Traditional Outpatient
1–5 hours/week- Live at Home?
- Yes
- Ideal For
- Mild symptoms or step-down care
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction or mental health, we can help. Request a call.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction or mental health, we can help. Request a call.
Licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), to provide Day Treatment services under 105 CMR 164.231.
Lion Heart Behavioral Health provides a structured Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)—known as Day Treatment in Massachusetts—for adults in Bristol County, MA who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy but do not require overnight care. Located in Raynham, we serve individuals from Taunton, Brockton, Fall River, New Bedford, and surrounding communities. Our program delivers comprehensive clinical care during the day while allowing clients to return home in the evenings, offering a steady balance of structure, accountability, and independence.
Our full-day treatment program offers a higher level of care for individuals who require more intensive support than traditional outpatient therapy but do not need 24-hour supervision. Day treatment is designed to provide structured treatment while allowing clients to return home each evening, offering a balance between intensive care and independence.
In our partial hospitalization program, clients participate in daily therapeutic activities, including individual counseling, group therapy, skill-building sessions, and educational workshops, all aimed at addressing the underlying causes of addiction and mental health challenges. The program is ideal for those who have made progress in recovery but need continued support to stabilize their condition and prevent relapse.
At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, our day treatment program is tailored to meet the specific needs of each client, providing a comprehensive, therapeutic environment that fosters healing, growth, and long-term recovery.
At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, our day treatment program offers an intensive level of care designed for individuals who need structured support but do not require 24-hour supervision. In our day treatment program, you can expect a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Our program includes daily therapy sessions, both individual and group, to address the emotional, psychological, and behavioral aspects of addiction and mental health concerns. You’ll engage in evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), designed to help you build coping skills, manage triggers, and develop strategies for long-term recovery.
In addition to therapy, you’ll participate in activities and educational workshops that focus on life skills, relapse prevention, and emotional wellness. Our compassionate team of clinicians and support staff will work closely with you, offering guidance and encouragement at every step of the process.
Our day treatment program is designed to provide the right balance of support and independence, allowing you to live at home or in a sober living environment while benefiting from a structured treatment schedule. If you’re ready for a higher level of care and are looking for a program that offers both support and flexibility, Lion Heart’s day treatment program may be the right choice for you.
Our Partial Hospitalization Program is structured to provide consistency, accountability, and meaningful therapeutic work each day. While every treatment plan is individualized, most clients attend programming five days per week for several hours each day.
A typical day may include:
Morning check-in and goal setting to establish focus and identify current challenges
Skills-based group therapy, often using CBT or DBT to strengthen emotional regulation and coping strategies
Process groups that allow clients to explore experiences, triggers, and patterns in a supportive environment
Individual therapy sessions to address personal treatment goals
Psychoeducation and relapse prevention work focused on practical tools for daily life
Medication management, when clinically appropriate
The day is designed to balance structure and support with opportunities for reflection and growth. Clients return home in the evenings, allowing them to practice new skills in real-life settings while maintaining connection to their support systems.
If you’d like to learn whether this level of structure is right for you, you can schedule a confidential assessment with our team.
The length of a Partial Hospitalization Program varies based on individual needs, clinical progress, and treatment goals. Most adults participate in PHP for approximately 2 to 6 weeks, attending programming five days per week for several hours each day.
Some individuals may require a shorter stabilization period, while others benefit from a longer course of structured support—particularly if they are transitioning from residential treatment or managing co-occurring mental health conditions.
Throughout the program, our clinical team regularly evaluates progress and adjusts the treatment plan as needed. When appropriate, clients step down to a lower level of care, such as an Intensive Outpatient Program or traditional outpatient therapy, to continue building stability and momentum in recovery.
Not sure which level of care is right for you? Call (774) 341-4502 for a confidential assessment.
For individuals struggling with substance use, our Partial Hospitalization Program provides structured, full-day outpatient treatment without requiring overnight care. This level of support is appropriate for those who need daily accountability, intensive therapy, and clinical oversight while remaining connected to home or sober living.
Treatment focuses not only on stopping substance use, but on understanding the underlying patterns that contribute to it. Many individuals in PHP are also navigating co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Our team addresses both substance use and mental health together, ensuring care is coordinated and comprehensive.
Through individual therapy, skills-based groups, relapse prevention planning, and medication management when appropriate, clients build the stability and structure needed to move toward long-term recovery.
Our PHP program offers a structured, intensive treatment option for individuals struggling with mental health issues who need more support than traditional outpatient care but do not require 24-hour supervision. Day treatment provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment, including individual therapy, group counseling, and therapeutic activities. Clients participate in daily treatment sessions, focusing on coping strategies, emotional regulation, and addressing the underlying causes of mental health challenges. The day treatment program allows individuals to return home in the evenings, offering a balance of intensive care during the day while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, our day treatment program is designed to help clients build a strong foundation for recovery, providing the support and tools needed to achieve long-term mental wellness.
