Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: A Comprehensive Guide

Explore our partial hospitalization program overview for insights into structured support and integrative therapies.

Written and reviewed by Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S.

AM Behavioral Health's Partial Hospitalization Program Overview

AM Behavioral Health’s partial hospitalization program (PHP) offers a powerful solution for people in Ohio and beyond seeking intensive mental health, addiction, and dual diagnosis treatment. This program fills the gap between inpatient hospitalization and traditional outpatient care.

Our comprehensive partial hospitalization program provides a structured and supportive environment, allowing participants to get comprehensive treatment while still maintaining a connection to their daily lives.

"At AM Behavioral Health, our partial hospitalization program differs from residential treatment in that patients attend treatment during the day and return home in the evenings, providing a more flexible option for those who do not require 24-hour supervision. A PHP is ideal for patients who require intensive treatment and support but can safely reside in their own homes or in a supportive environment. Patients in a PHP typically benefit from structured therapy, medical monitoring, and access to a multidisciplinary treatment team while maintaining a level of independence and involvement in their daily lives."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet

Strengthening Our Community

At AM Behavioral Health, we aim to enhance community wellness with innovative treatment techniques. Our PHP is central to this vision, offering a balance between intensive care and the autonomy of outpatient treatment.

Our PHP facilitates sustained recovery and supports people’s integration into daily life. This promotes lasting recovery and improves the quality of life for clients and their families.

Your Guide to Healing

This page serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking information about the partial hospitalization program overview.

Here, you’ll find details about:

The program structure
The benefits it offers
How it can help you or your loved one on the road to recovery

Continue reading to learn more.

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: Understanding the PHP

A PHP bridges the gap between traditional outpatient care and inpatient hospitalization. It offers a structured and intensive treatment environment, providing comprehensive support for people struggling with mental health and/or substance use disorders.

"At AM Behavioral Health, we manage the transition of patients from an inpatient setting to a PHP through careful coordination and collaboration among our treatment team. Prior to discharge from inpatient care, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine the appropriate level of care and support needed for the patient's continued recovery. We work closely with the patient, their family, and community resources to ensure a seamless transition, providing education, support, and follow-up care to address any challenges or concerns that may arise."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet

Tailored Treatment Components for Lasting Recovery

A PHP incorporates a variety of components to address the unique needs of each participant. Here’s a closer look at some key elements:

Individual Therapy Sessions

50% of the clients report improvement after just eight psychotherapy sessions. This number increases to 75% after six months. During these sessions, participants meet one-on-one with a qualified therapist.¹

The aim of a PHP is to explore personal challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and set personalized goals for recovery. Therapists use evidence-based practices to address specific conditions and work together with clients to create a personalized treatment plan.

Group Therapy Sessions

Group therapy provides a powerful source of support and connection. Participants can:

Share experiences
Learn from each other
Develop a sense of belonging

These sessions can help manage feelings of isolation and reinforce healthy coping skills.

"At AM Behavioral Health, our PHP offers a range of core therapeutic activities designed to support patients in their recovery journey. These may include group therapy sessions, individual counseling, psychoeducation workshops, medication management, and holistic wellness activities. Group therapy provides a supportive environment for patients to share experiences, gain insights, and develop coping skills, while individual counseling allows for personalized treatment planning and addressing specific needs. By engaging in these therapeutic activities, patients can enhance self-awareness, build resilience, and develop strategies for long-term recovery."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet

Group Therapy in a Partial Hospitalization Program Overview

Medication Management

A psychiatrist or mental health professional works closely with participants to determine if medication can be a beneficial part of their treatment plan. Regular medication monitoring and adjustments ensure effective support for symptom management.

Psychoeducation

Psychoeducation empowers individuals to take control of their recovery and make informed decisions about their well-being. Studies reveal that psychoeducation can impact the course of illness, leading to longer periods free from hospitalizations.²

Educational sessions provide participants with knowledge about their condition. This includes learning about:

Causes
Symptoms
Effective management strategies

Skill-Building Activities

A PHP goes beyond simply managing symptoms. Skill-building activities equip people with practical tools for navigating daily life.

