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Partial Hospitalization Program in Athens, GA

If you need a high level of support without residential treatment, our Athens partial hospitalization program provides structured, evidence-based care designed to help you build a strong foundation for recovery. Following a comprehensive clinical assessment, we develop an individualized treatment plan that may include counseling, group therapy, education, relapse prevention, and ongoing clinical support. For many people, a partial hospitalization program offers the intensive care they need while allowing them to return home each day and remain connected to their families and communities when clinically appropriate.

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Athens Area Commencement Center specializes in multiple levels of care beneath inpatient residential rehab. If you’ve recently completed a residential treatment program, or if you feel you do not require residential care, a partial hospitalization program (PHP) may be a good option for you. Read on to find out more about PHP and the care we offer at Athens Area Commencement Center.

What Is Partial Hospitalization?

PHPs are a type of intensive outpatient care that does not require clients to live at the treatment center for any amount of time. Treatment is administered at the facility, typically during the day, and clients return home in the evenings. PHP is typically considered a step down from residential rehab and can be used as a transition into less intensive care. 

A PHP is the most intensive care option outside of residential inpatient treatment. It is designed to address moderate to severe cases of substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health issues. However, if your case requires 24/7 care and monitoring, PHP may not be the right choice for you. 

The goal is to address the immediate issues and challenges associated with addiction while allowing individuals to maintain a connection with their communities and support networks. By providing a structured and supportive environment, PHP aims to help individuals develop coping skills, manage cravings, and work towards sustained recovery. These programs are an essential part of the continuum of care for addiction treatment. They offer a more intensive option for those who may not require inpatient care but need more support than outpatient services alone can provide.

Goals of PHP

The goals of PHP in the context of addiction treatment are multifaceted, aiming to provide comprehensive support and intervention for individuals dealing with SUD. First and foremost, PHP seeks to stabilize individuals who may be experiencing acute symptoms of addiction or co-occurring mental health issues. This involves managing and alleviating immediate crisis situations, such as severe withdrawal symptoms or emotional distress.

PHP aims to foster a sense of community and support among participants. Group therapy sessions provide opportunities for individuals to share their experiences, gain insights from others facing similar struggles, and build a network of understanding and encouragement. Through a combination of individual and group therapy sessions, participants learn to identify triggers, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges.

Partial hospitalization is considered level 2.5 care by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). According to their standards, the goals of PHP include:

  • Achieving abstinence 
  • Improving coping skills
  • Developing problem-solving skills
  • Participating in community support systems 
  • Identifying psychosocial issues
  • Developing a positive social network

The goals of your time in PHP may differ from these, or you may have additional goals that you wish to achieve. Either way, your care team will aid you in working toward making your goals a reality. Treatment is individualized for each client at Athens Area Commencement Center. We strive to make your recovery journey work for your unique needs. 

Who Benefits From PHP?

Partial hospitalization sounds intimidating, but it can be extremely beneficial for many people with SUD. It’s a program that provides you with frequent care and support while still giving you the freedom to participate in everyday activities. This might be a good option for parents who don’t have childcare in the evenings and overnight.

PHP is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing acute symptoms of addiction, such as severe withdrawal or emotional distress, as these programs provide a comprehensive and immediate response to crisis situations. Additionally, individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders find value in PHPs, as these programs often integrate psychiatric evaluations and dual diagnosis treatment to address both substance use and mental health issues simultaneously.

PHP is also a great choice if you feel like you aren’t ready to commit to full residential rehab. We understand that the stigma of inpatient care can make that decision difficult. That’s not to mention the time, energy, and potential financial loss that can come with residential rehab. If you’re not ready for that step, that’s okay. What’s important is that you’re reaching out for help. PHP is a good option to consider if you’re experiencing these common mental obstacles.

Detoxification typically isn’t part of the process in PHP. For that reason, PHP is designed for individuals who have already completed the detox process or do not require it. Detox is usually required in cases of severe SUD and some moderate cases. If you’re unsure whether you need to undergo detox, our team can help you determine this during your consultation.

What to Expect in PHP

At Athens Area Commencement Center, our PHP functions similarly to our daytime adult intensive outpatient programs (IOP). Treatment takes place six days a week, Monday through Saturday, three to six hours every day. During this time, you’ll talk with a variety of professionals on our team, from counselors to licensed nurses. You’ll undergo physical and mental health assessments, take part in talk therapy and group therapy, and discuss the next steps of your recovery journey. 

Here are some other aspects that may be included in your PHP, depending on your individual needs and goals:

  • Family involvement and counseling
  • Vocational training and employment services
  • 24-hour crisis resources
  • Drug and alcohol testing
  • Addiction education
  • Relapse prevention training 
  • Medical treatment for physical or mental issues
  • Medication management 
  • Discharge planning/transition management

If you or someone you love is in need of intensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, consider our partial hospitalization program (PHP) at Athens Area Commencement Center. We can provide the support and individualized care you need to get and stay sober. Call us at (706) 546-7355.