Virtual PHP and Virtual IOP are treatment formats that make intensive mental health care more accessible for our clients. The acronyms stand for Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). At Lightfully, we offer both of these treatment options via telehealth. The main difference is that PHP includes five full days of treatment per week. vIOP is more flexible to include several three- to six-hour treatment sessions per week, depending on your treatment plan and your schedule. 

If you’re experiencing a mental health emergency, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

This blog post compares Virtual PHP with Virtual IOP and explains the most important things you should know.

What kind of experience can I expect in Virtual PHP and Virtual IOP?

You’ll log in for treatment each day using our telehealth platform. Virtual mental health treatments offer therapeutic benefits that are equivalent to in-person treatment. Our licensed clinicians are great at making virtual treatments interactive and engaging. We encourage our clients to keep their cameras on to create a more immersive experience. You’ll get breaks between treatments each day so you can eat, get some movement and take care of yourself. 

Virtual PHP is a good option for people who want uninterrupted time to focus on their recovery and learn about mental health topics. Virtual IOP balances time in treatment with a person’s daily routines at home, at work and in the community. It offers more opportunities to practice the skills they’re working on in real-life situations. Many people start with several weeks in vPHP and then transition to vIOP as they start to improve.

What are the differences between Virtual PHP and Virtual IOP?

In Virtual PHP, clients receive at least 20 hours of clinical services each week. Treatment days are shorter in Virtual IOP, and most people start with five days per week and then taper down as needed. The treatments you receive will depend on the plan created by your treatment team. Another difference between Virtual PHP and Virtual IOP is that Virtual PHP includes psychiatry sessions for medication management. Clients who need medication management and a higher level of treatment typically spend several weeks or months in vPHP. Then, they step down to vIOP as they start to feel better.

Virtual PHP is typically the best choice for people who aren’t able to function as usual. For instance, if you have difficulty going to work or performing activities of daily living like showering, you might start with vPHP. Virtual IOP may be the best option for people who need more comprehensive treatment than outpatient therapy but aren’t having trouble functioning. vIOP is also a good step for people who are transitioning out of PHP or those who have completed a PHP before, depending on their needs.

Here’s a summary of what differentiates Virtual PHP from Virtual IOP:

• vPHP includes comprehensive medication management services.
• vPHP can help clients initiate new medication regimens.
• vPHP is meant for those unable to maintain regular work and daily functions.
• vPHP is best for those who need intensive support five days per week.

How can Virtual PHP help me?

Virtual PHP allows you to receive hours of treatment each day from your home. You’ll receive several different treatments at once and connect with other people who have similar conditions. Virtual PHP is covered by most insurance plans, so these programs are affordable and accessible. Coverage may still vary based on individual policy and state.

At Lightfully, we take a comprehensive approach that goes beyond skill-building. We work with our clients to get a deep understanding of their thought patterns and emotional triggers. We help you envision what long-term mental wellness will look like for you. Then, we support you in making life changes and developing habits to bring your vision to life. During family therapy sessions, your loved ones will learn about their roles in your support system. 

How can I make the most of my Virtual PHP and Virtual IOP sessions?

You’ll need high-speed internet and a device with a working camera and microphone. It’s a good idea to set up a quiet space in your home where you can be comfortable and stay alert and focused during sessions. Try to use a space that’s well lit and minimize background noise and distractions. 

You can attend virtual treatments at Lightfully from anywhere in California or Washington state. Note that you can’t log in from out of state, because to receive treatment legally, clients must be in the state where the provider is licensed to practice. You also can’t attend treatment sessions while driving for safety and liability reasons.

Start with an assessment to explore your Virtual PHP and Virtual IOP treatment options at Lightfully

Virtual PHP offers a few benefits that make it more accessible and convenient than in-person treatment. This might be the right option for you if you have a condition that makes it difficult to leave home or if you don’t live near a treatment center. Virtual PHP is available to people in any living situation. Many clients like it because they have their pets and loved ones nearby during sessions.

Virtual PHP is usually part of a larger mental health treatment journey. Treatment in all programs at Lightfully is based on our Precision Care Model (PCM), which we use to create a personalized treatment plan for each client. Rather than taking a diagnosis or symptom-driven approach, we help clients build up the supports and processes they’ll need for long-term mental wellness. Your plan may include Virtual PHP, Virtual IOP and other levels of care. 

Are you considering higher levels of mental health treatment and looking for virtual options? Let’s talk about it. Contact us or reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team today.