Partial Hospitalization Program

California has several types of substance abuse treatment facilities available for recovery from private non-profit, private for-profit, local, state-funded, federal-funded, and tribal-funded. According to a survey conducted in 2017 by the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS), they found:

• 90% of clients were being treated for both alcohol and drug abuse
• 82% of clients were being treated for drug abuse only
• 72% of clients were being treated for alcohol abuse only

Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) had an average of 3,170 clients per facility, with approximately 242 facilities available for treatment.

Partial hospitalization programs provide clients with a consistent schedule while receiving outpatient treatment services. Without having to check into inpatient care, clients can still receive quality treatment without 24-hour monitoring. Partial hospitalization programs can treat individuals with dual diagnoses, such as substance abuse disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions. There is tremendous value in a PHP option as it gives individuals an opportunity to focus on a treatment plan with the right structure in place.

Partial Hospitalization Program, otherwise known as a PHP or a day treatment program, is the highest level of care provided at Crescent Moon Recovery. The program is most suitable for participants who require a more encompassing treatment program with a consistent schedule, structure, and plan. It is an alternative to an inpatient hospital stay but much more intensive than standard outpatient treatments.

• Individuals with mental health disorders
• Individuals with lingering withdrawal symptoms
• Individuals with a lack of support outside of treatment
• Individuals who have completed a residential treatment program but still need support

Our co-ed PHP program is most suitable for patients coming from a detox clinic, an inpatient residential treatment center, or those who need more than a basic level of care. Partial hospitalization programs are a step down from a residential treatment that provides 24-hour medical care for the management of behaviors and is similar to our intensive outpatient treatment program. A typical program will entail 20-30 hours of treatment per week.

The length of a PHP can vary depending on the client’s needs and situation.  For example, someone who is struggling with a co-occurring disorder may require different therapies and medication and will be referred for our dual diagnosis treatment program.

PHP treatment in California typically lasts 30 days; however, the duration can be longer in some instances. The program is 5 days per week and approximately 4-6 hours each day. At the end of each day, the participant will return home.

Crescent Moon Recovery has licensed professionals trained in many therapeutic backgrounds, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), adventure therapy, and trauma therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy equips the participant with awareness to change false or distressing beliefs. 

Engaging in outdoor activities or adventure therapy has shown significant improvements in mental and physical health. Trauma therapy focuses on the individual’s reactions to stress stemming from trauma and learning how to regulate emotions when triggered.

Participants work through 12-Step facilitation therapy at Crescent Moon Recovery, where they are actively involved with 12-Step self-help groups and working the Steps in their life. 12-Step facilitation therapy focuses on three key ideas: 1. Acceptance of drug addiction as a chronic disease; 2. Surrender to a higher power; and 3. Staying active in the 12-Step groups and activities. 12-Step facilitation groups foster support, encouragement, and a safe environment for individuals to share and relate to each other through their stories.

Structure and a consistent routine are essential to long-term recovery and staying sober. In recovery, a routine means setting goals and staying committed to them. Organization and predictability help participants reduce stress and cope more effectively. Establishing healthy habits helps to create new behaviors and improves mood and overall well-being. Getting enough sleep, taking care of your mental health, cultivating a meditation practice, attending weekly therapy sessions and support groups, and being of service are integral parts of living a healthy life and maintaining recovery.

After completing a partial hospitalization program, it is essential for an individual to have a plan to maintain sobriety and stay active in their treatment goals.  Aftercare services can help prevent relapse and stay focused on their recovery. Types of aftercare services include:

• Transitioning to an outpatient program (OP)
• Staying active in 12-Step facilitation programs
• Staying at a sober living facility
• Individual or group counseling
• Pursuing education on new skills or vocations
• Job placement
• Continued check-ins and sessions with healthcare professionals
• Alumni activities
• Educational classes and lectures

This continued ongoing support is very beneficial to participants in our programs and allows them to receive the support and accountability needed to achieve their goals for recovery. Aftercare services can vary in length for each individual and depend on a person's progress in recovery. As such, some individuals may need these services for months, years, or even a lifetime.

There can be risks for not having aftercare services. These risks can be:

• Greater possibility of relapse
• Increased possibility of overdose if relapse occurs
• Lack of support networks
• Lack of resources to build confidence
• Lack of community for accountability and connection

Aftercare services can help the participant transition back into the “real world” with more ease and a plan of action that can help them feel more confident in their recovery. This can include setting goals and criteria to measure progress, maintaining awareness of resources and services in the community, and continuing to maintain a healthy and sober lifestyle.