This may involve:

Techniques for managing stress
Improving communication skills
Developing healthy coping mechanisms to prevent relapse

Research suggests that skill-building activities can be highly effective in promoting drug abuse preventive behaviors. This helps people work toward recovery and prepare for independent living.³

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: Exploring Eligibility Criteria for a PHP

A PHP is a good fit for people with mental health and/or substance use disorders who are struggling to function in daily life.

It can be especially helpful for those:

Experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions
Dealing with addiction or dependence on drugs or alcohol
Needing additional support after completing inpatient treatment
At risk of needing hospitalization, but who can benefit from a more flexible treatment option

Risk Assessment for PHP Eligibility

A crucial eligibility criterion is assessing the person’s risk of harm to themselves or others. PHP candidates should present a low risk, as the program is not designed to handle acute crisis situations.

This evaluation ensures the safety of all program participants while maintaining the therapeutic integrity of the PHP setting.

Conditions and Concerns Addressed by a PHP

A PHP can address a wide range of mental health conditions and substance use concerns. These include:

Depressive Disorders

A PHP can treat depressive disorders, including major depressive disorder and dysthymia. It offers a combination of intensive psychotherapy and medication management to improve mood and functionality.

Anxiety Disorders

A PHP provides essential coping mechanisms and strategies for people with anxiety disorders. This includes all forms of anxiety, including:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Panic disorder
Social anxiety disorder

The PHP helps manage anxiety symptoms through a blend of therapeutic approaches, skill-building activities, and stress reduction techniques. The aim is to enhance a person’s quality of life and empower them with the tools to manage their anxiety long-term.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder requires careful and continuous management due to its sensitivity. A PHP helps in this regard by providing a structured environment conducive to mood stabilization.

Medication management, coupled with psychoeducation, equips clients with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of bipolar disorder.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

People in the early stages of recovery from substance use disorders find a PHP particularly beneficial. These programs offer comprehensive support, including specialized therapy that addresses both the addiction and any underlying mental health conditions.

The relapse rates for substance use disorders range from 40-60%. But, the components of a PHP equip people with critical skills to recognize early signs of relapse. It also teaches them effective coping mechanisms to maintain sobriety.⁴

A Closer Look at SUD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Trauma-Related Conditions

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Trauma-Related Conditions Partial hospitalization programs, like ours at AM Behavioral Health, offer trauma-informed care tailored to the needs of individuals with PTSD or other trauma-related conditions. Trauma-informed care ensures that individuals find sustainable healing without being re-traumatized in the process.

Therapeutic modalities help process and manage trauma symptoms effectively with various coping strategies. Among them are:

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Motivational interviewing (MI)

What is EMDR?

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

BPD involves difficulty managing emotions, unstable relationships, and impulsive behaviors. A PHP can provide a safe and supportive environment for people with BPD.

A tailored PHP can empower individuals to:

Learn emotional regulation skills
Build healthy relationships
Develop a stronger sense of self

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: Key Features and Benefits

A comprehensive initial assessment is the first step for joining our PHP. This involves a detailed evaluation of a person’s:

Mental health status
Substance use history
Medical history
General functioning

The goal is to gain a thorough understanding of the person’s strengths and challenges. This process ensures that the care provided is aligned with the person’s specific situation.

Tailoring Treatment Plans

Following the initial assessment, a personalized treatment plan is developed for each client. This plan is tailored to address the unique needs identified during the assessment. This allows for adaptability in response to the person’s progress throughout the program.

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: Multidisciplinary Team

At AM Behavioral Health, we believe in the power of collaboration. Our PHP benefits from a multidisciplinary team approach, which includes:

Psychiatrists
Psychologists
Social workers
Nurses
Other healthcare professionals

Advantages of the Team Approach

This team approach offers several advantages, including:

Shared expertise
Integrated care
Individualized support

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: Structured Daily Programming for a PHP

The PHP at AM Behavioral Health provides a well-organized and structured daily schedule. A typical day within PHP includes a mix of therapeutic activities, each aimed at addressing different aspects of the client’s condition and recovery needs.

