If you have graduated from inpatient treatment but still need some support and structure, a partial hospitalization program in California could be the right move for you. Partial hospitalization offers some level of structure but also more freedom than inpatient.
Questions people commonly ask about this subject include:
- Differences between an PHP vs IOP
- What is a partial hospitalization program?
- Where can I find PHP treatment near me?
- What is PHP treatment in California like?
This guide will go into further detail on what you need to know.
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Call 866-881-1184What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a structured, intensive form of outpatient treatment for individuals struggling with substance use or mental health disorders. PHP treatment in California offers many of the same therapies and services as inpatient rehab, but allows clients to return home or to a sober living environment at the end of each day.
At South Coast Behavioral Health, our PHP in California provides a step-down level of care for those transitioning from detox or residential treatment, or for individuals who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy. Clients typically attend treatment five to six days per week for several hours per day, creating a balance between clinical care and real-world recovery.
What Conditions Do PHPs Treat?
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) are designed to treat a range of mental health and substance use disorders, offering comprehensive support without the need for 24/7 inpatient care. At South Coast Behavioral Health, our California PHP addresses conditions such as:
- Substance use disorders, including alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and polysubstance abuse
- Mood disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, and more
- Clinical anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and OCD
- Trauma-related disorders such as PTSD and other forms of trauma stemming from abuse, loss, or crisis
And more.
A partial hospitalization program in California offers structured daily therapy, psychiatric support, medication management, and relapse prevention, helping clients stabilize and gain momentum in their recovery journey, especially during the critical transition between inpatient and outpatient care.
How Long Is a Typical PHP?
The length of a partial hospitalization program in California can vary depending on individual needs, progress, and the severity of the condition being treated. However, most PHPs last anywhere from two to six weeks, with clients attending treatment five to six days per week for about five to six hours each day.
At South Coast Behavioral Health, we tailor the duration of our PHP in California to fit each client’s recovery goals. Some individuals may need a few weeks of structured support before stepping down to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), while others may benefit from a longer stay to address more complex or co-occurring disorders.
The focus is always on sustainable healing—so your time in PHP is determined by progress, not a fixed schedule.
Looking for quality substance abuse treatment that’s also affordable? South Coast accepts most major insurance providers. Get a free insurance benefits check now.
Check Your CoveragePHP vs Residential Treatment
While both Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and residential treatment in California offer intensive support for individuals recovering from addiction or mental health disorders, they differ in structure, setting, and level of supervision.
Residential Treatment:
- 24/7 care in a live-in facility
- Highly structured daily schedule
- Ideal for those in early recovery or with severe symptoms
- Provides a safe, substance-free environment with round-the-clock support
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP):
- Daytime treatment, return home or to sober living at night
- Still intensive—typically five to six hours per day, five to six days a week
- Ideal for those stepping down from inpatient care or needing more than outpatient therapy
- Offers more independence while maintaining strong clinical support
A California PHP bridges the gap between residential and outpatient care, helping clients continue healing while reintegrating into daily life with structure and accountability.
PHP vs IOP: What’s the Difference?
Partial hospitalization in California has some similarities to California IOPs, as both are outpatient levels of care, but differ in terms of intensity, time commitment, and clinical support.
Orange County Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP):
- More intensive than IOP
- Typically involves five to six hours of treatment per day, five to six days a week
- Offers medical oversight, psychiatric care, and structured therapy
- Ideal for individuals transitioning from inpatient care or needing stabilization
Orange County Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP):
- More flexible than PHP
- Usually includes three to four hours of therapy per day, three to five days a week
- Best for clients who have progressed in recovery but still need support
- Allows more time for work, school, or family responsibilities
When it comes to considering the merits of PHP vs IOP, the key is to consider what level of flexibility and freedom you think you are ready for. Some people may require somewhat less structure; for them, an IOP in Orange County may be better. A partial hospitalization program in California is the right fit when you need structure and medical support, while IOP offers step-down care with greater independence.
Who Should Consider a Partial Hospitalization Program in California?
Partial hospitalization in California is ideal for individuals who need intensive, structured treatment but don’t require 24-hour supervision. It’s often the right choice for someone stepping down from inpatient rehab or recovering from a recent mental health or substance use crisis. PHP treatment in California provides the stability and support necessary to continue healing while gradually returning to daily responsibilities.
At South Coast Behavioral Health, our Orange County PHP is designed for people who are ready to do the serious work (counseling, group therapy, medication management, etc.) required for recovery while still maintaining a degree of independence. It’s a strong fit for those who need more than weekly outpatient sessions but are not in immediate danger of harming themselves or others.
If you or a loved one are seeking structure, accountability, and clinical guidance while still retaining some free time outside of a facility, PHP treatment in California can offer a crucial next step in your recovery journey.
How to Get Started With a PHP Addiction Program Near You
Starting a partial hospitalization program in California may feel overwhelming, but the process is straightforward, and you don’t have to go through it alone. At South Coast Behavioral Health, we’re here to walk you through every step.
The first stage is a confidential assessment, where our clinical team evaluates your medical history, substance use, mental health, and treatment goals. This helps us determine whether PHP vs IOP treatment is the right move for you. Once admitted, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan that includes daily group therapy, individual counseling, psychiatric care, and holistic support tailored to your needs.
If you are in California, looking for PHP treatment near you, our Orange County drug and alcohol rehab is a great option for you. If you do not live in California and thus would need to travel for treatment, South Coast is happy to assist with travel arrangements.We also assist with verifying insurance and connecting you with sober living if needed.
If you or someone you love is ready to begin treatment, reach out today. Our California PHP program provides the structure, support, and clinical care you need to move forward—one day at a time.
