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Virtual PHP/IDP Eating Disorder Treatment

Clinically reviewed by Jillian Lampert, PhD, MPH, RD, LD, FAEDLast reviewed August 27, 2026

Structured support for where you are

The Emily Program offers virtual partial hospitalization/intensive day programming (PHP/IDP) for treating eating disorders in both adults and adolescents. This high-intensity therapeutic intervention is delivered by our multidisciplinary care teams of therapists, dietitians, and medical and psychiatry providers who guide clients through comprehensive evidence-based eating disorder treatment.

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Virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment includes:

  • Skills-based group therapy
  • Therapeutic meals
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Food skills groups
  • Individual therapy sessions
  • Individual nutrition sessions
  • Yoga/mindfulness therapy
  • Family therapy (for adolescents)
  • Psychiatry and medical services

The Emily Program’s Virtual PHP/IDP is available for children, teens, and adults in Minnesota, Ohio, and Washington.

Locations providing Virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment

What to expect

Prior to the start of programming, clients will have an assessment and participate in an orientation. To prepare for the start of our virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment programming, clients and parents will receive materials detailing what to expect during group and individual sessions, how to optimize the group experience, how to prepare for meals, and all group curriculum and materials. Clients will have medical assessments and follow-up appointments in person at The Emily Program, via virtual treatment, or with a local primary care provider, as needed.

Virtual PHP/IDP meets a minimum of 30 hours per week (Monday–Friday), including two therapeutic meals plus snacks each day. Hours vary depending on the programming location. Weekend programming is also available virtually to extend care to seven days a week. Group sessions contain six or fewer clients, along with therapy and/or nutrition staff. Family sessions take place virtually.

How does virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment work?

Virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment at The Emily Program uses secure online technology to provide clients with intensive, structured eating disorder treatment in the comfort of their homes. Upon admission, you will receive detailed instructions on accessing the virtual platform using a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone. The larger the screen, the better you’ll be able to see everyone in group sessions.

The program involves a combination of individual, group, and family therapy sessions. Each client participates in therapeutic meals, joining others virtually to experience a supportive dining environment. Virtual programming is designed to be interactive and engaging, mirroring the in-person treatment experience as closely as possible.

To accommodate clients with technological challenges, The Emily Program provides internet and device access at its treatment centers, if needed. This approach ensures that all clients can participate fully in their PHP/IDP virtual treatment, receiving the same high level of care and support as traditional, in-person programs.

Is your virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment private?

Maintaining our clients’ privacy is a top priority in our virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment. The Emily Program conducts all virtual partial hospitalization and intensive day program sessions within a secure online environment, making certain of your confidentiality. Support persons involved are instructed to safeguard private information.

We recognize the importance of trust in the treatment process and are dedicated to providing a confidential space for all clients. Our PHP/IDP virtual treatment adheres to strict privacy protocols, fostering a secure and supportive setting for recovery.

How do therapeutic meals work during virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment?

Therapeutic meals are an important part of our virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment. Clients join their peers virtually at mealtime, creating a supportive environment similar to in-person therapeutic meals. 

Before each meal, clients prepare their food so they are ready to sit down with the group. Smaller group sizes during meals allow for more personalized support from staff and peers, enhancing the therapeutic experience. 

Therapeutic meals in our virtual partial hospitalization/intensive day program are designed to help you develop healthy eating habits and improve your relationship with food in a supportive and interactive online setting.

What is a typical day like in virtual PHP/IDP eating disorder treatment?

The Emily Program’s virtual PHP/IDP program provides structured daily schedules for both adults and adolescents. For all ages, a typical day in PHP/IDP includes activities including therapeutic meals and snacks, self-monitoring, skills sessions, nutrition education, mindfulness exercises, yoga, and psychoeducation.

These schedules ensure that clients are engaged in consistent, comprehensive care essential for effective eating disorder treatment. The structure and routine of our virtual partial hospitalization/intensive day program can help you build stability and make progress in your recovery, maintaining the rigor and support of traditional in-person programs.

Learn more about our virtual PHP/IDP services in this information sheet: