Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can make daily life feel overwhelming. It can affect how someone thinks, feels and reacts to the world around them. Simple things like running errands, going to work or even spending time with loved ones can bring up painful memories or strong emotions. If you’re facing challenges like these, you’re not alone. About 6% of the U.S. population will have PTSD at some point in their lives. Getting treatment is an important step toward feeling better. Finding the right kind of care isn’t always easy, though. Understanding the unique advantages of different levels of care can help you find treatment that matches your needs.

For some people, Virtual Services may be ideal. Virtual treatment comes in many forms. If you’re looking for a structured, professional mental health treatment program that you can access at home, a Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a great option. This type of program provides structured, professional mental health care while allowing people to stay at home. Virtual PHP can be just as effective as in-person treatment, and it also removes some of the barriers that can make traditional programs difficult.

4 reasons why you may benefit from Virtual PHP for PTSD

• Professional treatment without leaving home — One of the hardest parts of PTSD is feeling unsafe in certain situations. Triggers like loud noises, crowded places or unfamiliar environments can cause distress. This can make it difficult to attend in-person therapy. Virtual PHP is designed to help you focus on healing without leaving the place where you feel most comfortable. Studies show that virtual therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for PTSD, so you can get at-home treatment without compromising on quality care. Services included in vPHP typically include individual psychotherapy sessions with a licensed clinical therapist, psychiatric support, group therapy and more. One of the biggest advantages of vPHP is the ability to access all of these services at home.
• Safe and comfortable support — People with PTSD often feel on edge or on high alert, especially in unfamiliar places. Feeling safe is an important part of healing. In Virtual PHP, you can stay in control of your environment while getting expert care. This may help you open up more in therapy and stay engaged in your treatment. A virtual treatment setting may mean less exposure to anxiety-inducing triggers, a greater ability to focus on therapy sessions and a feeling of security. Safety and comfort in your environment can make it easier to talk about tough emotions, practice coping skills and make progress in treatment.
• A balanced approach — Many people dealing with PTSD have responsibilities to work, school or family. Keeping up with these responsibilities while also seeking mental health treatment may seem like a big challenge. Fortunately, the balanced approach of Virtual PHP is intended to let people continue living their lives while getting the care they need. Virtual PHPs typically have set schedules. For example, you might spend four hours each day in group sessions, then another hour in a one-on-one meeting with your therapist. Having a set schedule can make it easier to plan the rest of the day. Virtual care means you don’t have to worry about long commutes or finding transportation. This means more time for things like practicing self-care skills, managing responsibilities and spending time with your family.
• Continuity of care — Healing from PTSD can be a long-term process. As such, it’s important to have a treatment plan that supports ongoing progress. Virtual PHPs allow people to transition smoothly into lower levels of care when they’re ready. When you’re nearing the end of your vPHP, your providers may help you transition to step-down options like an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for continued care. They can also help you build long-term skills for managing PTSD symptoms to prepare you for challenges as they arise. Instead of stopping treatment suddenly, Virtual PHP typically involves a gradual, guided transition to help ensure continued success. With vPHP, you can move forward at your own pace, getting the right level of support every step of the way.

Get virtual psychotherapy and other treatments at Lightfully

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, help is available. At Lightfully, we offer a Virtual PHP that can provide compassionate, evidence-based care in a way that fits your needs and lifestyle. Our Precision Care Model (PCM) focuses on whole-person-centered care, helping clients feel supported and empowered in their recovery. With PCM, we can use the most effective aspects of treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to target the drivers behind your PTSD symptoms.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to seek virtual PTSD treatment, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.