Considering a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for yourself or a loved one? You probably have a lot of questions. At Archangel Centers in New Jersey, we’re here to provide clear, honest answers so you can make an informed decision about your recovery journey. Below, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about PHP, covering everything from logistics to clinical care.
What does PHP stand for?
PHP stands for Partial Hospitalization Program. It is an intensive form of outpatient treatment that provides structured care during the day while allowing participants to return to affiliate or sober housing in the evening.
Does PHP involve checking into a hospital for part of the day?
No, PHP is not the same as being hospitalized. While it offers a high level of clinical care, participants do not stay overnight in a hospital. Instead, they attend treatment at a facility for several hours each day and then return to sober housing or facility-affiliated housing that provides structure and accountability.
Who is PHP appropriate for?
PHP is ideal for individuals who:
- Need intensive treatment but do not require 24/7 supervision.
- Are stepping down from residential/inpatient care but still need structured support.
- Require medical or psychiatric stabilization but are not in immediate crisis.
- Are committed to recovery but need a higher level of care than traditional outpatient programs.
Is PHP covered by insurance in New Jersey?
Yes, most insurance plans cover PHP, but the extent of coverage depends on your provider and policy. Our team at Archangel Centers can help verify your insurance benefits and discuss payment options if needed.
What are the main benefits of PHP?
- Intensive therapy and medical support without full hospitalization.
- A structured daily schedule that promotes routine and accountability.
- Access to individual and group therapy, medication management, and life skills training.
- The ability to integrate treatment with real-life responsibilities, preparing for long-term recovery.
Where do people live when participating in a PHP?
Most participants in PHP live in sober housing or facility-affiliated housing, which provides a structured, supportive environment separate from the clinical setting. Unlike Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), PHP typically does not allow participants to return home each night.
Will I be drug tested?
Yes, regular drug testing is typically part of PHP. This helps ensure accountability and a safe, substance-free environment for all participants.
What type of clinical support do I receive in a PHP?
PHP offers a range of clinical services, including:
- Individual therapy (one-on-one counseling with a licensed therapist).
- Group therapy (support from peers facing similar challenges).
- Medication management (if needed, to support mental health and addiction recovery).
- Behavioral therapy techniques (such as CBT or DBT) to help manage cravings and emotions.
Do I receive medical care in a PHP?
Yes, PHPs provide medical oversight, especially for those managing withdrawal symptoms, mental health disorders, or medication-assisted treatment (MAT). While it is not a full medical facility like a hospital, PHP does include psychiatric support and medication management as needed.
How many hours per day am I required to participate in?
Most PHP programs run between 4 to 6 hours per day, typically five days a week. The exact schedule depends on the program and individual needs.
How long does someone usually attend a PHP?
The length of a PHP varies based on individual progress, but most people attend for two to six weeks, with the option to step down to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or traditional outpatient therapy afterward.
If I’ve done a PHP in the past, am I allowed to enroll in one again?
Absolutely. Recovery is not always linear, and many individuals return to PHP for additional support when needed. There is no limit to how many times you can engage in PHP if it is clinically appropriate.
Does a PHP really help someone get clean and sober?
Yes, PHP provides the tools, therapy, and structure needed for lasting recovery. While no program can guarantee sobriety, PHP helps individuals develop the coping mechanisms, relapse prevention strategies, and emotional resilience needed for long-term success.
How does PHP differ from inpatient or outpatient treatment?
- Inpatient treatment: 24/7 care in a residential facility.
- PHP: Intensive daily treatment with structured sober housing.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Less intensive than PHP, allowing participants to return home at the end of each day.
- Outpatient treatment: Fewer hours of therapy per week, typically for those with more stability.
Do I have to go to PHP every day?
Most PHPs operate Monday through Friday, but some offer flexible scheduling. Attendance is essential to progress, so missing days can impact recovery.
What happens after I complete a PHP?
Many people transition into Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or traditional outpatient therapy after PHP. Continuing care is critical for maintaining long-term recovery.
Can I work or go to school while in a PHP?
PHP is intensive, so maintaining a full-time job or school schedule may be difficult. However, many people can work part-time or take classes depending on their schedule and personal progress.
What should I bring with me to PHP?
- A journal or notebook
- Comfortable clothing
- Any prescribed medications (to be managed by the medical team)
- A positive attitude and willingness to engage
Can family and friends visit or be involved in my treatment?
Yes! Many PHPs offer family therapy sessions or educational programs to help loved ones understand addiction and mental health treatment.
What if I relapse while in a PHP?
Relapse is a part of many people’s recovery journeys. If it happens, your treatment team will work with you to adjust your plan, provide additional support, and explore whether a higher level of care is needed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a PHP is a big step, and we’re here to help. If you have more questions or want to see if Archangel Centers’ PHP is right for you or a loved one, reach out today. Recovery is possible, and we’re ready to walk this journey with you.Call us at 888.464.6182 or fill out our online form to speak with a treatment specialist.
