Recovering from complex trauma, mental health challenges, and substance use disorder is a process. We developed our comprehensive step-down continuum of care for women to act as a bridge between inpatient or residential treatment and outpatient care, fostering continued healing, growth, and recovery. This treatment unfolds over three distinct phases. The first phase involves treatment at a partial hospitalization level. Click below to learn more about our phases and read on to learn about Phase 1 for women in Austin.

The Phase 1 program is a highly structured form of outpatient treatment that offers intensive complex trauma work, mental health care, and addiction treatment. Phase 1 is designed for individuals who need substantial support, but don’t require around-the-clock supervision as in traditional inpatient programs or residential treatment. It serves as an effective middle ground between true inpatient hospitalization and less structured outpatient services.
In this first phase, individuals participate in a range of therapeutic activities that address their mental health concerns and any co-occurring disorders, returning to recovery-supportive housing communities each evening. This balance allows for significant therapeutic intervention, while enabling individuals to build community and maintain some aspects of their daily life, all of which can aid in the application of learned coping strategies to real-life settings.
This balance is similar to that of an IOP (intensive outpatient program), but the treatment provided in Phase 1 is comprehensive and tailored to the individual’s specific needs — whether that be treating a mental illness or substance use disorder. A multidisciplinary team of therapists and other mental health professionals conduct an array of therapeutic sessions every day. These sessions can encompass various therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), group therapy, and other forms of counseling.
Our first phase can be an appropriate choice for women who:
By providing an intensive level of care in a flexible, real-life setting, Phase 1 can be an essential stop on any individual’s mental and behavioral health recovery journey — one that helps them feel confident to take the next step in continued healing.
Our Austin based Phase 1 program is designed for women who require significant mental health and behavioral health support while living in a structured environment that does not require 24/7 supervision. The program begins with a minimum four-week commitment and typically spans two to three months. Clients participate in 22.5 hours of clinical programming each week, including group therapy and individualized therapeutic services five days per week. The first phase also includes up to five days per week of elective therapeutic experiences such as working at our partner farm, Simple Promise Farms, or participating in complex trauma-informed yoga.
Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of licensed therapists, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and dedicated support staff who foster a clinically grounded environment. Services may include psychiatric testing when appropriate, medication management, and women’s health support. In addition to five days per week of structured clinical programming, women engage in spiritually and somatically integrated offerings such as breathwork, meditation groups, sound baths, trauma-informed yoga, 12-step meetings, and fellowship. Family involvement is supported through a weekly Wednesday evening family support group, with individual parent coaching and family therapy available as clinically appropriate.
Beyond therapy, the program emphasizes purposeful living and sustainable life skills. Experiential and life development programming includes work at Simple Promise Farms and Casa De Miel, case management, life development coaching, nutrition education, exercise, financial literacy classes, and shared household responsibilities. Room and board are provided, including chef-prepared, home-cooked meals, and transportation to all appointments and meetings. Clients also have access to a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber as part of their integrated care experience. Together, these elements create a comprehensive foundation for emotional regulation, relational growth, and long-term stability.
Historically, more men enter treatment than women — perhaps a function of the fact that traditional behavioral health treatment programs have been oriented around the needs and behaviors of men. Women experience a different mix of mental and behavioral health issues than men do. For example, women with substance use disorder are more likely to have been exposed to complex trauma in the past than men. The progression of mental and behavioral health issues is also different — and often more rapid — in women than men. The research is clear: Women have different needs when it comes to healing. Our program was built to provide a safe, supportive community where women can receive the best treatment for their particular challenges. We offer:
Women-only treatment programs are unique and rare in themselves. Compared to similar programs that are available for women, our Phase 1 treatment plan goes beyond managing symptoms to focus on holistic healing and long-term wellness. Here’s a more detailed look at what you can expect from our program:
The duration of Phase 1 varies for each individual, depending on their specific needs. However, on average, it typically spans from several weeks to a few months.
Absolutely! We value the power of support systems and encourage family involvement as a key component of the recovery process.
Upon completion, we provide you with a comprehensive aftercare plan. This could include regular follow-up appointments, enrollment in support groups, or transitioning to our outpatient program to ensure continued support and progress.
Learn more about our continuum of care.
Our entire program in Austin is thoughtfully designed to provide a supportive, empowering environment where women can navigate their unique paths to mental health recovery. We provide the tools, support, and understanding needed to help them reclaim their lives and emerge stronger, healthier, and happier than ever before. If you or someone your love needs help finding their way, contact us. Our team can show you the next steps to a better future.