You’re ready to pursue treatment for your addiction. You want to regain control of your life and stick to sobriety long-term. You’ve had people ask if you’re “really serious this time.”
Are you serious enough to make pursuing recovery a full-time job?
Have you tried meetings or outpatient treatment and continue to struggle with addiction? It may be time to consider a Partial Hospitalization Program. But what exactly is a PHP program, and is it the right treatment option for your situation?
If you are considering treatment options for drug abuse, substance abuse, or alcohol addiction, read on to learn about what to expect from a Partial Hospitalization Program.
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
The term “partial hospitalization program” is often shortened to PHP. It describes any intensive day treatment program staffed by medical and therapeutic professionals.
PHP is a full-day program that lasts for several weeks. Individuals seeking addiction treatment attend the program five days a week. You will live at home and have nights and weekends off.
PHP is more intensive than an outpatient treatment program because it requires a full-day commitment. Individuals in outpatient programs can often continue to attend day jobs or school during treatment. While participating in a partial hospitalization program, this may be more challenging.
Partial hospitalization programs are a great option for those who are beginning a recovery journey. They are also ideal for those who may have tried outpatient treatment without success.
PHP is less intensive than a residential program, but with the same therapeutic opportunities. Individuals in the program are usually happy to sleep in their own beds and enjoy the weekend with friends and family at home!
If you are at a stage in which you feel you need 24-hour care and supervision, a residential program may be more appropriate. In contrast, PHP provides more freedom. This grants you more opportunities to practice new therapeutic strategies.
In essence, PHP is the ideal level of treatment for those who need significant structure to move forward with recovery, but do not need around-the-clock care.
A Day in the Life
If you are getting help with addiction for the first time, you might be wondering what your average day will look like. In a high-quality program, your plan will be unique to your needs. While the daily schedule will vary from program to program, most PHP programs for addiction and substance abuse have a few things in common.
Group Therapy
During the day, you will attend several group therapy sessions. Group therapy will allow you to meet others who are struggling with drugs, alcohol, or substances. It provides helpful strategies for sober living, as well as accountability for your time outside of the program.
Therapeutic groups often have themes. You will be assigned to groups that your therapeutic team believes will beneficial to your individual needs. A qualified practitioner with experience in group and/or individual therapy will be running your group.
The majority of your day in a PHP program will be spent engaging in group therapy. This will allow you to build trust and relationships as you navigate your relationship with substances. Your therapist or group facilitator may assign you some therapeutic “homework,” such as journaling, to complete outside of your time together.
Individual Therapy
You will also attend individual therapy during your PHP program. A therapist will be assigned to you when you are admitted to the program. This individual will be your point of contact as you progress.
Individual therapy will take place less often than group therapy. You can expect to meet with your therapist anywhere between one and three times per week.
In an emergency or crisis situation, you may need to speak to your therapist sooner. They will typically be on the premises and available to help you through any challenging moments.
Your individual therapist is a great person to talk to about aftercare. They can help you transition into outpatient treatment once you have completed the program.
Medical Appointments
You will most likely also be assigned a medical doctor upon admission to a PHP program. This individual will be able to help you manage any medications that you may be prescribed as part of your treatment process. If you have recently detoxed or are experiencing lingering symptoms of withdrawal, your doctor will be able to support you.
Meals
You will most likely enjoy at least one meal at the PHP facility. When lunch is served, it’s often a relaxed social time that can be spent enjoying food and company. While undergoing treatment, it can be nice to sit back and have someone else take care of the cooking while you focus on your goals and recovery.
Outings and Recreation
Spending five days per week in therapy can be intense! Many PHP programs incorporate trips and outings into the weekly schedule. You may need to be part of the program for a certain period of time before you can attend.
Some PHP programs also build occupational therapy programs into the daily schedule. These may be part of your daily group therapy. You will be able to engage in recreational activities such as journaling, gardening, or crafts during this time.
Consider a Partial Hospitalization Program
If you are thinking about starting a recovery journey, a partial hospitalization program might be the right option for you. This intensive program will give you all the skills you need to live a sober life beyond treatment. It’s an incredible first step toward a life free of drugs or alcohol.
If you are addicted in LA, Silicon Beach Treatment Center is here to help as you pursue recovery. We offer outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs for individuals experiencing addiction. Contact us today to discuss your treatment options.