This can include:

Group therapy sessions
Psychoeducational workshops
Recreational activities

Supportive Environment

AM Behavioral Health is committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment that encourages healing and recovery. Our staff, from therapists to administrative personnel, plays a significant role in cultivating this atmosphere.

The team at AM Behavioral Health is trained to provide empathetic, patient-centered care. We ensure that every person feels heard, valued, and respected.

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview of the Transition Process

The transition process from a PHP to lower levels of care or outpatient services is carefully managed. This process begins well before the actual transition.

It starts with the treatment team evaluating the client’s:

Progress
Current needs
Readiness to move to a less intensive care setting

Transition Elements

Key elements of this transition include:

Coordination with outpatient therapists, psychiatrists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a smooth handover.
The gradual reduction in the number of days the person attends the PHP before fully moving to outpatient care.
Tailored plans outlining steps of each person’s journey.

Importance of Aftercare Planning and Ongoing Support

Aftercare planning helps maintain progress made during a PHP and prevent relapse. This planning involves several key strategies, including:

Ongoing therapy sessions, support groups, and medication management.
Helping clients identify triggers, manage stress, and cope with cravings.
Building a supportive network of family, friends, and peers who understand the journey of recovery.
Regular check-ins or follow-up appointments to monitor the person’s progress post-transition.

"Our partial hospitalization program is designed to address the holistic needs of our patients, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical health, mental health, and social support. We offer comprehensive assessments to identify areas of concern and develop individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based therapies, medication management, and support services. Additionally, we facilitate connections to community resources and support networks to strengthen social support and foster long-term recovery. By addressing the holistic needs of our patients, we aim to support their overall health and wellness on their journey to recovery."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet

Therapeutic and Complementary Approaches

Our PHP offers a blend of evidence-based therapeutic approaches and complementary modalities. This helps address the complex needs of each client for a holistic recovery experience.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is beneficial in treating both mental health disorders and SUD. It’s based on the concept that mental processes influence behavior and emotions.

For example, when dealing with anxiety, depression, and phobias, CBT empowers people to identify and confront the negative thoughts that can result in these conditions.

In the context of substance use, CBT addresses the thought processes that contribute to addiction. It helps people recognize triggers and implement problem-solving skills. Ultimately, they learn to manage life’s challenges without resorting to substance use.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT in our PHP helps clients with:

Emotional dysregulation
Self-harm tendencies
Borderline personality disorder (which often coexists with substance use)

Research shows that after one year of DBT, 77% of people diagnosed with BPD no longer qualified for the diagnosis. This shows how important DBT is in treating various mental health conditions.⁵

Elements of DBT

Mindfulness makes up the core of DBT. It enhances present-moment awareness, which aids in emotional recognition without immediate reaction.

Additionally, dialectical behavioral therapy offers methods for managing cravings and avoiding relapse.

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

REBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier ways of thinking. A therapist works with clients to explore the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Through REBT techniques, participants learn to challenge negative thought patterns and develop a more positive outlook.

Imagine someone struggling with anxiety who thinks, “I’m going to mess up this presentation in front of everyone.” Using REBT, they can learn to challenge this thought with a more realistic one, like, “I’m prepared, and even if I make a mistake, it’s okay. I can learn from it and do better next time.”

Vocational Training and Support

Feeling productive and fulfilled is a crucial aspect of recovery. Our PHP recognizes this and offers vocational training and support services.

This may involve helping people:

Develop job search skills
Updating skills for a changing job market
Crafting strong resumes or practicing interview answers

The ultimate goal is to empower people to return to work or find meaningful employment that contributes to their sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

Recreational Therapy

Recreational therapy in our PHP is more than just fun and games. It’s a powerful tool that helps people:

Develop coping skills
Improve social interaction
Manage stress in healthy ways

The PHP offers a variety of recreational activities based on the client’s needs. These activities can be a great way to learn new skills, build confidence, and connect with others.

