Saint Alexius Medical Center/PHP – Dual Diagnosis
Located in Bismarck, North Dakota, the Saint Alexius Medical Center offers a specialized Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) designed for individuals navigating the complexities of addiction alongside mental health challenges. This program, often referred to as “Dual Diagnosis” treatment, is structured to provide intensive, integrated care without requiring 24-hour inpatient stay. By focusing on co-occurring disorders, the center addresses both substance use and underlying mental health issues simultaneously, which is critical for achieving lasting recovery.
Program Philosophy and Treatment Approach
The core of the Saint Alexius Dual Diagnosis PHP is integrated treatment. This contemporary approach recognizes that mental health conditions and substance use disorders often exacerbate one another, creating a challenging cycle for the individual. The clinical team works to treat the whole person, ensuring that therapeutic interventions are cohesive and targeted toward both sets of symptoms. This comprehensive strategy dramatically improves treatment outcomes compared to treating the disorders sequentially or in isolation.
Participants in the Partial Hospitalization Program typically attend structured therapy sessions several hours a day, multiple days per week, providing a high level of support and accountability. This schedule allows individuals to return home or to a supportive living environment each evening, bridging the gap between intensive inpatient care and traditional outpatient services.
Services Offered
Treatment at the center is multidisciplinary, incorporating a range of evidence-based therapies. Key components include:
- Individual Therapy and Counseling
- Group Therapy focused on relapse prevention and coping skills
- Psychiatric Care and Medication Management
- Educational sessions on Dual Diagnosis, recovery, and wellness
- Family involvement and support services
The program strives to equip patients with the tools necessary to manage their conditions effectively, fostering independence and sustainable sobriety upon completion of the PHP level of care. Saint Alexius Medical Center is committed to delivering professional, personalized care right in the heart of Bismarck, North Dakota.
For those seeking information, the facility is located at 315 North 11th Street, Bismarck, ND 58501, and can be reached by phone for admissions and questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Dual Diagnosis” mean in this context?
Dual Diagnosis refers to a person who is diagnosed with both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder simultaneously. This program specializes in treating both conditions in an integrated manner for better results.
How is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) different from inpatient treatment?
A PHP provides similar intensive therapeutic services as inpatient care, but participants return home at night. It is a step down from 24-hour residential care, offering structure and support while allowing patients to maintain external responsibilities and practice coping skills in real-world settings.
How long does the Partial Hospitalization Program typically last?
The duration of the PHP is personalized based on individual clinical needs and progress, but it generally lasts several weeks. The treatment team continually assesses the patient to determine the appropriate transition to less intensive levels of care.