A day treatment program offers an intensive level of care for individuals struggling with addiction or mental health issues who need more support than traditional outpatient services but do not require 24-hour residential care. Day treatment typically involves structured therapy sessions during the day, including individual and group counseling, psychiatric support, and life skills development, while allowing clients to return home in the evenings.
Day treatment is an excellent option for those who need a higher level of care but still want to maintain some level of independence. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who have completed inpatient treatment and are transitioning to a less intensive form of care or for those who require more support than what outpatient therapy alone can offer.
If you or a loved one are experiencing significant challenges with addiction or mental health issues but can safely return home at night, day treatment may be the right choice. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we work with each individual to assess their needs and create a personalized treatment plan that ensures the right level of care. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support to help clients achieve lasting recovery and emotional well-being.
A Partial Hospitalization Program is designed for adults who need structured, intensive support but do not require 24-hour inpatient care. PHP is often appropriate for individuals who:
Are experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use
Need more support than weekly therapy or traditional outpatient care
Are stepping down from residential treatment
Are at risk of relapse and need daily accountability
Can safely return home or to a sober living environment in the evenings
PHP typically provides 20–30 hours of structured clinical care per week while allowing you to remain connected to home and family.
A higher level of care may be recommended if someone:
Requires medical detoxification
Is experiencing active suicidal intent or medical instability
Cannot safely manage symptoms outside a 24-hour supervised setting
Our clinical team completes a thorough assessment to ensure you are placed in the safest and most effective level of care.
If you’re unsure what level of support you need, call (774) 341-4502 for a confidential consultation.
In most states, a Partial Hospitalization Program refers to a structured outpatient program that provides several hours of clinical care per day, typically five days per week. In Massachusetts, this same level of care is licensed under the term “Day Treatment.” While the terminology may differ, the intensity and structure of care are the same.
Yes. Group therapy is one of the most effective components of a PHP. It provides peer accountability, shared perspective, and real-time practice of coping and communication skills. Many individuals find that hearing others articulate similar struggles reduces isolation and builds motivation for change.
As clients stabilize and meet treatment goals, they typically step down to a lower level of care, such as an Intensive Outpatient Program or traditional outpatient therapy. Before discharge, our team develops a clear aftercare plan that may include continued therapy, medication management, community support groups, and relapse prevention planning.
Because PHP typically involves 20–30 hours of treatment per week during daytime hours, working full-time may be difficult. Some clients are able to maintain part-time or flexible employment, depending on their schedule and clinical needs. Our team can help you evaluate whether PHP fits your current responsibilities.
When clinically appropriate, family involvement can be an important part of treatment. We may offer family sessions, education, or guidance to help loved ones better understand the recovery process and learn how to provide healthy support.
If transportation is a concern, our admissions team can discuss options with you during the intake process. We encourage clients to plan reliable transportation in advance to ensure consistent participation in programming, which is essential for progress in PHP.
Discharge planning begins early in treatment. As clients make progress, our team collaborates with them to identify next steps, which may include stepping down to IOP, continuing individual therapy, connecting with community resources, or coordinating with outside providers. The goal is to ensure continuity of care and reduce the risk of relapse after PHP ends.
“Alcohol Causes 1 in 20 Deaths in Massachusetts.” Boston University School of Public Health, 2022.
“Massachusetts Drug Control Update.” Executive Office of the President of the United States, accessed 2023.
Massachusetts Health Policy Commission. (2023). Behavioral Health in Massachusetts: 2023 Survey Results. Retrieved from https://www.chiamass.gov/assets/docs/r/survey/mhis-2023/MHIS-2023-05-Behavioral-Health.pdf
University of Southern California, Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics. (2019). Massachusetts Health Policy Chartbook (Version 3). Retrieved from https://healthpolicy.usc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/MA-Chartbook-v3-2019.pdf
If you’re searching for PHP programs in Massachusetts, Lion Heart Behavioral Health offers structured, evidence-based care for adults who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy but do not require inpatient treatment. Our partial hospitalization program combines individual therapy, group therapy, skill development, and personalized treatment planning while allowing participants to return home at the end of each day. Conveniently located in Raynham, we proudly serve individuals throughout Bristol County, the South Shore, and surrounding Massachusetts communities.
Conveniently located in Raynham, Massachusetts, Lion Heart Behavioral Health proudly serves individuals across Taunton, Brockton, Fall River, New Bedford, and surrounding areas of the South Shore and Bristol County.
