Frequently Asked Questions

Outpatient mental health treatment is structured care that allows you to attend therapy sessions, group counseling, and psychiatric appointments during the day while returning home in the evening. Unlike inpatient or residential programs, outpatient treatment lets you maintain your daily life — work, school, family — while receiving evidence-based care. Refresh Recovery offers both Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs in San Diego.

A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) typically involves 5-6 hours of structured treatment per day, 5 days a week. An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) meets 3-4 hours per day, 3-5 days a week. PHP is best for people who need a higher level of care but don’t require 24-hour supervision, while IOP works well for those stepping down from PHP or who need flexibility around work or school. Learn more about our PHP program and IOP program.

Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) shows that roughly half of people with a mental illness will also experience a substance use disorder. Treating both conditions simultaneously — rather than one at a time — leads to better long-term outcomes. Refresh Recovery specializes in dual diagnosis care.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is one of the most researched and effective treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. At Refresh Recovery, CBT is a core part of our treatment approach. Learn more on our CBT page.

Treatment duration varies based on individual needs. Most PHP programs run 4-6 weeks, while IOP programs typically last 8-12 weeks. Some people transition from PHP to IOP as they progress. Your treatment team will work with you to determine the right timeline based on your goals, diagnosis, and progress.

Sadness is a normal human emotion that comes and goes. Clinical depression, however, persists for at least two weeks and interferes with your ability to work, sleep, eat, or enjoy life. Key signs include persistent hopelessness, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm. If you recognize these signs, read our guide on 10 signs you may need help.

The five most common warning signs include persistent sadness or feeling down, difficulty concentrating, excessive fears or worries, extreme mood changes, and withdrawal from friends and activities. Sleep problems and chronic fatigue are also major indicators. Our full guide covers each sign in detail: What are the 5 signs of mental illness?

The 3-3-3 rule is a simple grounding technique: name 3 things you can see, 3 sounds you can hear, and move 3 parts of your body. This activates your senses and pulls your mind out of the anxiety spiral and back into the present moment. It can be done anywhere in under 30 seconds. Read our full guide: The 3-3-3 Rule for Anxiety.

Yes — anxiety and depression frequently co-occur. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that nearly half of people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Treatment that addresses both conditions together tends to be more effective than treating them separately.

The 4 Cs are Compulsion (the overwhelming urge to use), loss of Control (inability to limit use), Consequences (continuing despite negative outcomes), and Craving (intense desire for the substance). These four characteristics help distinguish clinical addiction from casual use. Read more: What are the 4 Cs of addiction?

Within the first week, sleep quality begins to improve and hydration levels normalize. By two weeks, liver function starts recovering and mental clarity increases. After three weeks, blood pressure typically drops toward normal ranges. By one month, skin appearance improves, weight loss begins, and immune function strengthens. Read our full timeline: What happens when you stop drinking?

Yes. While not everyone who uses cannabis develops a dependency, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that approximately 9% of users develop a marijuana use disorder. Tolerance builds over time, and withdrawal symptoms — irritability, sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, and cravings — are real. Read our full guide: Can you get addicted to marijuana?

Relapse does not mean failure — it means your treatment plan needs adjustment. Steps include seeking professional help to reassess your approach, joining a support group for accountability, making healthy lifestyle changes, and staying connected to your recovery community. Read more: What can I do if I keep relapsing?

Recovery is not a single event but an ongoing process that includes acknowledging the problem, getting professional help, learning coping strategies, rebuilding relationships, and maintaining long-term wellness. The 7 stages of mental health recovery include moratorium, awareness, preparation, rebuilding, growth, and full recovery. Read our guide: The 7 Stages of Recovery.

Refresh Recovery is located in San Diego, California. We serve clients throughout San Diego County, including La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Mission Valley, Hillcrest, North Park, and surrounding communities. Our outpatient programs allow you to receive treatment while living at home or in a sober living environment. Visit our San Diego location page for more details.

Yes — Refresh Recovery accepts most major insurance plans. Our admissions team can verify your benefits and explain your coverage before you start treatment. Contact us for a free insurance verification.

We offer four core programs: Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.

Getting started is simple: call us or fill out our online contact form. Our admissions team will conduct a brief assessment, verify your insurance, and schedule your first appointment — often within 24-48 hours. There is no waitlist for most of our programs.