Key Points:

  • A partial hospitalization program for eating disorders offers intensive day treatment while allowing individuals to return home at night.
  • These programs include a structured schedule of therapies, medical monitoring, meal support, and nutritional counseling.
  • PHPs bridge the gap between inpatient and outpatient care, ideal for individuals who need more than traditional therapy but less than full hospitalization.

If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, you might already know how challenging it can be to find the right level of care. Some need more than weekly therapy sessions but don’t quite need round-the-clock inpatient hospitalization. This is where a partial hospitalization program for eating disorders becomes a crucial option.

These programs offer a powerful balance—providing structured, evidence-based treatment during the day while still allowing individuals to return home in the evening. This structure supports recovery while maintaining some aspects of daily life and autonomy.

partial hospitalization program for eating disorders

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program for Eating Disorders?

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) for eating disorders is an intensive treatment approach designed for individuals who require more support than outpatient care can provide, but who do not need or no longer require 24/7 inpatient supervision.

Unlike traditional hospitalization, PHPs allow participants to live at home or in a supportive housing environment and attend treatment sessions for several hours a day, typically five to six days a week. These programs cater to individuals dealing with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED).

Here's what typically defines a PHP for eating disorders:

  • Daytime treatment (usually 6–8 hours daily, Monday through Friday)
  • Structured therapeutic programming including individual and group therapy
  • Supervised meals and snacks to normalize eating patterns
  • Medical monitoring including regular vital sign checks and lab work
  • Nutritional counseling with dietitians specialized in eating disorders
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management if needed

The core goal is to stabilize eating habits, improve psychological health, and equip individuals with tools for long-term recovery.

Who Is a Good Fit for a PHP?

Deciding whether PHP is the right level of care depends on a variety of clinical and personal factors. It's often recommended after inpatient treatment or when outpatient therapy isn't enough to ensure safety and progress.

A PHP for eating disorders may be appropriate if someone:

  • Has medical or psychological stability but still needs close monitoring
  • Struggles with meal compliance or needs supervised meals
  • Is transitioning from inpatient care and needs step-down support
  • Requires multiple therapeutic interventions throughout the day
  • Has difficulty functioning in daily life due to eating disorder symptoms

Eligibility is typically assessed through a comprehensive intake evaluation by a multidisciplinary team. They’ll consider medical history, psychological status, eating behaviors, BMI, and other key factors.

What to Expect During a PHP for Eating Disorders

Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and set realistic expectations. While each center may structure their program slightly differently, most follow a similar model of care:

A typical day in a PHP may include:

  • Meal and snack support: Supervised eating to challenge disordered behaviors and normalize food relationships.
  • Individual therapy: Sessions with a licensed therapist to explore trauma, cognitive distortions, body image, and coping strategies.
  • Group therapy: Peer discussions guided by clinicians that foster community, accountability, and shared learning.
  • Family therapy or support: Sessions that help loved ones understand the disorder and improve communication and boundaries.
  • Nutrition education: Led by registered dietitians, covering intuitive eating, food myths, and balanced meal planning.
  • Medical and psychiatric care: Ongoing health monitoring and medication management to support both physical and mental stability.
  • Experiential therapies: Depending on the program, this could include art therapy, yoga, mindfulness, or movement therapy.

Most programs operate five to six days a week, offering 30–40 hours of care. Consistency is key, and progress is closely monitored.

Benefits of a Partial Hospitalization Program for Eating Disorders

One of the reasons PHPs are effective is that they strike a unique balance: offering intensive care without requiring full residential commitment. This format supports both recovery and reintegration into normal life.

Some specific benefits include:

  • Intensive support without full hospitalization: Ideal for those who don’t need inpatient care but aren’t ready for outpatient.
  • Structure that builds routine: PHPs offer a stable, predictable daily schedule that helps individuals re-establish healthy habits.
  • Continued connection with home life: Participants can return home after treatment each day, making it easier to practice skills in real-life settings.
  • Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care: Therapy, nutrition, and medical support are coordinated and consistent.
  • Transitional support: For those stepping down from residential care, PHPs offer a gradual path toward outpatient recovery.

PHPs also help reduce the risk of relapse during critical periods of early recovery. The program's intensity fosters meaningful change while allowing individuals to apply coping strategies in their daily environments.

Common Misconceptions About PHPs for Eating Disorders

It’s normal to have concerns or misunderstandings about partial hospitalization. Clarifying these misconceptions can help people feel more confident in choosing the right care.

Let’s debunk a few:

  • "It’s not serious care." In reality, PHPs provide intensive, structured care just short of hospitalization. It’s serious, therapeutic work.
  • "You have to be really sick to qualify." PHP is ideal for people with moderate to severe symptoms who can safely live outside a hospital.
  • "It’s too much of a time commitment." Recovery is time-consuming, but investing a few weeks in a PHP can prevent years of chronic relapse.
  • "It’s only for one type of eating disorder." PHPs are often tailored for various conditions including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and OSFED.

Understanding what PHP truly offers makes it easier to embrace the process with clarity and hope.

How Long Does a PHP Typically Last?

Length of stay can vary based on individual needs and progress. Some individuals may attend for a few weeks, while others stay several months. Treatment teams regularly assess progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Duration is influenced by:

  • Symptom severity and medical stability
  • Progress in therapy and nutritional goals
  • Co-occurring conditions (like anxiety or depression)
  • Readiness to transition to outpatient care

Ultimately, the goal isn’t to rush through the program but to provide a solid foundation for ongoing recovery.

How to Prepare for a PHP for Eating Disorders

Beginning a PHP can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s a new level of care. Preparation can make the transition smoother.

Tips for preparing:

  • Communicate openly: Share any concerns or logistical needs with your treatment team before starting.
  • Adjust your schedule: Inform work, school, or family about your new routine so you can focus on recovery.
  • Pack practically: Bring comfortable clothes, journals, water bottles, and any required medications.
  • Stay open-minded: Every journey is unique. Progress might not be linear, but showing up is a win in itself.

Having the right expectations and mindset helps set the stage for a successful experience.

Take the Next Step with a Trusted PHP Provider

If you or a loved one is ready to explore structured support for an eating disorder, New Horizons Recovery Centers offers a compassionate and evidence-based partial hospitalization program in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Our PHP services are designed to help individuals regain control over their health and begin building a balanced, nourishing life.

We understand how overwhelming eating disorders can feel—not just for the person struggling but for families as well. At New Horizons Recovery Centers, our dedicated team of therapists, dietitians, and medical professionals walks with you every step of the way.

Take the first step toward healing. Reach out today to learn more about how our PHP can meet you where you are—and help you get where you want to be.