Partial Hospitalization

Partial hospitalization may be right for an individual if they:

• Neglect their basic needs
• Have co-occurring disorders
• Are unable to function at work
• Have a support system at home
• Desire treatment and are willing to cooperate
• Cannot meet familial or social responsibilities

This program is not suitable for those who are:

• Suicidal
• Homicidal
• Medically unstable
• In need of around-the-clock care

A clinician who has intimate knowledge of the client’s condition, medical history, home situation, and support network works with them to determine whether PHP is the best path for their recovery. If it’s not, they can provide guidance on what type of program is likely to be the most beneficial. For example, 449 Recovery also has an intensive outpatient program (IOP) that is less intensive but still provides similar benefits. Clients spend about three hours per day, five days a week in IOP. This is compared to the more committed schedule of PHP, which is six hours per day, five days a week.

The core of PHP is medication management and therapy. Prescription medications are often a key component due to the severe nature of the mental health conditions and SUD being treated in this type of program. Medications may need to be lowered or increased to counteract undesirable symptoms. Side effects are typically monitored for several weeks as the body may take time to adjust to new dosages.

Therapy sessions are scheduled to provide a highly-structured environment in which clients can stay focused on their treatment goals. At 449 Recovery, our licensed counselors and therapists help clients identify their triggers and learn new skills and coping mechanisms in individual and group sessions. The overall goal of therapy is to come to terms with behavioral patterns that may be hindering the client’s progress and modify them.

An important focus is placed on learning resilience and adaptability to difficult and evolving circumstances. Clients learn to self-soothe and see their issues with more clarity. This helps them combat unproductive thought and behavioral patterns when faced with intra- and interpersonal conflicts.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT),  mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are particularly useful when it comes to acquiring life skills that contribute to a client’s resilience, such as acceptance, self-awareness, and emotional regulation.

Clients are exposed to peers who are also being treated for mental disorders and/or addiction during group therapy sessions. This gives clients the chance to share their personal experiences and gain advice. They may even make friendships that continue to support them after treatment. When faced with uncomfortable social situations or triggers, clients can practice coping techniques to de-escalate the situation or control their emotions.

Experiential therapies such as psychodrama, art therapy, activity therapy, and music therapy can simulate real-life scenarios, helping to prepare clients for discharge. In addition to social benefits, therapies offered in a group format can improve a client’s cognitive, emotional, and physical abilities.

Participation in group therapies can motivate clients to keep pushing forward even when things get tough. Having peers they trust and can relate to also helps maintain accountability. As peers face similar challenges and rewards, there is an inherent understanding that everyone is “in it together.”

To be sure, the process of personal transformation can be painful and full of uncertainties. Managing a severe mental health disorder or addiction can feel like moving through hills and valleys. Having a team of supporters can give a person the energy and confidence they need to complete PHP and move on to recovery.