Considering a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for yourself or a loved one? You probably have a lot of questions. At Archangel Centers in New Jersey, we’re here to provide clear, honest answers so you can make an informed decision about your recovery journey. Below, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about PHP, covering everything from logistics to clinical care.
What does PHP stand for?
PHP stands for Partial Hospitalization Program. It is an intensive form of outpatient treatment that provides structured care during the day while allowing participants to return to affiliate or sober housing in the evening.
Does PHP involve checking into a hospital for part of the day?
No, PHP is not the same as being hospitalized. While it offers a high level of clinical care, participants do not stay overnight in a hospital. Instead, they attend treatment at a facility for several hours each day and then return to sober housing or facility-affiliated housing that provides structure and accountability.
Who is PHP appropriate for?
PHP is ideal for individuals who:
- Need intensive treatment but do not require 24/7 supervision.
- Are stepping down from residential/inpatient care but still need structured support.
- Require medical or psychiatric stabilization but are not in immediate crisis.
- Are committed to recovery but need a higher level of care than traditional outpatient programs.
Is PHP covered by insurance in New Jersey?
Yes, most insurance plans cover PHP, but the extent of coverage depends on your provider and policy. Our team at Archangel Centers can help verify your insurance benefits and discuss payment options if needed.
What are the main benefits of PHP?
- Intensive therapy and medical support without full hospitalization.
- A structured daily schedule that promotes routine and accountability.
- Access to individual and group therapy, medication management, and life skills training.
- The ability to integrate treatment with real-life responsibilities, preparing for long-term recovery.
Where do people live when participating in a PHP?
Most participants in PHP live in sober housing or facility-affiliated housing, which provides a structured, supportive environment separate from the clinical setting. Unlike Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), PHP typically does not allow participants to return home each night.
Will I be drug tested?
Yes, regular drug testing is typically part of PHP. This helps ensure accountability and a safe, substance-free environment for all participants.
What type of clinical support do I receive in a PHP?
PHP offers a range of clinical services, including:
- Individual therapy (one-on-one counseling with a licensed therapist).
- Group therapy (support from peers facing similar challenges).
- Medication management (if needed, to support mental health and addiction recovery).
- Behavioral therapy techniques (such as CBT or DBT) to help manage cravings and emotions.
Do I receive medical care in a PHP?
Yes, PHPs provide medical oversight, especially for those managing withdrawal symptoms, mental health disorders, or medication-assisted treatment (MAT). While it is not a full medical facility like a hospital, PHP does include psychiatric support and medication management as needed.
How many hours per day am I required to participate in?
Most PHP programs run between 4 to 6 hours per day, typically five days a week. The exact schedule depends on the program and individual needs.
How long does someone usually attend a PHP?
The length of a PHP varies based on individual progress, but most people attend for two to six weeks, with the option to step down to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or traditional outpatient therapy afterward.
If I’ve done a PHP in the past, am I allowed to enroll in one again?
Absolutely. Recovery is not always linear, and many individuals return to PHP for additional support when needed. There is no limit to how many times you can engage in PHP if it is clinically appropriate.
Does a PHP really help someone get clean and sober?
Yes, PHP provides the tools, therapy, and structure needed for lasting recovery. While no program can guarantee sobriety, PHP helps individuals develop the coping mechanisms, relapse prevention strategies, and emotional resilience needed for long-term success.
How does PHP differ from inpatient or outpatient treatment?
- Inpatient treatment: 24/7 care in a residential facility.
- PHP: Intensive daily treatment with structured sober housing.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Less intensive than PHP, allowing participants to return home at the end of each day.
- Outpatient treatment: Fewer hours of therapy per week, typically for those with more stability.
Do I have to go to PHP every day?
Most PHPs operate Monday through Friday, but some offer flexible scheduling. Attendance is essential to progress, so missing days can impact recovery.
What happens after I complete a PHP?
Many people transition into Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or traditional outpatient therapy after PHP. Continuing care is critical for maintaining long-term recovery.
Can I work or go to school while in a PHP?
PHP is intensive, so maintaining a full-time job or school schedule may be difficult. However, many people can work part-time or take classes depending on their schedule and personal progress.
What should I bring with me to PHP?
- A journal or notebook
- Comfortable clothing
- Any prescribed medications (to be managed by the medical team)
- A positive attitude and willingness to engage
Can family and friends visit or be involved in my treatment?
Yes! Many PHPs offer family therapy sessions or educational programs to help loved ones understand addiction and mental health treatment.
What if I relapse while in a PHP?
Relapse is a part of many people’s recovery journeys. If it happens, your treatment team will work with you to adjust your plan, provide additional support, and explore whether a higher level of care is needed.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a PHP is a big step, and we’re here to help. If you have more questions or want to see if Archangel Centers’ PHP is right for you or a loved one, reach out today. Recovery is possible, and we’re ready to walk this journey with you.
Call us at 888.464.6182 or fill out our online form to speak with a treatment specialist.
