Balancing mental health treatment and work responsibilities can be challenging, especially when seeking intensive care. Many individuals who need structured support wonder if they can continue working while attending a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP).
A PHP provides intensive mental health treatment while allowing individuals to return home each evening. However, the time commitment required for PHP may make it difficult to work full-time. The decision to continue working depends on several factors, including your job flexibility, the severity of your mental health condition, and the type of treatment needed.
At Greater Boston Behavioral Health, we help individuals find the right balance between treatment and daily responsibilities. This guide will explore whether you can work while in PHP, factors to consider, alternative options, and tips for managing both work and treatment.
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is an intensive, structured mental health program designed for individuals who need more than weekly outpatient therapy but do not require 24/7 inpatient hospitalization. PHPs provide:
- 5-6 hours of therapy per day, 5-6 days per week
- Comprehensive mental health treatment with multiple therapy modalities
- Individual therapy with licensed professionals
- Group therapy for peer support and skill-building
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Medication management and psychiatric care
- Anger management therapy and emotional regulation training
Participants return home in the evenings, allowing them to apply learned strategies in real-life situations while receiving daily therapeutic support.
Can You Work While Attending a PHP?
The ability to continue working while attending a PHP depends on several factors, including:
1. PHP Schedule and Time Commitment
- Most PHPs require 5-6 hours per day, 5-6 days per week.
- This intensive schedule makes it difficult to maintain a full-time job.
- Some individuals adjust their work schedules to part-time or remote work while in treatment.
2. Employer Flexibility and Workplace Accommodations
- Some employers offer flexible schedules, remote work, or reduced hours for employees seeking mental health treatment.
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for medical treatment, including mental health care.
- Open communication with your employer may help you explore options like temporary leave or a reduced workload.
3. The Severity of Your Mental Health Condition
- If you are experiencing severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, or emotional distress, working while attending PHP may not be advisable.
- The primary goal of PHP is stabilization and recovery, so focusing entirely on treatment may be necessary.
- Some individuals choose short-term disability benefits to support them financially while undergoing treatment.
4. Alternative Mental Health Treatment Options
If full-time PHP attendance conflicts with work, consider less intensive programs such as:
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – Therapy sessions 3-5 days per week for 3-4 hours per day, providing more flexibility for work.
- Evening or Weekend Therapy Programs – Some mental health centers offer after-hours therapy to accommodate work schedules.
- Traditional Outpatient Therapy – Weekly or biweekly therapy sessions that allow for full-time employment.
Workplace Rights and Mental Health Support
1. Understanding FMLA and Workplace Protections
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to:
- Take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for medical conditions, including mental health disorders.
- Protect their job while focusing on treatment.
- Use FMLA for PHP, inpatient care, or transitions to outpatient therapy.
2. Requesting Reasonable Accommodations Under the ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with mental health conditions.
Examples include:
- Flexible work schedules
- Remote work options
- Temporary part-time hours
- Adjustments to workload or deadlines
If you need workplace accommodations, speak with your HR department or a mental health professional about your rights.
Balancing Work and PHP: Strategies for Success
If you plan to work while attending a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), here are some strategies to help manage both effectively:
1. Communicate With Your Employer
- Discuss options like adjusted schedules, remote work, or temporary leave.
- If needed, provide documentation from your healthcare provider to support your request for accommodations.
2. Adjust Your Work Schedule
- Consider part-time hours instead of full-time work.
- Some individuals work evening or weekend shifts to accommodate PHP schedules.
3. Prioritize Self-Care and Rest
- PHP can be mentally and emotionally demanding, so it’s important to rest and recharge.
- Make time for healthy meals, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
4. Explore Financial Assistance Options
- If taking a break from work is necessary, check if you qualify for short-term disability benefits or employee assistance programs (EAPs).
5. Transition to a Less Intensive Treatment Program When Ready
- After completing PHP, many individuals step down to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or weekly outpatient therapy while returning to full-time work.
PHP vs. IOP: Which Program is Right for You?
If working while attending PHP is too difficult, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) may be a better alternative.
| Treatment Type | Time Commitment | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) | 5-6 hours per day, 5-6 days per week | Individuals needing intensive therapy and structured support. |
| Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) | 3-4 hours per day, 3-5 days per week | Those transitioning from PHP or needing moderate support while balancing daily responsibilities. |
| Outpatient Therapy | Weekly or biweekly sessions | Individuals managing mental health with less intensive treatment. |
If you are unsure which program fits your work-life balance and treatment needs, our team at Greater Boston Behavioral Health can help you make the best choice.
Why Choose Greater Boston Behavioral Health for PHP?
At Greater Boston Behavioral Health, we offer customized PHP treatment plans that help individuals achieve mental health stabilization while considering their work and daily life responsibilities.
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your schedule.
- Licensed therapists and psychiatrists specializing in mental health recovery.
- Integration of CBT, DBT, and anger management therapy.
- Supportive transition to IOP or outpatient therapy for long-term success.
- Guidance on workplace accommodations, FMLA, and short-term disability options.
Conclusion
Your mental health should always be a priority. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or emotional distress, a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) can provide the support you need to regain stability and well-being.
If you are concerned about balancing PHP with work, our team can help you explore alternative treatment options that fit your schedule. Call Greater Boston Behavioral Health today at 888.278.0716 to learn more about our PHP, IOP, and other mental health programs. Your journey to recovery starts now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I work full-time while attending a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?
Most PHPs require 5-6 hours per day, 5-6 days per week, making full-time work difficult. However, some individuals can adjust their work schedule, take medical leave, or explore part-time options while in treatment.
Can I use FMLA to take time off for PHP treatment?
Yes. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for medical conditions, including mental health treatment. FMLA protects your job while you focus on recovery.
Are there workplace accommodations for mental health treatment?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers may provide reasonable accommodations such as:
- Flexible work schedules
- Remote work options
- Temporary part-time hours
- Adjusted workload or deadlines
If you need accommodations, you can discuss options with your HR department or mental health provider.
What are alternative treatment options if I need to keep working?
If a PHP schedule conflicts with work, consider:
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – 3-5 days per week, 3-4 hours per session, offering more flexibility.
- Evening or Weekend Therapy Programs – Allows for treatment outside standard work hours.
- Outpatient Therapy – Weekly or biweekly therapy sessions that fit around work schedules.
What should I do if I can’t afford to stop working but need PHP treatment?
- Check if you qualify for short-term disability benefits or employee assistance programs (EAPs).
- Speak with your employer about temporary leave or reduced hours.
- Explore insurance coverage for mental health treatment options.
How do I balance self-care with work and PHP?
- Prioritize rest and stress management.
- Adjust your work schedule to reduce strain.
- Use coping techniques from therapy to handle workplace stress.
How long does a PHP last?
Most PHPs last between 2-6 weeks, depending on the individual’s mental health condition and progress in treatment.
Can I transition to a lower level of care after PHP while working?
Yes. Many individuals step down to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or weekly outpatient therapy to maintain progress while returning to work.
