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PHP

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Intensive Mental Health Support in North Chesterfield, Virginia—Without an Overnight Stay

For adults who need more support than weekly therapy can provide, but are stable enough to return home each evening.

Schedule5 days a week, about 5 hours a day
Care settingOutpatient care, home each evening

Transit Accessible · Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) · Short-Term Disability Paperwork Completion Available · Accommodation Letters Provided

Who Is PHP For?

PHP may be a good fit for adults whose mental health symptoms are interfering with everyday life and who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy provides.

PHP is our highest level of outpatient care. It provides a higher level of support than traditional outpatient therapy while allowing you to return home each evening.

It may be appropriate if you:

  • Need more structure and support than weekly therapy can offer
  • Are struggling to manage day-to-day responsibilities because of your symptoms
  • Have tried outpatient treatment but need additional support
  • Are stepping down from a psychiatric hospitalization or higher level of care
  • Are afraid of returning to the hospital and want extra support to stay on track
  • Need continued support while adjusting to treatment or medication
  • Are stable enough to live at home while receiving intensive treatment during the day

How The Program Works

5 days a week. Approximately 5 hours a day. Home every evening.

A typical day combines several forms of care:

Group Therapy

We have small group sessions for more personal and individualized care, providing a structured space to work through challenges, connect with others, and practice new skills.

Content block 1

Skills-Based Groups

You'll learn practical strategies such as coping skills and emotion regulation that you can use outside of treatment.

Content block 2

Psychiatric Care & Medication Management

Both psychiatric care and medication management are incorporated into your treatment. You’ll meet with a psychiatrist twice weekly to discuss your goals and manage your medication (if applicable).

Content block 3

Consistent Individual Clinical Support

Your care team works together around your needs rather than leaving you to coordinate every part of your care on your own.

Content block 4

More support. More structure. Still home at night.

What to Expect on Your First Day

For someone already anxious about starting, even a passing mention of forms can add weight to the moment. The good news is, you don't have to have it all figured out before you arrive.

Here’s what to expect!

Arrive & Check In

Complete any remaining paperwork and meet a team member who will orient you to the space and your schedule.

Get Oriented

You'll learn about the daily schedule, group expectations, confidentiality, breaks, phone policies, and who to go to with questions.

Join Your First Group

You'll attend your first group and begin getting familiar with the program. Being new is okay. You’ll be able to connect with other people who understand what their first day was like too.Bring: Comfortable clothing and lunch. Snacks and drinks are provided.

You Don’t Have to Figure Everything Out in Front of Everyone

The idea of group therapy is one of the most intimidating parts of starting PHP.

Being vulnerable around other people can feel uncomfortable—especially when you've had experiences that made it difficult to trust others.

Our groups are structured to create a respectful, supportive environment where you can participate in treatment without being expected to have everything figured out.

You'll learn the expectations around confidentiality and participation, and your clinical team will guide the process.

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Meet Your Care Team

You are not a burden for needing more support. You are not just another number. You are a human, deserving of care from licensed, clinically trained and compassionate professionals.

PHP brings together a group of licensed mental health professionals and clinical providers who work collaboratively around your treatment needs. Depending on your care, this may include therapy, individual care, psychiatric care, medication management, nursing, and skills-based treatment.

We believe you deserve to be seen, heard, and treated with respect throughout the process.

Your care team is here to understand where you are, help you identify what you need, and work with you toward meaningful progress.

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Your Care Doesn't End When PHP Does

PHP is one part of a continuum of care.

Discharge planning begins early, so you aren't left wondering what happens when the program ends. As your needs change, your care team can help you transition to the next appropriate level of support.

That may include:

  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
  • Individual therapy
  • Other outpatient services

We ensure nobody graduates into a void.

The goal is to help you move from one appropriate level of care to the next—with a plan for what comes after PHP.

A woman smiling outdoors in warm sunlight

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does PHP typically last?

A typical PHP stay is approximately 3–4 weeks, although treatment length is individualized based on your needs and progress.

Do you provide FMLA paperwork? Accommodation letters?

Yes, our team can complete FMLA documentation and provide letters excusing clients from work or school when clinically appropriate.

What is the difference between PHP and IOP?

PHP provides a higher level of outpatient support.

PHP: Approximately 5 hours per day, 5 days per week.

IOP: Approximately 3 hours per day, 3 days per week.

The appropriate level depends on your symptoms, needs, and treatment goals.

Is PHP the same as inpatient hospitalization?

No. PHP is an outpatient program. You receive structured treatment during the day and return home each evening. PHP can be used as a step up from traditional outpatient treatment or as a step down following a higher level of care.

Who does PHP serve?

Virginia Family Wellness's PHP is designed for adults.

Outpatient services are also available for children, teens, and adults.

Will I receive medication management?

Psychiatric care and medication management are a part of PHP. Your treatment team will consider your individual needs and treatment goals when determining the right approach.

Does Virginia Family Wellness accept insurance?

It’s best to contact us directly with questions about insurance coverage, payment, or whether PHP may be an appropriate level of care for you.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

Under the federal No Surprises Act, you may have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected healthcare charges when applicable. Contact Virginia Family Wellness for information about your rights and expected costs.

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Find the Right Level of Care

You don't have to know whether PHP, IOP, or outpatient therapy is right for you.

Every client begins with a confidential intake assessment with a licensed clinician. We'll learn about what you're experiencing, your history, and your goals, then recommend the level of care that best fits your needs.

Schedule Assessment

Crisis & Emergency Disclaimer

Virginia Family Wellness is not a crisis service. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. If you are in immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency department.