Partial Hospitalization Program

Structured, intensive outpatient mental health treatment program that provides a higher level of support than traditional therapy but less intensive than inpatient care, allowing patients to live at home while attending daily treatment sessions

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

PHP is a structured, intensive outpatient program designed for individuals with mental health conditions who require more support than traditional outpatient therapy but don't need 24/7 inpatient care

What Services are provided?

Expert Daytime Care Close to Home

One-on-one counseling/therapy
Group therapy
Skills training
Medication management
Educational classes
Nursing or physical healthcare
Care coordination
Aftercare and relapse prevention planning
Family therapy
Creative therapies, such as music or art therapy

Length & Duration

Partial hospitalization programs typically last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours each day, up to 5 days a week. You commute to and from your treatment program each day. Some programs also have a telehealth option so you can participate virtually. Depending on your symptoms, you may spend weeks to several months in a PHP.

What are the advantages of a PHP?

Comprehensive Mental Health Care

Designed so you can access therapy, medication management, and other health services all in one place.

More Flexibility

Flexibility to work or attend school.

Lower Costs

A PHP usually costs less than inpatient care.

Conditions treated in a PHP

Examples of conditions that can be treated in a PHP setting include:

Who should consider a partial hospitalization program?

PHPs are for people with mental health conditions who need more structure and support than outpatient care can provide.

You might benefit from a PHP if:

You need a higher level of care for your mental health condition.
You’re having trouble functioning in day-to-day life.
You’re at risk for a mental health relapse.
Your symptoms aren’t well-managed, or you’re not improving from regular outpatient visits with a psychiatrist or therapist.

In some cases, a PHP may be an alternative to an inpatient hospitalization. A PHP can also serve as a “step-down” option after you’re released from the hospital or a residential program. This can help you gradually adjust back to your everyday life with plenty of support.

Does insurance cover?

Yes, health insurance usually covers PHPs.

However, your health insurance coverage will depend on the insurance plan you have. For example, your insurance company might not pay for PHP if you choose a program that’s out of network. You may also have higher coinsurance and copayments depending on where you go.

Also, keep in mind that your health insurance company will often require preauthorization for a PHP. This means you will need a letter of medical necessity, usually from someone already on your healthcare team. The letter should state the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a condition.

Paying Privately?

The cost for PHPs can vary widely depending on the program and where you live. Many programs cost a few hundred dollars a day, but this can be higher at some facilities.

Some of the factors that impact the costs include: