Are you looking to learn how to start a partial hospitalization program? At Right Path Rehab, our partial hospitalization programs offer a full day of therapeutic services, including individual therapy, group counseling, medication management, and holistic support, led by a multidisciplinary treatment team. This team includes licensed therapists, psychiatrists, medical professionals, and case managers who collaborate to create a personalized care plan based on your unique needs and goals.
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
If you’re searching for structured support that meets you where you are in recovery, a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) may be the answer. PHPs are a form of intensive treatment designed for individuals who need more than outpatient therapy can offer—but don’t require the 24/7 supervision of inpatient treatment.
At Right Path Rehab, we offer partial hospitalization services in San Diego for individuals navigating substance use, mental health conditions, or dual diagnoses. Whether you’re stepping down from detox or inpatient care, or looking for a proactive alternative to hospitalization, our program bridges the gap—providing high-level support while allowing you to return home or to a sober living environment each night.
How Partial Hospitalization Programs Work
Unlike traditional outpatient care, which may involve just a few hours of therapy per week, a partial hospitalization program delivers a full day of clinical services, typically five days a week. Our clients benefit from the structure and intensity of a hospitalization program, while staying connected to everyday life and personal responsibilities.
Right Path Rehab’s PHP combines the accountability of a treatment center with the flexibility to support your transition into long-term recovery. Each day includes access to a multidisciplinary care team—licensed therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, and case managers—all working together to support your healing journey.
How to Start a Partial Hospitalization Program at Right Path Rehab
Starting treatment can be intimidating—but when you know what to expect, it becomes a powerful first step. If you’re seeking more intensive treatment than traditional outpatient therapy offers but don’t need full-time inpatient care, a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) might be the right fit. These structured programs provide a balanced approach to treating substance use disorders, mental health disorders, or both—giving you access to professional care while allowing you to return home each day.
At Right Path Rehab, we help individuals begin partial hospitalization programs with clarity, confidence, and compassionate guidance. Our PHP in San Diego offers full-day outpatient services designed to stabilize symptoms, develop coping skills, and set a foundation for lasting recovery. Covered by many health insurance providers, partial hospitalization services are an accessible, high-impact way to take control of your mental health and wellness.
Step 1: Reach Out for a Confidential Assessment
The first step in how to start a partial hospitalization program is a confidential assessment with our admissions team. This initial conversation helps us determine whether PHP is the right level of care based on your treatment needs and goals.
We’ll review your:
- History of substance use or mental health disorders and other key factors
- Prior engagement with other programs like inpatient treatment or outpatient services
- Co-occurring diagnoses and specific needs
- Current medications and physical health
- Emotional needs and support system
Our multidisciplinary team uses this information to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your clinical profile. We’ll also walk you through your insurance coverage, so you understand what’s included and what options are available for care.
Step 2: Prepare for the Transition
Once you’re accepted into our PHP, the next step is preparing to begin intensive treatment. Because PHP involves several hours of therapy and support services five days a week over the span of a few months, planning ahead helps ensure you’re fully present for the process.
Helpful preparation steps include:
- Arranging daily transportation to and from our San Diego facility
- Adjusting your work or personal schedule for full engagement
- Creating a safe, substance-free home or choosing sober living
- Gathering ID, insurance, medical records, and current medications
- Confirming insurance benefits and any out-of-pocket costs
- Reflecting on your treatment goals—like managing emotions, gaining stability, or avoiding relapse
This preparation sets the stage for success and gives you the peace of mind to focus on healing.
Step 3: Attend Orientation and Begin Partial Hospitalization Program PHP
Your first day in the hospitalization program starts with orientation. You’ll meet your treatment team, tour the facility, and receive a personalized daily schedule based on your treatment plan.
A typical day in our PHP includes:
- Individual Therapy: Explore emotional triggers, develop self-awareness, and work toward your recovery goals
- Group Counseling: Connect with peers and build social support while developing emotional regulation and communication skills
- Medication Management: If applicable, our medical team monitors and adjusts medications to support mental health stabilization
- Psychoeducation: Learn about substance use disorders, emotion influences, relapse prevention, and wellness strategies
- Holistic Activities: Depending on your needs, this may include mindfulness, art therapy, movement, or nutrition workshops
Our PHP provides more intensive treatment than traditional outpatient therapy, with the flexibility to live at home while still benefiting from a structured environment.
Step 4: Engage, Reflect, and Grow in Individual Needs
Once you’re actively participating in PHP, consistency becomes key. By attending each day and staying engaged in therapy, you’ll build the emotional resilience and coping skills necessary for lasting recovery.
We continually assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to reflect your evolving needs. You’ll meet regularly with your therapist and case manager to reflect on what’s working, navigate challenges, and stay focused on your goals.
Whether you’re managing substance abuse, mental health disorders, or both, our PHP helps you gain control, practice new behaviors, and grow into the next version of yourself.
Step 5: Plan for the Next Phase of Behavioral Health and Substance Use Treatment Plan
As you complete the program, your care team will help you transition into the next appropriate level of support. This ensures that the progress you’ve made during intensive treatment continues beyond your time in PHP.
Your next steps may include:
- Stepping down to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Continuing individual therapy or medication management
- Joining community support groups or 12-step programs
- Developing a personalized relapse prevention plan
- Coordinating with outside providers for long-term care
This transition is part of a larger continuum of care designed to reduce the risk of relapse and support ongoing mental health and recovery success.
At Right Path Rehab, our partial hospitalization programs are built around one simple goal: to help you regain stability, develop lifelong coping skills, and reclaim your life. If you’re ready to begin, our admissions team is here to guide you through every step—because healing doesn’t start with perfection, it starts with a plan.
Begin Your Journey Today
Starting a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) can feel overwhelming, especially when you or a loved one is facing the challenges of substance use disorders or co-occurring behavioral health conditions. At Right Path Rehab, you are never alone. Our compassionate, experienced team is committed to supporting you throughout the entire process of receiving treatment, from the initial assessment to completing the program and beyond.
We understand that each person’s journey is unique, which is why our care is tailored to your individual needs, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of substance use and mental health recovery. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or reaching out on behalf of a loved one, our team provides the expertise, encouragement, and personalized care necessary to foster lasting healing.
Take the courageous first step toward recovery—contact us today or explore more about our Partial Hospitalization Program in San Diego.
Recovery is possible, and it begins with one decision. When you’re ready, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.
FAQs About PHP, Coverage, and Care at Right Path Rehab
Understanding the ins and outs of a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) can help you feel more confident as you take the first steps toward personalized, effective treatment for mental health or substance use recovery.
Works Cited
Miller, Peter M. “Book Review: Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment.” Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy, vol. 5, no. 1, 2010, p. 6, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2848466/.
