Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction requires more than willpower. It often demands clinical care, structure, and support—especially in the early stages. However, not every person needs 24-hour residential treatment. And many can’t step away from work, school, or family responsibilities. That’s where a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers a powerful solution.

At Living Longer Recovery, we offer a clinically focused PHP near Desert Hot Springs to help clients stabilize and progress in recovery while maintaining some independence. Located in a peaceful, luxurious setting, our facility is ideal for clients in Southern California, Riverside County, and from around the country. If you’re exploring levels of care and wondering, “What is a PHP in addiction rehab?” this comprehensive guide provides the answer.

The Role of a Partial Hospitalization Program

A Partial Hospitalization Program is a highly structured outpatient treatment option that offers the intensity of inpatient care without requiring an overnight stay. It’s often recommended for clients transitioning from residential treatment or for those who need focused, daily support but have a safe, stable home environment.

At Living Longer Recovery, our PHP includes multiple therapy sessions each day, five to six days per week. Clients work closely with counselors, case managers, medical professionals, and peers in a schedule built around recovery. The program is intensive but allows individuals to return home or to sober living each night.

The benefit of PHP is that it offers a strong balance between clinical support and real-world application. Clients begin applying the tools they’ve learned during therapy while receiving frequent feedback and guidance. This helps reinforce progress and reduce the risk of relapse.

Who Is PHP For?

The adult partial hospitalization program is well-suited for individuals who don’t need round-the-clock supervision but do require a high level of therapeutic engagement. It’s often used by those stepping down from residential care or for individuals who are entering treatment after relapse and need more structure than outpatient care offers.

Clients with co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder may also benefit from PHP. It allows them to receive daily support for both addiction and mental health without the restrictions of complete inpatient rehab.

For example, a client who has completed detox and is medically stable but still experiences intense cravings or emotional distress would likely be a good candidate. Similarly, someone who struggles with daily routines, relationships, or decision-making due to addiction may find the support and routine of PHP helpful in developing new patterns and habits.

At Living Longer Recovery, we conduct a complete clinical and medical assessment to determine whether PHP is the right level of care. We also consider lifestyle needs and previous treatment history when making these decisions.

What Happens During a PHP Day?

A typical day in our partial hospitalization program near Desert Hot Springs begins with structured clinical activities. Clients arrive in the morning and stay through the afternoon. Each day may include a variety of individual therapy sessions, group discussions, medication management, and integrative therapies.

Individual therapy forms the backbone of the treatment experience. Our licensed therapists work with clients to identify triggers, develop coping skills, and process past trauma. We use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help address thought patterns and behaviors tied to substance use.

Group therapy provides another layer of support. These sessions foster peer connection, accountability, and shared insight. Topics may include relapse prevention, emotional regulation, goal setting, family relationships, and communication skills.

Medication support is provided when needed, particularly for clients with dual diagnoses. Those with co-occurring mental health conditions receive treatment for both issues concurrently.

We incorporate therapeutic movement, mindfulness, and expressive therapies such as art to promote full-person healing. These activities allow clients to connect with their emotional state in ways that talk therapy may not reach. Throughout the day, clients also work on life skills—practical strategies that help with long-term recovery, like time management, financial planning, and setting healthy boundaries.

Meals and short breaks are included to help clients maintain energy and process what they’re learning. Clients then return to their homes or sober living residences.

PHP vs. Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care

Understanding where PHP fits in the continuum of care is essential. It balances the intensity of inpatient treatment and the flexibility of outpatient care.

Inpatient rehab is typically the most intensive level. Clients live on-site and receive 24-hour supervision, making it ideal for those in early recovery or dealing with medical or psychiatric instability.

Outpatient treatment, by contrast, involves attending therapy one to three times per week. It’s best for those who have already completed higher levels of care and are working to maintain recovery while resuming everyday responsibilities.

PHP lies in the middle. It allows for daytime clinical engagement and evening independence. At Living Longer Recovery, PHP clients benefit from both worlds: structure, support, and opportunities to practice recovery skills in real life.

Clients often step down from inpatient care to PHP and then into outpatient treatment. This gradual transition supports long-term success and reduces the chance of relapse.

Why Choose PHP at Living Longer Recovery?

At Living Longer Recovery, our addiction rehab center offers more than clinical care—we provide a healing environment. Located in Desert Hot Springs, our facility includes large patios, a pool, comfortable accommodations, and thoughtfully designed spaces for recovery. This setting allows clients to focus on healing without outside pressures.

The clinical care is grounded in best practices. Our team includes licensed addiction counselors, medical professionals, and mental health therapists, all working together to support the client. We maintain small group sizes, allowing for more personalized attention and deeper therapeutic connections.

What sets our addiction rehab facility apart is our ability to treat the whole person. We understand that addiction affects every aspect of life—physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and personal identity. That’s why our program addresses each of these areas. We don’t just help people stop using drugs or alcohol—we help them rebuild a meaningful life.

Clients come to us nationwide from throughout California for private, focused care. Many are professionals, parents, or individuals who want a high standard of treatment in a calm, luxurious setting.

From Detox to PHP: A Seamless Transition

Many clients begin their treatment experience with medical detox, which we provide on-site. Detox is the process of safely withdrawing from drugs or alcohol under medical supervision. Our team manages symptoms and ensures client comfort during this challenging phase.

After detox, clients move into PHP or inpatient care, depending on their needs. Receiving all levels of care within the exact center benefits clients by allowing them to experience fewer disruptions and build relationships with a consistent treatment team.

From opioid detox, fentanyl detox, alcohol detox, to drug detox, we support clients through this first step and beyond. Our integrated care model ensures that each recovery phase supports the next, creating a strong foundation for sustained sobriety.

Moving Forward After PHP

When clients complete PHP, they’re not left on their own. Many transition into our outpatient program, which offers continued therapy with even greater flexibility. Others move into sober living housing or return home with a relapse prevention plan.

We also provide alumni support and referrals to recovery communities, support groups, and wellness activities in their area. Our team remains available for follow-up care and periodic check-ins.

The goal is not just to complete treatment, but to build a life of purpose, peace, and health. PHP is a critical part of that process, offering the structure people need at a key stage in their recovery.

Contact Living Longer Recovery Today

If you’re looking for a partial hospitalization program that combines clinical excellence, personal respect, and a peaceful setting, Living Longer Recovery can help. Whether you’re stepping down from inpatient rehab or need more than outpatient support, our PHP offers focused care in a beautiful Southern California setting.

Reach out today to speak with our admissions team. We’ll help you understand your options, answer questions, and start you or your loved one on the path to recovery.

FAQs

1. How long is the PHP program?

While the exact timeline depends on a client’s needs, PHP programs at Living Longer Recovery typically last 15 to 30 days. The treatment team assesses each client’s goals and clinical progress to determine the best duration.

2. What does PHP level of care mean?

PHP is considered a step down from inpatient rehab but more intensive than standard outpatient care. It provides daily therapeutic engagement, medical oversight, and support for co-occurring disorders, making it ideal for clients transitioning out of detox or residential treatment.

3. How long does a PHP last?

The length of a PHP varies based on individual progress and clinical recommendations. Most programs last two to four weeks, with clients attending treatment five to six days per week for several hours daily.

4. Is PHP covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover PHP. Living Longer Recovery’s admissions staff will help verify coverage and explain the details.

5. What does PHP mean in rehab?

In addiction rehab, PHP stands for Partial Hospitalization Program. It refers to a structured level of treatment that offers clinical therapy, psychiatric care, and behavioral support during the day while allowing clients to return home or to sober living in the evening.