Navigating Partial Hospitalization Programs in California: Benefits and Insights

Substance use disorders impact individuals in varied and complex ways, which is why personalized treatment approaches are essential for successful recovery. In addiction treatment, the continuum of care model provides a flexible framework that allows individuals to receive the level of support most appropriate for their needs. One key level of care within this model is the Partial Hospitalization Program in California, which may be the ideal solution—offering structured, high-level care without the need for around-the-clock supervision.

This treatment option balances the intensive support of inpatient programs with the flexibility of outpatient drug rehab. PsychCentral notes that this model allows individuals to begin treatment at a level that aligns with their current circumstances. They can also choose to increase or decrease the intensity of care as they progress.

PHPs provide a structured environment where individuals can receive intensive therapy and medical support during the day and return home in the evenings. This allows people to maintain independence while benefiting from a robust treatment program.

PHPs offer a comprehensive approach to healing, including access to various therapies, including individual counseling, group therapy, and medication management. For many, this balance of support and flexibility is the key to achieving lasting recovery while navigating the challenges of everyday life.

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program in California?

Addiction treatment is available in two primary forms: inpatient and outpatient. Outpatient addiction treatment programs in California allow individuals to reside at home during their treatment period, allowing them to remain engaged with work or school or continue fulfilling personal obligations. The most intensive outpatient treatment available is a partial hospitalization program in California. These programs offer services similar to an inpatient program but do not require patients to reside at the treatment facility.

PHP is designed for individuals who need more structured support than traditional outpatient care but don’t require the round-the-clock care provided by inpatient programs. During the day, participants receive a high level of treatment and support and return home or to a sober living facility in the evening.

These programs are also ideal for individuals who have completed residential inpatient treatment and need a step-down option. They can reintegrate into society while gradually receiving comprehensive treatment and support.

PHP programs typically require patients to attend treatment for 6 to 8 hours a day, 5 to 7 days a week. They are quite comprehensive and consist of various therapeutic services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. They also provide medical and psychiatric supervision to oversee medication management. Programs also teach coping skills, stress management, and relapse prevention.

According to Science Direct, researchers have found that PHP works best when tailored to achieve specific goals for each individual. For example, it can help them return to normal life through skills training and therapy or avoid the need for inpatient care.

How Do You Get into a Partial Hospitalization Program?

Typically, there are several steps to getting into a partial hospitalization program in California. First, it’s important to identify a reputable addiction treatment center that provides PHP. Then, you should consult with the admissions office to arrange an intake appointment.

During this intake, a team of professionals will conduct physical and psychological evaluations to assess whether PHP suits you. This evaluation often includes inquiries about your history with addiction, current mental health status, substance use habits, and any co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or depression.

Addiction specialists collaborate with patients to identify the most appropriate level of care, which may involve recommending more intensive options like medical detox or inpatient treatment before starting PHP.

Once approved for the program, you will proceed with the admissions process, which typically involves completing paperwork, undergoing medical evaluations, and participating in an intake interview. Clinicians will utilize your personal, medical, and substance use history to create a customized care plan.

After the admission process is finalized, you will attend PHP, which usually follows a structured daily schedule. Upon completing PHP, many individuals move on to less intensive care options, such as outpatient drug rehabilitation or aftercare planning, to support their ongoing recovery.

If you intend to have your insurance cover PHP, verifying whether your plan includes this service is essential. You may also need to obtain preauthorization, which the treatment facility can assist you with, and confirm your benefits if necessary. While many insurance plans do cover treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, the extent and duration of coverage can vary based on your specific plan.

Is a Partial Hospitalization Program Worth it?

Choosing to get help for a substance use disorder will always be worth it, and a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) in California can deliver the intensive support necessary for achieving long-term recovery without completely disrupting your life. PHP can be a highly effective treatment option for individuals seeking intensive care while maintaining some independence.

Research published in the journal Psychiatric Services indicates that intensive outpatient programs like PHP can be just as effective as inpatient treatment for many individuals, with the added benefit of enabling participants to transition smoothly from inpatient care or even avoid it altogether if their addiction is addressed early.

In contrast to inpatient rehabilitation, which necessitates a full-time commitment, PHP provides structured daily therapy sessions while allowing individuals to return home each night. This flexibility makes PHP ideal for those who require thorough support but may feel too isolated in an inpatient setting, especially if they have a strong support system at home or need to manage personal responsibilities, such as caring for young children, pets, or other dependents. Additionally, these programs can often be more cost-effective than traditional inpatient care.

What Is the Average Length of Stay in a PHP?

The average duration of stay in a Partial Hospitalization Program for addiction treatment is typically 4 to 6 weeks. Nonetheless, some individuals may find their stay extended or shortened depending on their personal progress, the severity of their addiction, and their specific treatment objectives.

Throughout the program, patients engage in various behavioral therapies in individual and group formats. After the program, therapists evaluate each patient’s progress and suggest the appropriate next steps.

Following this phase, individuals usually transition to less intensive outpatient treatment options, such as Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), which require attendance 3 to 5 days a week, with each session lasting between 2 to 4 hours. This gradual step-down approach helps individuals ease into their everyday lives while still receiving essential support, enhancing their chances of long-term recovery.

As they advance in their recovery journey, the frequency of treatment sessions will likely decrease. However, it’s crucial to remember that addiction is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management.

Contact Resurgence Behavioral Health to Learn More About Our Partial Hospitalization Program in California

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and seeking a comprehensive treatment program, Resurgence Behavioral Health is here to help. Our Partial Hospitalization Program in California is designed to offer intensive care in a structured environment while providing the flexibility to start rebuilding your life.

Our personalized treatment programs begin a thorough evaluation to determine whether PHP or any of our other levels of care are proper for you. Contact Resurgence Behavioral Health today at 855-458-0050 to learn more about how our PHP can help you regain control and work toward lasting recovery.

External Sources

• PsychCentral – What Are the ASAM Levels of Care for Substance Use Disorder?
• ScienceDirect – Partial Hospitalization
• Psychiatric Services – Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Programs: Assessing the Evidence

David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.

Research | Editorial