Setting Treatment Goals in a PHP
What are Treatment Goals in a PHP?
Treatment goals in a PHP outline the path to recovery. They provide direction, purpose, and motivation for your treatment. Goals are set to help effectively address mental health concerns, track and maintain progress throughout recovery, and achieve a healthier life.
Comparing PHP Goals with Other Treatment Modalities
Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) have unique treatment goals that set them apart from other treatment modalities. In this article, we’ll examine how treatment goals in a PHP compare to those in inpatient and outpatient programs.
PHP vs. Inpatient Programs
PHP vs. Outpatient Programs
Outpatient programs are less intensive. They occur less frequently and usually only last about an hour. They suit those needing minimal support. Outpatient goals focus on long-term management, stability, and relapse prevention.
Treatment goals in a PHP are more intensive, with therapy hours often equivalent to a full-time job. This means quicker progress in managing symptoms and coping skills. PHP goals also include long-term strategies but with a shorter timeframe for achieving them.
Unique Aspects of PHP Treatment Goals
Customization of Treatment Goals in PHP
Assessing Participants' Unique Conditions
- Physical health: Any medical conditions or physical limitations that may affect treatment
- Mental health history: Past psychiatric diagnoses, medication use, and any previous therapy experiences
- Social support: The level of support available from family, friends, and community
- Personal history and experiences: Trauma, substance use, and any other relevant life events
Role of the Treatment Team
Participant Involvement in Goal Setting
Encouraging Active Participation
Treatment Goals in a PHP: Core Components of PHP Treatment Goals
Mental Health and Wellness Objectives
Overall Recovery Goals
Setting Realistic and Achievable Targets
Coping Skills
- Attend a support group at least once per week for the duration of the program
- Use positive self-talk in at least one anxious situation per day for three weeks
- Practice deep breathing exercises for five minutes each day for a month
Symptom Management
- Reduce the frequency of panic attacks from 3 times per week to once per week within the next two months
- Increase sleep duration from 5 hours to 7 hours per night by implementing a bedtime routine and practicing relaxation techniques before bed
- Learn and regularly practice a grounding exercise to manage dissociation episodes when triggered
Interpersonal Relationships
- Initiate at least one social interaction per week with a friend or family member during the program
- Set boundaries and communicate needs effectively in a relationship with a significant other by the end of the program
- Attend couples therapy sessions with a partner once per week for two months to improve communication and address conflicts
Overall Well-Being
- Develop a self-care routine and incorporate at least three activities per week for the duration of the program
- Monitor mood daily using a mood tracker app and implement coping strategies when experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety
- Set aside a designated time each day for relaxation and stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, or reading
Measuring Progress
- Clinical Assessments: Tools like questionnaires measure specific symptoms or wellness aspects
- Therapeutic Feedback: Observations and input from the treatment team
- Self-Reports: Individuals’ insights about their feelings and experiences.
Treatment Goals in a PHP: Setting and Adapting Goals Over Time
Adapting to Participant Progress
As clients advance in recovery, the team reassesses goals to keep them relevant and challenging. For instance, if a person has improved in managing depression, the focus may shift to resilience or social relationships.
This adaptation is about responding to the client’s growth. It requires ongoing communication between the client and the treatment team. Individual feedback and experiences are crucial in guiding these adjustments.
Towards the end of the program, goals might include a relapse prevention plan, ongoing support resources, or applying learned skills in daily life. These are long-term objectives that encourage continued growth.
Treatment Goals in a PHP: Addressing Co-occurring Conditions and Complex Needs
Co-occurring conditions, or having multiple diagnoses, are common in individuals seeking mental health treatment. It’s important to address these complex needs as part of a comprehensive approach to treatment.
Integrated Treatment Approaches
Strategies for Complex Cases
Multi-disciplinary Approach
Treatment Goals in a PHP: Empowering Participants through Psychoeducation
Involve Family and Friends
Treatment Goals in a PHP: How Continuum Can Help
What We Offer
Join Us at Continuum
If you’re ready to take control of your mental health and work towards a happier, healthier life, we invite you to join us at Continuum. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.