What to Expect at a Mental Health Partial Hospitalization Program

For individuals struggling with mental health conditions, choosing the right treatment program can feel overwhelming. One common question is whether a mental health PHP—or partial hospitalization program—is the right fit. If you’re searching for care that offers more structure than an intensive outpatient program but doesn’t require an overnight stay, a partial hospitalization level of care may be ideal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what a partial hospitalization program (PHP) involves, what kind of services are provided, how to know if you meet specific requirements, and what life during treatment typically looks like.

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?

A partial hospitalization program (often called PHP) is a short-term, structured mental health treatment option. It’s designed for adults, teens, and sometimes children who need a higher level of care than outpatient services provide—but who do not require full inpatient hospitalization or residential care.

In a PHP, patients attend treatment during the day (typically 5–6 hours a day, 5 days a week) and return home in the evenings. This allows individuals to receive comprehensive care while still maintaining some independence and connection to family, work, or school.

Who Is a Good Fit for PHP?

People have different needs during mental health treatment, depending on their condition, its severity, and other factors. Finding the right level of care is essential. A mental health PHP is best suited for individuals who:

• Need more structure and support than traditional outpatient care
  
• Are stepping down from inpatient care or residential care
  
• Are experiencing significant symptoms, but are stable enough not to require 24/7 supervision
  
• Are dealing with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health conditions
  
• Have experienced a crisis, but are safe to be at home
  

Your clinical team will help determine whether PHP is the right level of care based on your individual needs, symptoms, history, and overall functioning.

What Services Are Included in a Mental Health PHP?

One of the strengths of PHPs is their ability to deliver a range of therapeutic services and supports in a structured format.

While specific offerings can vary by provider and location, here is an overview of what a PHP might include.

Individual Counseling

Counseling is critical to managing mental health conditions. During your time in a PHP, you’ll meet regularly with a licensed therapist or counselor to address personal struggles, identify goals, and process emotions. This private space allows you to work one-on-one on the challenges that may be impacting your life and relationships.

Group Therapy

Group therapy sessions are a core part of PHP. Led by a licensed facilitator, these groups focus on building skills, emotional regulation, communication, and support. Sharing with others who are going through similar experiences can be powerful and validating.

Medication Management

A psychiatrist or nurse practitioner will assess your need for medication and monitor your progress. Medication can be an essential part of treating certain mental health conditions, and your PHP staff will help you explore whether it’s right for you.

Education and Skills Training

Programs often include psychoeducational sessions where patients learn about topics like coping skills, emotional resilience, managing substance use disorders, and strategies to support recovery. This can also include education for families, helping them understand the treatment process and how to offer better support at home.

Case Management and Discharge Planning

Your treatment team will help you create a long-term plan for continued care after completing the program. Whether it’s transitioning to an intensive outpatient program or returning to outpatient therapy, your team ensures you have a clear path forward.

What Does a Typical Day in PHP Look Like?

A typical day in a partial hospitalization program begins in the morning and ends in the mid-afternoon.

Here’s an example schedule to give you a sense of what to expect.

• 9:00 AM: Check-in and morning mindfulness or reflection group
  
• 10:00 AM: Group therapy session (e.g., emotion regulation)
  
• 11:30 AM: Skills training workshop (e.g., coping with triggers)
  
• 12:30 PM: Lunch break
  
• 1:00 PM: Individual therapy or medication check-in
  
• 2:00 PM: Process group or family group (depending on the day)
  
• 3:00 PM: Wrap-up and discharge home
  

This structure helps restore healthy routines and provides consistent therapeutic contact. Contact the team at First Step Behavioral to learn about our PHP and other treatment programs.

How Long Does PHP Last?

The length of stay in a PHP depends on the individual’s progress, symptoms, and treatment goals. While some people may complete the program in 2–3 weeks, others may require 4–6 weeks or more.

Remember, the goal isn’t to “rush” through treatment. It’s about giving each person the time they need to build tools for long-term recovery and well-being.

How Is PHP Different from Other Levels of Care?

Each level of mental health treatment offers different therapies and treatment approaches. Here is what sets a PHP apart from other levels of care.

PHP vs. Inpatient Hospitalization

Inpatient hospitalization is for acute crises where a person may be a danger to themselves or others, or unable to care for themselves. It involves 24/7 monitoring and is typically short-term.

A PHP, by contrast, allows individuals to return home in the evenings and is often used as a step down from inpatient or as an alternative for those who do not need 24/7 care but still need more structure.

PHP vs. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An intensive outpatient program involves fewer hours per week—often around 9–12 hours total. It’s ideal for those who need continued support but can manage more independently.

Many people transition from PHP to IOP as they stabilize, offering a smooth transition while still maintaining momentum in treatment.

Will Insurance or Medicare Cover PHP?

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, typically cover partial hospitalization programs if you meet specific requirements. These include documentation of your mental health condition, your current functioning, and why a lower level of care isn’t sufficient.

However, costs and coverage vary. It’s essential to contact your insurance provider or the PHP’s admissions team to understand what’s included, whether transportation is covered, and if there are out-of-pocket costs.

What Are the Admission Requirements?

Before entering a mental health PHP, you’ll undergo a thorough admission process.

This may include:

• Clinical assessment with a therapist or psychiatrist
  
• Review of mental health and medical history
  
• Evaluation of substance use disorders or other co-occurring conditions
  
• Review of home environment and support system
  
• Determination of safety and ability to participate in programming
  

These steps ensure the program is tailored to your individual needs and that you’re placed at the appropriate level of care.

The Role of PHP Staff

The PHP staff is made up of licensed therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, and support specialists who collaborate to provide comprehensive behavioral healthcare. They work as a team to ensure that every patient receives a customized plan of care.

In addition to clinical expertise, staff are trained to offer compassion, validation, and trauma-informed support. Their goal is not just to treat symptoms, but to help each person move toward recovery with dignity and empowerment.

Life After Completing PHP

Finishing a partial hospitalization program is a significant step in your recovery journey—but it’s not the end. After PHP, individuals typically step down to an intensive outpatient or regular outpatient treatment to maintain progress and reinforce new skills.

You might also continue with individual therapy, group therapy, or support groups in your community. Your discharge plan will be built around your personal goals and what you need to stay well long-term.

Find Treatment and Support

A mental health PHP offers hope and healing for those navigating difficult times. Whether you’re facing depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction, this level of care can provide the structure, skills, and support needed to get back on track.

If you or a loved one is considering a partial hospitalization program, don’t wait another day for the treatment you need. Find the support you need at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About PHP for Mental Health

1. Can I work or go to school while attending a partial hospitalization program?

It depends on the schedule and intensity of the PHP you attend. Most programs run during weekday business hours, which can make it challenging to maintain a full-time job or class load. However, some people can work part-time or take evening classes. If returning to work or school is a treatment goal, your team can help you plan a gradual transition.

2. What happens if I miss a day of PHP?

Attendance is essential to get the most benefit from treatment, but occasional absences may be allowed due to illness or emergencies. It’s best to communicate any absences in advance with your treatment team. Chronic absences may affect your ability to stay in the program or meet insurance coverage requirements.

3. Can family members be involved in my treatment?

Yes. Many PHPs encourage family involvement through education sessions, family therapy, or support groups. Including family in your treatment can help improve communication, build stronger support systems, and educate loved ones about your condition and recovery needs.

4. What kind of support is available after I finish PHP?

After completing PHP, most individuals transition to a lower level of care, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), regular outpatient therapy, or peer support groups. Your treatment team will coordinate aftercare planning to ensure you have continued support, services, and follow-up appointments in place.

5. Do I need a referral to enter a PHP?

Not always. While some programs may require a referral from a healthcare provider or therapist, many allow individuals to self-refer. However, you will still need to complete an assessment to determine whether you meet the clinical criteria for admission.

Sources

• NIMH: Medications for Mental Health Care
• Medicare: Partial Hospitalization Programs for Mental Health
• National Library of Medicine: Intensive Outpatient Programs and the Continuum of Care