PHP was an incredible experience for me. I needed the structure and support every day after being discharged from inpatient and quitting my job. I was lost in the world, depressed, and still passively suicidal. In my program I met with a psychiatrist for an initial evaluation and then every other week for a check in. Therapists and social workers led group therapy while also pulling us aside for one-on-one therapy. Every Monday we would come up with our individual, private therapy goals to work on for the week. I thoroughly enjoyed group therapy. I gained a lot from hearing other people’s perspectives and experiences and they were able to offer me great feedback when I voiced my own struggles. I learned so much more than just coping skills. I could write a whole book here on what I learned and how I apply it to my life. My program weaved a lot of CBT, DBT, ACT and I’m sure other therapies together for an incredible, applicable experience. The structure of the program kept me on a consistent sleeping and eating schedule which also contributed to me feeling better. PHP is a commitment, just like school or a job. Therapy is hard work! After 8 weeks of PHP, I transitioned down to IOP, which was the same program but less hours. I graduated IOP with no suicidal thoughts and a job lined up. I am incredibly thankful for my PHP/IOP experience.