Massachusetts Partial Hospitalization Program

A PHP is a highly supportive outpatient program that can provide you with both the scheduling flexibility you need, and the caring, comprehensive support required to achieve sobriety.

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?

A PHP is a highly supportive outpatient program that can provide you with both the scheduling flexibility you need, and the caring, comprehensive support required to achieve sobriety.

A PHP program provides a higher level of support than a standard outpatient program, but a lower level of support compared to an inpatient program. PHPs are often a good fit for those who are ready to get serious about recovery but may be unable to leave their daily responsibilities behind to attend inpatient treatment. When you choose a Massachusetts PHP, you’re getting a higher level of care than you would receive in an intensive outpatient program but with flexibility to return home at the end of the day.

While partial hospitalization programs are a good fit for many people who are looking for an alternative to inpatient treatment, a partial hospitalization program can also be a helpful option for those who already completed inpatient treatment and are looking for additional support as they transition back to day-to-day life. PHPs are generally not recommended for individuals who require more intensive treatment.

Benefits of a Partial Hospitalization Program

When you enter a PHP, you get the flexibility that you need to maintain your busy schedule, while also getting care and support from medical professionals as well as others on a similar path to recovery. Your personalized treatment plan will allow you to develop the skills necessary for your recovery and can provide an opportunity to allow you to practice your recovery skills during the hours you are not attending your PHP.

What to Expect in a PHP

Programming can differ from one PHP to another, and it’s important to reach out to the treatment facilities you’re considering to find the program that’s best for you.

To enter a Massachusetts PHP, you will need to be medically stabilized and will be required to receive counseling at least once each week—though the minimum number of counseling days varies, depending on individual circumstances.¹ Depending on your needs, your care team may ask that you attend medical detox at Adcare Hospital before entering your partial hospitalization program.

Typically, a PHP includes several hours of structured programming each day, providing individual, group, and family counseling.¹ Patients in PHPs also receive education on relapse prevention and may be offered family counseling to help their relatives better support their sobriety.¹

At Adware Worcester in Massachusetts, the knowledgeable addiction treatment team offers a wide range of services that fall under the umbrella of our PHP, including:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
• Motivational interviewing (MI).
• Group therapy.
• Family systems therapy.
• 12-Step programming.

What to Look for in a Massachusetts Partial Hospitalization Program

Choosing your rehab in Massachusetts is an important step toward recovery. It’s important to know what to look for when you’re calling to learn more about treatment programs.

A few items you’ll want to look for as you’re exploring treatment facilities include:

• Accreditation. When a facility is accredited, it means that an independent, non-profit agency has affirmed that the facility adheres to accepted treatment standards. Look for accreditation from organizations including The Joint Commission² and CARF³ to ensure that you’re getting the best treatment possible.
• Location. Convenience can help you stick to your treatment plan. Ensuring that your treatment facility is near your home or work can make it easier to stick to your PHP schedule.
• Staff. Your treatment facility should offer counseling and support from trained, credentialed, experienced professionals.
• Reviews. Reading reviews from former patients can provide you with valuable insight into what actually happens within a PHP program, and can help you determine which programs may be the right fit for you.
• Services offered. If you know a particular type of therapy works well for you, or you need certain amenities, you’ll want to make sure they’re offered at your treatment facility before you commit to a program.
• Special-population programs. If you’re a part of a marginalized or specialty population, including women, Veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, you may want to look for a treatment facility that offers care specific to your needs.
• Payment options. No matter what your financial situation, there is a way to get treatment. While exploring your options, be sure to ask about payment. Many facilities accept insurance, out-of-pocket payments, and credit and debit cards. Some facilities offer care on a sliding fee scale (based on your income), while others offer patient scholarships.

How Long Does a Partial Hospitalization Program Last?

PHP programs often last 6 to 8 weeks, with some programs lasting for more extended periods– though how long you participate in a partial hospitalization program will depend on your individual treatment plan and recovery goals. During the admissions process, your treatment team will discuss your options.

How Much Does a PHP for Drug or Alcohol Addiction Cost?

Many factors determine the cost of PHP, including the amount of time you’ll need to spend in treatment, the amenities available at your facility, your location, and more. Thankfully, many options can help you pay for your PHP. Health insurance, in almost all cases, covers some or all of the cost of rehab. If you do not have health insurance, you still have options, including private pay and government-funded rehab centers.

When you’re ready to begin your recovery journey, we’re here to support you every step of the way. American Addiction Centers is a premier provider of addiction-focused evidence-based healthcare, and we have helped thousands of people find hope and healing from addiction. Reach out to our team today at to learn more about your treatment options and for help verifying your insurance. Recovery is possible, so don’t wait.

Frequently Asked Questions