Nutritional Support and Counseling

Research shows that 57% of people feel better emotionally after talking to a dietitian. A healthy body is the foundation for a healthy mind. That’s why our PHP incorporates nutritional support and counseling services.⁶

Our on-site, highly qualified dietitian works with people to develop healthy eating habits. They might:

Explore the connection between food and mood
Create personalized meal plans that consider dietary needs and preferences
Offer guidance on making healthy food choices

By focusing on nutrition, participants can improve their energy levels and develop lasting, intuitive eating habits. As a result, they’re able to manage their symptoms and feel their best throughout the recovery process and long after treatment.

Partial Hospitalization Program Overview: Focus on Holistic Wellness and Recovery

Partial hospitalization programs recognize the connection of physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness in the recovery process. This holistic perspective ensures that treatment plans are not just symptom-focused but aim to improve quality of life.

Physical Wellness

Recognizing that a strong physical foundation can significantly impact mental recovery, partial hospitalization programs often incorporate:

Regular exercise to improve strength, endurance, and mood
Strategies to improve sleep patterns and quality

Emotional Wellness

To address the impact of emotional wellness on mental health and substance use, PHP plans include:

Skills to manage intense emotions without resorting to self-harm or substance use
Strategies to effectively manage stress and reduce anxiety
Interventions like CBT to challenge and change negative thought patterns

Spiritual Wellness

Spiritual wellness is an often overlooked aspect of recovery. But, it’s important for the healing of those who are feeling lost or disconnected due to their conditions.

Spiritual wellness techniques include:

Spaces to reflect on the inner thoughts to benefit from personal understanding and acceptance
Activities and discussions to help people rediscover a sense of purpose and connection

Lifestyle Interventions

Lifestyle interventions are critical for preventing relapse. Participants in the PHP learn various methods to manage stress, including:

Relaxation techniques
Exercise
Time management skills

These interventions provide tools to cope with life’s pressures without reverting to old patterns of behavior.

Begin Your Aftercare Journey with AM Behavioral Health

AM Behavioral Health provides high-quality care and innovative techniques through our partial hospitalization program.

Our integrative, whole-person approach focuses on addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery. This ensures that each person receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs.

We are committed to fostering an environment that promotes healing, growth, and lasting wellness.

Contacting Our Admissions Team

Our friendly and knowledgeable admissions staff is available to answer all your questions. They can help you determine if a PHP is right for you and discuss your treatment options.

Contact our admissions team today by calling 937-236-1800 or by filling out our confidential online inquiry form here.

Scheduling an Assessment

The first step toward recovery is a comprehensive assessment. This assessment will help us understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Call our admissions team to schedule an assessment or discuss scheduling options.

"The expected duration for a patient in our PHP varies depending on individual needs and progress in treatment. Typically, patients attend PHP for several weeks to a few months, with the goal of stabilizing their symptoms and developing coping skills for long-term recovery. We assess readiness for stepping down to a lower level of care through ongoing evaluation of the patient's progress, including improvements in symptom management, engagement in therapy, and social support network. Additionally, we collaborate closely with the patient, their treatment team, and any involved family members to ensure a smooth transition and continued support as they move to a lower level of care."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet

We’re excited to help you thrive.

Insurance and Payment Information

We understand that navigating insurance coverage can be confusing. Our admissions team can help you verify your insurance benefits.

Some insurance plans in-network with AM Behavioral Health include:

Aetna
Anthem
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna/Evernorth
Humana
HealthNet
Magellan Healthcare
Molina Healthcare
United Healthcare
UMPC
Ambetter
Multiplan
Tricare EAST- Humana

We believe in effective, affordable, and accessible mental healthcare. Reach out to see how we can help.

Take the First Step

We understand that the journey to recovery can feel overwhelming, but taking that first step is crucial.

AM Behavioral Health supports you through every stage of your journey. Exploring the options available within our PHP could be the key to unlocking a brighter, healthier future.

We encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and discover how we can help you achieve your wellness goals.

Start Your Journey to Healing Today

You are not alone. Help is available, and AM Behavioral Health is here to support you on your journey to recovery. Reach out to us today to take the first step toward a healthier, happier tomorrow.