If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, know this: help is available, recovery is possible, and you are not alone. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a complex medical condition that affects millions of individuals and families each year—but with the right support, it can be managed and treated.
For many people, day treatment (also known as Partial Hospitalization Programs or PHP) offers a flexible, effective alternative to inpatient rehab, balancing intensive clinical care with the ability to stay connected to home and community life. But how do you know when it’s time to seek help—and how do you choose the right program?
Let’s walk through it together.
Substance Use Disorder affects people in different ways, but there are common signs that indicate it's time to seek support:
Using drugs or alcohol more frequently or in larger amounts than intended
Feeling unable to cut back or stop, even when you want to
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Withdrawing from loved ones or losing interest in favorite activities
Experiencing cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or physical health issues
Risky behaviors like driving under the influence or using substances alone
Acknowledging that you need help is an act of courage. The next step is understanding your options—and finding a treatment path that fits your needs, lifestyle, and goals.
Day treatment programs provide structured, evidence-based care for individuals with moderate to severe SUD who don’t require 24-hour supervision. These programs typically run 5–7 days per week for several hours each day, offering a combination of:
Group and individual therapy
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT), when appropriate
Psychiatric and medical care
Relapse prevention planning
Skill-building and psychoeducation
Case management and support services
The goal of day treatment is to help individuals stabilize, build a foundation for recovery, and transition to lower levels of care as they grow stronger.
Day treatment can be a powerful option if:
You’ve completed detox or inpatient care and need structured follow-up
You require intensive treatment but want to sleep in your own bed
You have a supportive home environment
You’re ready to actively participate in recovery work
You want to continue working part-time, caregiving, or attending school
However, it may not be the best fit if you're in immediate danger, experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, or have an unstable home environment. In those cases, inpatient or residential care might be the safest starting point.
Not all programs are created equal. When researching treatment centers, look for the following:
Ensure the program is licensed by your state and accredited by reputable organizations like the Joint Commission or CARF. This confirms they meet quality and safety standards.
Look for programs that conduct a comprehensive assessment and create individualized treatment plans based on your unique needs. Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Verify that the program has licensed professionals, including addiction counselors, therapists, nurses, and a medical director. Integrated care makes a big difference.
Effective treatment should include scientifically validated approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health conditions, choose a program equipped to address co-occurring disorders simultaneously.
Addiction affects the entire family system. Look for a program that includes family therapy, education, and communication tools to support healing at home.
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. A quality program will help you transition to outpatient care, support groups, sober living, or other community-based services.
While each program is unique, your typical day may include:
Morning check-ins and goal setting
Group therapy focused on coping skills, relapse prevention, or emotional regulation
Individual counseling to explore deeper issues
Mindfulness practices, creative therapies, or fitness activities
Medication management, if needed
Peer support and community building
This structure helps you stay accountable, build healthy habits, and develop the tools needed to navigate real-life triggers and challenges.
The first step to getting help is reaching out. Whether you call a treatment center directly, talk to your primary care provider, or connect with a trusted friend or family member—taking that first action can change your life.
At Power of Recovery, we believe that every person deserves access to compassionate, high-quality care that meets them where they are. Our day treatment programs are designed to support healing, hope, and long-term recovery.
We’re here to listen. We’re here to guide. And we’re here to help you reclaim your power—one day at a time.
Substance Use Disorder can feel isolating, overwhelming, and hopeless. But recovery is real, and it begins with one decision: to ask for help. Day treatment can provide the clinical care, emotional support, and structure you need to move forward without stepping away from your life entirely.
Seeking help is courageous and should be commended…know you don't have to face it alone. Our team of professionals and support systems can guide you toward a healthier and happier life. Contact us here >>