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Partial Hospitalization (PHP) in Virginia

11 facilities offering this level of care

What is Partial Hospitalization (PHP)?

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), sometimes called day treatment, provide intensive, hospital-level treatment during the day while allowing participants to return home in the evenings. Participants typically attend 5-7 days per week for 5-8 hours per day.

PHP offers a structured treatment environment with access to psychiatric services, medical monitoring, intensive therapy, and comprehensive programming. This level of care bridges the gap between 24-hour residential treatment and less intensive outpatient options.

In Virginia, PHP services are often offered through hospital systems and specialized behavioral health facilities. They may serve as a step-down from inpatient care or as a higher level of care for those who need more support than IOP provides.

Who is Partial Hospitalization (PHP) For?

PHP may be appropriate for individuals stepping down from residential or inpatient treatment who need continued intensive support, those who require daily monitoring but have stable housing, people with co-occurring mental health conditions needing intensive integrated treatment, or individuals whose needs exceed what IOP can provide but who don't require 24-hour care.

Participants should have safe, stable housing to return to each evening and support for transportation to and from the program.

Questions to Ask a Provider

  • What are the program hours and days of operation?
  • What psychiatric and medical services are available?
  • How do you coordinate with my other healthcare providers?
  • What therapeutic approaches are used in the program?
  • How long do participants typically stay in PHP?
  • What criteria determine readiness to step down to IOP or outpatient?
  • What meals or snacks are provided?
  • Is transportation assistance available?

How to Verify Quality

  • Verify the program is licensed and accredited appropriately for this level of care
  • Confirm access to psychiatric and medical services
  • Ask about staff credentials, including psychiatrists, therapists, and nurses
  • Inquire about integration of mental health and addiction treatment
  • Understand insurance coverage and authorization requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PHP and IOP?

PHP is more intensive than IOP, typically involving 5-7 days per week and 5-8 hours per day, compared to IOP's 3-5 days and 3-4 hours. PHP often includes more medical and psychiatric oversight.

How long is a PHP program?

PHP duration varies by individual need, typically ranging from 2-4 weeks. Some individuals may need longer based on their progress and clinical needs.

Can I work while in PHP?

Due to the intensive daily schedule, maintaining full-time work during PHP is challenging. Some people may be able to work part-time or take temporary leave. Discuss your situation with your treatment team.

Is PHP covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover PHP, though prior authorization is often required. Coverage and duration limits vary by plan. Work with the program and your insurance to understand your benefits.

What happens in PHP each day?

A typical PHP day may include group therapy, individual sessions, psychoeducation, medication management, wellness activities, and meals. Programming is designed to be comprehensive and therapeutic.

What happens after PHP?

After PHP, most individuals step down to IOP, standard outpatient treatment, or continue with ongoing therapy and support groups. Discharge planning begins early in treatment.