The teen years are naturally challenging. Young adults and their families realize that they are no longer children and not yet adults. Teens are discovering and acknowledging their identities and planning for their futures. Yet along the way, nearly 25% of American adolescents are sometimes met with challenges such as mental health or substance use disorders. In both cases, treatment is necessary to support teens in learning how to navigate their traumas. Destinations for Teens offers two options for treatment: residential and partial hospitalization programs.
What Is a PHP?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is for teens dealing with mental health and substance use disorders. Teens will attend a program three to five days per week and participate in various treatment sessions, returning home after their daily sessions. PHP is an alternative to an inpatient program. But can also be used as a transition from an inpatient treatment program to support further recovery. When considering if you should choose a PHP vs. residential program, consider these benefits:
- Teens will have the ability to stay connected to their daily routines
- Consistent access to mental health therapists and peer support
- Structured and intense treatment
- Treatment programs focus on a teen’s recovery process
What Is Residential Treatment?
There are some significant differences between a residential treatment program and a PHP. In a residential treatment program, teens will remain at a facility for a specific period. Typically residential stays last between 30 to 90 days. In a residential program, teens will attend therapy sessions, participate in activities with their peers and attend an educational program. When considering if you should choose a residential program vs. PHP, think of these benefits:
- Ability to focus only on overcoming substance use disorder or healing from traumas associated with mental health.
- Support from medical practitioners and mental health therapists
- Recover from past traumas and focus on the future
Residential Program vs. a PHP for Your Teen
Choosing between a PHP vs. a residential program is not easy. To make a decision, you must consider your teen’s needs and the support you can provide them throughout their process. A PHP might be suitable for your teen if they are:
- Challenged with performing well in school or other activities
- Eager to participate in a treatment program
- In need of dual diagnosis treatment
- Not in need of intense medical treatment
- Supported by family
- Minimal risk of harming themselves or others
However, residential treatment can offer safety with 24-hour medical supervision to protect them from physical and emotional triggers. These programs can also help them focus on success in a serene environment. Teens will also develop new skills and creative outlets to help them manage sobriety after leaving. These are just some of the concepts families will have to consider when weighing their options. Choosing a residential program vs. PHP for a young adult means that your family will need to consider their needs.
Find the Right Treatment Program with Destinations for Teens
Whether your teen needs mental or substance use disorder treatment, Destinations for Teens is here to help. Often, families will consider whether a residential program vs. a PHP will serve their teen best. The correct answer considers the needs of your teen. After all, your teen will need the time and space to learn to manage their emotions to learn positive coping skills that will support them through adulthood. As your family decides between a PHP vs. a residential program, it is wise to discuss your options with caring and supportive staff. Our team can answer questions such as what is a PHP and what is residential treatment so that you can make a sound decision to help your teen. Contact Destinations for Teens at 877.466.0620 to learn more about our treatment options.