For millions of people, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) are a vital step in addiction recovery. Often occurring after rehab and medical detox, these programs equip people with support systems, education, and tools that they can bring into their everyday lives to continue their recovery journeys. Of course, there are many decisions families and individuals need to make when choosing a program. Choosing between IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) and PHP, the provider you will use, and whether or not you will go in person or virtually all need to be considered. When it comes to making decisions, it is important to understand key differences and make an informed decision based on your particular situation and needs.
What Does a Traditional PHP Addiction Recovery Program Include?
Traditionally, PHP is centered on spending five to six hours a day, five days a week, at a treatment facility. Depending on the facility you go to, there will be different programming. But generally, it can involve solo or group sessions, education, and a variety of therapeutic activities, including CBT and DBT. The end goal of a PHP program is to help an individual build the support system and individual tools they need to return to their everyday lives. This is contrasted with an IOP system, which usually requires fewer days and fewer hours per day. IOP is ideal for people who need to balance treatment with other responsibilities.
Virtual PHP involves using secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing software to attend PHP sessions remotely instead of in person. So there are inherent differences that could be advantages for some individuals or drawbacks for others.
When is Virtual PHP Right For Addiction Treatment
Virtual PHP still has the same level of programming and support as in-person sessions. During virtual sessions, individuals will be able to get the same valuable education, support, and some of the treatments that they can receive in person. There is greater accessibility, comfort, and privacy for people who choose to do virtual PHP. There is no commuting time, and there is sometimes greater logistical flexibility for people using a virtual system.
Of course, there are many people who prefer in-person sessions and will also view them as more valuable. This is especially true for people who want to avoid potential triggers from being at home. Being on-site for PHP means having a clear support system that is working with you in-person.
Choosing Between Virtual and In-Person PHP
| Virtual PHP | In-Person PHP | |
| Best Suited For | Medically stable individuals with a supportive home and the ability to join virtual meetings daily. | Individuals who benefit from in-person support and monitoring or need to avoid potential triggers at home. |
| Pros | Increased flexibility, no commuting, and more privacy | Hands-on in-person programming with no interruptions |
| Cons | Requires a webcam and a device with strong internet, as well as a quiet, secure place to join those meetings. | A significant time commitment, especially if you need to commute to the treatment facility |
| Similarities | Whether you choose virtual or in-person PHP, you will spend 6-8 hours per day, five days per week, working with a supportive team that uses CBT and DBT therapeutic techniques to help support you and equip you with tools that can help you throughout your recovery. | |
Virtual PHP is ideal for people who are medically stable and have a supportive home where they can effectively join virtual meetings each day. It works best for people who would otherwise not be able to attend in-person meetings due to accessibility or commuting issues.
In-person PHP is traditionally recommended to anyone who can benefit from in-person support, daily monitoring, and especially anyone who is concerned about potential triggers that they would have to deal with at home.
Program Options with Mountain View Retreat
Mountain View Retreat provides both in-person and virtual PHP for both men and women, as well as IOP. We work hard to provide support for as many people as we can and aim to accommodate their specific needs. If you need help choosing the right program for yourself or a family member, please contact our team for more information.