Sometimes life feels overwhelming. Maybe you’re struggling with depression or anxiety, which makes everyday tasks feel impossible. You know you need help, but you don’t know how to take the first step. If you have ever looked into different treatment options to get help, but you still feel confused, you’re not alone.
If you’re looking for mental health support in California, you might have come across the term Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). It’s a type of treatment that gives you serious support during the day while letting you go home at night. PHP is helpful when outpatient therapy isn’t sufficient, and you don’t want inpatient hospitalization.
What is PHP Mental Health Treatment?
Think of PHP as a bridge between staying in a hospital and going to regular therapy appointments.
Schedules vary by provider. Typically, PHP is ~5-6 hours/day, 5-6 days/week, but some programs offer fewer days or hours depending on your needs. You’ll spend your days in a treatment center where you get therapy and learn coping skills with mental health professionals. Then you go home each evening to sleep in your own bed.
PHP treatment typically includes:
- Individual therapy sessions with a counselor
- Group therapy sessions with other people working on their mental health
- Medication management, if required
- Skills training to help you handle difficult feelings
- Family therapy sessions, if you want them
The goal is to support you on your journey without taking you away from your life completely.
Benefits of Partial Hospitalization Programs in California
PHP means attending sessions most of the day. So, you’ll get much more support than in normal weekly sessions. This extra support helps many people feel better faster.
You can stay connected to your home life. You sleep at home, see your family, and keep some of your normal routines. This makes it easier to practice the skills you’re learning in real-life situations.
PHP treatment also costs less than staying in a hospital full-time. Many insurance plans cover PHP when deemed medically necessary. Be sure to verify with your insurance provider whether your policy includes PHP, what out-of-pocket costs (copays, deductibles) you might face, and whether the treatment center is in-network. (Verify yours with Alter Behavioral Health). Our PHP programs are designed to give you structure while respecting your independence.
Who Can Benefit From PHP Treatment?
You might benefit from PHP if regular therapy appointments don’t seem to be enough. Maybe you’ve been going to therapy once a week, but you’re still struggling. If you don’t notice any changes with regular treatment, try PHP if you want more intensive support.
PHP is also good for people stepping down from inpatient care. If you were in a hospital for mental health treatment, PHP can help you transition back to regular life while still getting lots of support. This can help your mind adjust without feeling overwhelmed.
People dealing with serious depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions often do well in PHP programs. It’s also helpful for those having trouble with daily activities like work, school, or relationships because of their mental health.
PHP does require commitment, but it can make all the difference in your recovery.
PHP vs. IOP: Understanding Your Mental Health Treatment Options
PHP means Partial Hospitalization Program. You attend treatment five to six days per week for about six hours each day. It’s the most intensive outpatient option available.
IOP stands for Intensive Outpatient Program. In IOP, you attend treatment three to five days per week for about three hours each day. It’s less intensive than PHP but still more than regular therapy.
The main difference between the two is time and intensity. PHP is for people who need more support, while IOP works for those who can manage with less daily structure.
Many people start with PHP and then move to IOP as they improve. This step-down approach works well as you gradually return to your normal routine while staying supported.
What to Expect During PHP Mental Health Treatment
Starting PHP treatment can feel scary if you don’t know what to expect. Here’s what a typical day looks like at Alter Behavioral Health.
- You’ll arrive at the treatment center around 9 AM. The day starts with a check-in where you share how you’re feeling.
- Then you’ll attend a one-on-one therapy session where you talk privately with a counselor about your feelings and challenges.
- You’ll also join group therapy sessions where you share experiences with others facing similar struggles.
- Treatment includes learning sessions where staff teach you skills for managing stress, anxiety, or depression.
- You’ll learn techniques like deep breathing, healthy communication, and problem-solving.
- There are breaks for lunch and snacks.
- Some programs include activities like art therapy, mindfulness practice, or exercise.
The day usually ends around 3 or 4 PM, and you go home.
At Alter Behavioral Health, each person gets a personalized treatment plan. We create a schedule based on your specific needs and goals.
How Long Does PHP Treatment Last in California?
A PHP program may last anywhere from two to four weeks in many cases, though some people benefit from shorter or longer stays depending on the severity of symptoms and individual progress. Our team will regularly check your progress and adjust your plan.
The goal is to help you feel better and build skills that last. Some people move from PHP to IOP after a few weeks, continuing their recovery at a less intensive level.
Your treatment length depends on several things: how severe your symptoms are, how quickly you’re improving, what your insurance covers, and what your personal goals are.
The important thing is that you’re making progress and feeling more capable of handling life’s challenges.
Finding Quality PHP Programs in California
California has many PHP options, so finding a quality program matters.
Look for programs that are licensed and accredited. This means they meet important standards for safety and care quality.
Ask about the treatment approach. Good programs use evidence-based therapies, which means their methods are proven to work through research. They should offer individual care, not a generic program for everyone.
Consider the location and schedule. You’ll be attending most days, so pick a program that’s accessible from your home or work.
Check if your insurance is accepted. Most PHP programs work with insurance companies, but it’s smart to verify coverage before starting.
Check if your insurance covers Alter Behavioral Health’s PHP program here.
Your Next Step Toward Healing Starts Today
PHP treatment offers a powerful way to get intensive support while staying connected to your life and loved ones.
If you’re struggling with mental health challenges and regular therapy isn’t enough, PHP might be exactly what you need. Contact us today to take the first step towards healing better.
FAQ
How many hours a day is PHP treatment?
PHP treatment typically lasts about six hours per day, five to six days per week. The exact schedule varies by program.
Is PHP the same as inpatient treatment?
No. Inpatient treatment means you stay at the facility overnight. PHP is outpatient, so you go home each evening.
Will I still be able to work during PHP?
PHP is very time-intensive, so most people take time off work during treatment. However, some programs offer evening or partial-day options.
What mental health conditions does PHP treat?
PHP may help individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, particularly when symptoms interfere with daily life.
How do I know if I need PHP or regular therapy?
A PHP may not be appropriate for everyone — people with certain medical conditions, risk of self-harm, or needing inpatient supervision may require different or more intensive care. Always consult with mental health professionals.
Does insurance cover PHP treatment in California?
Most insurance plans cover PHP treatment when it’s medically necessary. Contact your insurance provider to verify your specific coverage.
Can I visit a PHP program before committing?
Yes, many programs offer tours or consultations so you can see the facility and meet staff before starting treatment.
