Types of Therapy in Partial Hospitalization for Addiction

Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are an effective form of addiction treatment that offers a level of care between inpatient and outpatient programs. PHPs are intensive, structured programs that provide a range of therapeutic interventions to help individuals overcome addiction.

One of the most critical components of PHPs is therapy. Therapy addresses the underlying issues that contribute to addiction and promotes sustainable recovery. We explore different types of therapy available in partial hospitalization for addiction and how they can benefit individuals seeking recovery.

Is Addiction a Chronic Disease?

Addiction is a chronic disease that damages the brain’s pleasure, reward, motivation, and memory centers. It is also known as substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder. These changes make it difficult for individuals to quit drugs or alcohol, even if they are causing harm to their lives. Individuals who receive professional treatment are better equipped to manage addiction and achieve long-term recovery. 

What Causes Addiction?

Extensive research has found many contributing factors, but no single cause of addiction exists. The most common and significant factors in a particular individual’s risk for developing an addiction include genetics, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Genetic factors are regarded as the most highly influential on the risk of developing addiction, but still not the sole cause. Those with immediate family members struggling with addictions are more likely to create one themselves. Stress, trauma, and peer pressure can increase the risk of addiction.

The most important thing to remember is that addiction is not a choice. Those struggling with addictions should find professional help to free themselves of it.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is one of the levels of care that falls directly between inpatient or “residential” treatment programs and outpatient care. PHP can provide the intensive treatment many patients require while transitioning from inpatient care to more individual independence.

People will attend treatment at the treatment center during the day while allowing them to return home or to their sober living facility at the end of the day. This helps them to maintain a level of responsibility while building healthy daily routines.

Types of Therapy in Partial Hospitalization for Addiction

Depending on the individual’s needs and dual-diagnosis or co-occurring disorders, various therapies are available for partial hospitalization programs. While each individual’s recovery plan will be unique to them, some of the therapies common to such programs include:

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, involves a mental health professional helping an individual identify and work toward changing negative or problematic behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. It includes individual therapy, behavioral therapy, and even family therapy. It is considered a fundamental component of every recovery program.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one type of talk therapy that focuses on helping individuals recognize and work to change their negative thought patterns and resulting behaviors. CBT is effective for challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with beneficial ones. CBT is standard for those with co-occurring disorders. 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT, or dialectical behavior therapy, focuses on emotional regulation, relationship improvement, and learning new life skills to help the individual cope with stress or other triggering situations. DBT is considered highly effective for those living with addiction and co-occurring disorders, as it teaches essential skills for managing challenging and intense emotions and behaviors.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing is a popular therapy that identifies and magnifies an individual’s reasons and motivation to change their behavior. It is frequently used with addiction treatment to help individuals who may be ambivalent or on the fence about their recovery, to build determination and a drive for change.

12-Step Facilitation

One of the most critical components to a successful recovery is attending 12-step program meetings. The principles of the 12-step program are most well-known due to Alcoholics Anonymous. Still, they can be applied to nearly any addiction. The meetings offer a safe place to share and discuss recovery while being free from judgment.

Yoga, Meditation, and Mindfulness

These three practices are often used with other addiction treatments to help individuals in recovery develop more holistically healthy emotions, bodies, and minds. Not only do they improve mental health, but they can be effective ways to communicate feelings and experiences without words.

Art and Music Therapy

Newer evidence-based therapies like art and music use creative expression to help individuals explore and work through challenging emotions. It is also useful for helping to facilitate self-discovery and improve mental health overall. 

Online Therapy

Who is a Candidate for a PHP?

PHPs are ideal for recovering individuals ready to step down from residential care but still require intense care while not requiring 24-hour care or monitoring. They help individuals who have precisely finished the detox stage and are medically stable. They are also helpful programs for anyone who wants to transition more effectively from inpatient to outpatient care. 

PHP at Massachusetts Center for Addiction

We implement treatment programs that incorporate CBT, DBT, and 12-step programs. We also offer holistic wellness programs like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. People partnering with us stand the best chance for long-term recovery. Reach out today to discuss your recovery needs with one of our mental health professionals, and begin planning your PHP today.