatient treatment and the flexibility of traditional outpatient therapy.
At Alvarado Parkway Institute, we offer compassionate, evidence-based PHP services designed to support individuals like you. Whether you’re navigating a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, our team will provide the care you need to regain stability and hope. Let’s explore what a PHP entails and how it might be the right choice for you.
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
A partial hospitalization program is a structured, well-rounded treatment option for individuals facing significant mental health or substance use challenges. Unlike inpatient programs that require you to stay at a facility full-time, PHPs offer the flexibility to return home each day after treatment.
Think of a PHP as a supportive bridge—it provides the intensive care you need while allowing you to maintain a connection to familiar relationships and environments. This unique balance helps many people feel grounded as they work through challenges, learn new skills, and build a healthier future. After stepping outside their comfort zone, they can return to a place they can call their own and interact face-to-face with the people they love.
Services Provided in a PHP
When you participate in a PHP at Alvarado Parkway Institute, you’ll receive a wide range of services tailored to your needs. These include:
- Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist to explore your specific challenges, develop coping strategies, and set achievable goals
- Group therapy: Opportunities to connect with others who share similar struggles, guided by a licensed professional
- Family therapy: If appropriate, sessions with your loved ones to address relationship dynamics and build a stronger support network
- Medication management: Ongoing evaluation and adjustments to your medications to ensure they’re effective and aligned with your recovery goals
- Skills training and education: Practical tools and techniques to help you manage symptoms, reduce stress, and navigate daily life with greater confidence
Our PHP services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team of mental health professionals who are invested in your success and who want to see you thrive.
How Does a PHP Differ From Other Treatment Options?
You might wonder how a PHP compares to other levels of care. Here’s how it serves as a middle ground between inpatient and outpatient treatment:
- Compared to inpatient care: A PHP offers more freedom and flexibility while still providing intensive support. It’s also a more cost-effective option for many individuals since they are not under our care at all times. Think of it as a program that adapts to your needs, offering the intensity of inpatient treatment without the need to stay overnight.
- Compared to intensive outpatient programs (IOPs): PHPs involve more frequent and structured treatment sessions than IOPs. Individuals in our PHPs meet five times a week, whereas those in IOPs only meet three times. If outpatient care alone hasn’t been enough to help you regain stability, or if you’ve made the jump too quickly, a PHP may be the right next step. Eventually, if you find yourself making progress, you can return to an IOP.
Who Is a PHP For?
A PHP is designed for individuals who are in distress but who don’t require the 24/7 monitoring of inpatient care. It’s particularly beneficial if you:
- Are struggling with conditions like severe anxiety, depression, PTSD, or co-occurring disorders
- Are transitioning out of inpatient care and need a supportive step-down program before returning fully to daily life
- Need more than outpatient therapy because your symptoms are affecting your ability to function at work, school, or home
- Are a caregiver seeking additional resources and support for a loved one
Every situation is unique, and PHPs can be adjusted to accommodate whatever you are going through.
Benefits of a PHP
Participating in a partial hospitalization program offers numerous benefits, including:
- Flexibility and balance: You can maintain responsibilities at home or work while receiving the care you need. This balance makes PHPs a practical choice for many individuals.
- Intensive support: With access to a team of therapists, psychiatrists, and other professionals, you’ll receive the guidance and resources necessary to make meaningful progress.
- Focus on recovery skills: A PHP equips you with practical tools to manage your symptoms, handle stress, and build a foundation for long-term wellness and joy.
- Continuity of care: If needed, your treatment can seamlessly transition into outpatient care, ensuring ongoing support as you continue to heal.
PHPs are an invaluable resource for individuals seeking a higher level of care without the need for hospitalization.
Is a PHP Right for You?
Deciding whether a PHP is the right fit can feel like a big decision. To help you evaluate, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you finding it difficult to manage your mental health symptoms or substance use on your own?
- Have traditional outpatient therapies been insufficient for your needs?
- Are your symptoms interfering with your ability to work, care for your family, or manage daily responsibilities?
- Are you ready to commit to a structured program?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, a PHP might be exactly what you need to take the next step toward better mental health.
Find a Mental Health or Addiction PHP Program Near You
Choosing a partial hospitalization program is a proactive way to address the challenges you’re facing and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. At Alvarado Parkway Institute, we understand how daunting this process can feel, and we want you to know that we are here for you. To determine if PHP is right for you, reach out to Alvarado Parkway Institute today. Taking this step is a testament to your strength and resilience. Let us help you make it count.
