When it comes to addiction treatment, one of the first decisions families must face is what level of care their loved one needs. Two of the most common options are Residential Treatment and PHP, or Partial Hospitalization Program. Understanding the difference can help families make informed decisions based on their needs, lifestyle, and cultural values.
What Is Residential Treatment?
Residential treatment, also known as inpatient rehab, involves the individual living full-time at a treatment facility. These programs are highly structured and medically supervised 24/7. Residential treatment is often recommended for individuals who:
- Are in acute crisis or experiencing withdrawal
- Have severe co-occurring mental health disorders
- Require a high level of supervision to stabilize safely
Think of residential programs as the “hospital stay” of addiction treatment. It’s an all-inclusive approach where the person is completely removed from their daily environment to focus on recovery.
What Is PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)?
PHP is a form of intensive outpatient care. Clients attend structured therapy sessions during the day, often 5 days a week for several hours a day, but return home or to a sober living environment at night.
At Alter-Nativa, PHP includes:
- Individual and group therapy in Spanish
- Family integration sessions
- Holistic wellness services (yoga, mindfulness, nutrition)
- Optional FARR-certified sober housing with daily structure
PHP is ideal for individuals who:
- Have completed detox or a residential program and need continued support
- Need structure but can maintain safety without 24/7 supervision
- Want to stay connected to family, work, or community while receiving treatment
Why PHP Works for Latino Families
For many Latino families, the idea of sending a loved one away for treatment can feel overwhelming or even culturally misaligned. Here’s why PHP is often a better fit:
- Family Ties Are Deep
In Latino culture, family is central. PHP allows clients to remain in close contact with family while still receiving intensive care. It also includes the family in the treatment process, recognizing that addiction is a family illness. - Financial Flexibility
Residential programs can be costly and insurance coverage may vary. PHP, especially with in-network insurance and optional sober living, is often more financially accessible. - Cultural Alignment
At Alter-Nativa, everything is done in Spanish—not just translated, but culturally rooted. From therapy to group discussions to the way staff engage with clients, our approach feels familiar, safe, and respectful. - Structure Without Isolation
Some people feel isolated in inpatient care. PHP offers a structured, immersive recovery experience without removing individuals entirely from their lives. Clients can practice new skills in real-world environments while still receiving support.
What Makes Alter-Nativa Different
- We are one of the few centers in the U.S. that offer PHP/IOP exclusively in Spanish
- We provide FARR-certified sober housing for those who need a safe place to live
- Our approach is trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and family-centered
- Our team is fully bilingual, bicultural, and trained in both mental health and substance use disorders
Is PHP Right for Your Loved One?
Choosing a treatment program can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to listen, guide, and help you find the best path forward—whether for yourself or someone you care about.
Call us for a free consultation: 786-536-7525
Visit: www.alter-nativa.com