At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we specialize in treating a wide range of substance use disorders with compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to meet each individual’s needs. Whether you’re struggling with alcohol, drugs, or other substances, our programs provide a supportive and safe environment to help you break free from addiction and start your recovery journey.
Treatment in our Partial Hospitalization Program incorporates evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs, including:
Relapse prevention planning
Medication management, when appropriate
Rather than relying on a single method, our clinical team integrates these therapies into a coordinated treatment plan designed to build stability, emotional regulation, and long-term recovery skills.
If you’re trying to understand how different levels of care compare, our PHP vs. IOP guide explains how structure, time commitment, and clinical support differ between these two levels of care and can help you understand which may be the better fit.
When it comes to addiction treatment, it’s important to understand the different levels of care available. Two common forms of outpatient treatment are night treatment program and day treatment program. Both offer structured treatment while allowing individuals to live at home or in a supportive community, but they differ in terms of intensity and commitment.
Many insurance plans do provide coverage for a day treatment program, but the extent of coverage can vary depending on your provider and policy. Your insurance provider likely calls this level of are a Partial Hospitalization Program. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we work with most major insurance companies to help make your treatment as accessible as possible. We encourage you to reach out to our admissions team to verify your insurance benefits and understand what costs are covered.
Our team will guide you through the process, ensuring that you know exactly what your plan offers and helping you navigate any financial questions you may have. If you do not have insurance or need additional support, we can explore other payment options and resources to ensure you receive the care you need.
Taking the first step toward recovery is an investment in your future, and we’re here to make sure you have the support and information you need to make the process easier.
The admission process for our day treatment program at Lion Heart Behavioral Health is designed to be clear, supportive, and focused on your needs. It begins with an initial call to our admissions team, where we’ll gather some basic information about your situation and assess whether day treatment is the right level of care for you. Afterward, you’ll undergo a thorough clinical evaluation to better understand your specific treatment needs, including your mental health and addiction history. Based on this evaluation, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that includes therapies, support services, and treatment goals tailored to your recovery journey. Our admissions team will also assist you with insurance verification and financial questions to ensure that you have a clear understanding of your options. Once everything is in place, you’ll begin the day treatment program, receiving intensive, structured support while still being able to live at home or in a supportive living environment. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way, ensuring that you get the care you need for a successful recovery.
The cost of day treatment can vary depending on factors such as the length of treatment, the level of care required, and your insurance coverage. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we are committed to making addiction treatment accessible. We accept most major insurance plans, and our team can assist with insurance verification to help you understand your coverage and out-of-pocket costs. If you do not have insurance or need assistance with financial planning, reach out to us. The investment in a day treatment program is a crucial step toward recovery, and our goal is to make the process as clear and manageable as possible for you or your loved one.
If you’ve been researching treatment options, you may have come across the term Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). In most states, PHP refers to a structured outpatient program providing approximately 25–30 hours of clinical care per week.
In Massachusetts, however, the Department of Public Health licenses this level of care under the category of Day Treatment Services. While insurance companies and providers may still use the term PHP, programs like ours are officially referred to as Day Treatment under state regulations.
In other words, our Day Treatment Program delivers the same level of structured, intensive outpatient care that is commonly known as PHP in other parts of the country.
If you’re unsure how your insurance refers to this level of care, our admissions team can help clarify your benefits through our insurance verification process.
Regulatory Clarification: According to guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), the terms Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) are not recognized as licensable service categories under BSAS regulations. Instead, services that might be referred to as PHP or IOP elsewhere are licensed under the category of Day Treatment Services in Massachusetts.
Licensing and Marketing: BSAS emphasizes that providers licensed for Day Treatment Services must accurately represent their services in marketing materials and should not label them as PHP or IOP. However, they can note that insurance companies or other states might use these terms to describe similar services.
Overwhelmed? Don’t worry. You don’t need to be an expert on this! Our admissions team will guide you on the right level of care and will liaison with your insurance company to ensure proper coverage.
At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we believe in the power of second chances. We’re here to walk alongside you, providing the support and guidance needed to overcome addiction and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life.
We know that asking for help is a big step, and we’re honored to be part of your recovery journey. Our compassionate team is ready to work with you, creating a personalized treatment plan that meets you where you are. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible.
Tom believes that meaningful change begins with feeling heard, respected, and genuinely understood. His therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and trauma-informed care, creating a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where clients feel empowered to explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward lasting healing.
As a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (LADC II), Tom has experience working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health and substance use concerns across multiple levels of care. He is passionate about helping clients recognize their strengths while developing practical tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence, emotional awareness, and self-compassion. Tom views therapy as a collaborative partnership, tailoring his approach to meet each person’s unique experiences, goals, and values.
Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bay Path University with a concentration in Trauma-Informed Care, Tom is committed to continually expanding his clinical knowledge and providing evidence-based, culturally responsive care. He has a particular passion for working with LGBTQ+ individuals, supporting men’s mental health, and helping adolescents and young adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and identity development.
Known for his calm presence, genuine empathy, and approachable style, Tom strives to foster meaningful therapeutic relationships built on trust, respect, and collaboration. He believes that healing occurs when individuals feel accepted for who they are while being encouraged to discover who they can become.
Outside of the therapy room, Tom enjoys spending time with family and friends, camping, weightlifting, and staying active. He believes that maintaining balance, practicing self-care, and prioritizing overall wellness enhances his ability to support others as they pursue healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Arielle is a compassionate mental health clinician who believes that meaningful change begins with feeling safe, heard, and genuinely understood. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), she is dedicated to creating a welcoming, collaborative therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and move toward lasting emotional wellness.
Arielle’s approach is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and trust. She believes the therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation for growth and strives to balance compassion with thoughtful accountability. By helping clients recognize patterns, deepen self-awareness, and develop practical coping strategies, she supports individuals in creating meaningful, sustainable change both inside and outside of the therapy room.
Working collaboratively with each client, Arielle tailors treatment to meet their unique needs, values, and goals. She has experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, and major life transitions, meeting clients where they are while encouraging growth at a pace that feels both supportive and achievable. Her person-centered approach emphasizes resilience, self-compassion, and empowering clients to develop the confidence and skills needed to navigate life’s challenges.
Arielle earned her Master’s degree from Salem State University and completed her undergraduate education at The Pennsylvania State University. She is passionate about helping individuals discover their strengths, cultivate resilience, and create fulfilling lives built on hope, healing, and personal growth.
Jill is a dedicated behavioral health clinician who believes that healing begins when individuals feel truly seen, heard, and accepted for who they are. Since beginning her career in behavioral health in 2015, she has been honored to support children, adolescents, adults, and families through some of life’s most challenging moments. Her diverse clinical experience has reinforced her belief that meaningful and lasting change begins with genuine connection, compassion, and a therapeutic relationship built on trust.
Throughout her career, Jill has served in a variety of clinical roles, including high school intervention specialist, family specialist and outreach worker, program clinician in a children’s emergency residence, and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) clinician before joining Lion Heart Behavioral Health in 2026. These experiences have provided her with a broad understanding of the unique challenges individuals and families face across the lifespan while strengthening her commitment to providing personalized, client-centered care.
Jill earned her Master of Science in Psychology with dual specializations in Educational and Counseling Psychology from Capella University and her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology from Kaplan University. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), integrating evidence-based interventions with warmth, authenticity, and genuine curiosity about each client’s unique experiences.
Known for her compassionate and approachable style, Jill creates a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe exploring challenges, identifying strengths, and developing practical skills to navigate life’s obstacles. She recognizes the courage it takes to seek support and considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals as they build resilience, foster self-understanding, and work toward meaningful, lasting recovery.
Jill is passionate about helping every client leave therapy feeling empowered, supported, and hopeful. She believes that with the right support, meaningful change is always possible and is committed to helping individuals discover the confidence and resilience needed to create fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.
Kevin brings a unique combination of professional expertise, lived experience, and genuine compassion to his work as a therapist. Since beginning his own recovery journey in 2016, he has remained committed to helping others discover that lasting recovery is not only possible, but transformative. His personal experiences have shaped his deep understanding of addiction, resilience, and the courage it takes to create meaningful change.
Over the past seven years, Kevin has dedicated his career to working with individuals navigating substance use disorders and recovery. He earned his Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (LADC II) credential in 2024, further strengthening his clinical knowledge and commitment to evidence-based care. Clients appreciate Kevin’s authenticity, empathy, and ability to build trust through genuine connection. His approach is grounded in the belief that every individual possesses the strength and capacity for growth, regardless of where they are in their recovery journey.
Kevin’s work is driven by a passion for empowering others to rediscover hope, develop confidence, and build fulfilling lives in recovery. He recognizes that healing extends beyond sobriety and focuses on helping clients develop the tools, insight, and resilience needed for long-term success.
Outside of the therapy room, Kevin is a devoted husband, father, brother, son, and friend. He has also been deeply involved in music throughout his life, performing as a lead vocalist with local bands for more than 30 years. His love of music, combined with his personal and professional experiences, allows him to connect with people from all walks of life in an authentic and meaningful way.
Kevin believes that some of life’s greatest challenges can become the foundation for purpose, healing, and personal transformation. His warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment to those he serves make him a trusted guide for individuals seeking lasting recovery and a renewed sense of hope.
Nicole brings nearly a decade of experience in substance use disorder treatment, having worked across multiple levels of care since 2015. With a background in psychology and extensive experience supporting individuals throughout their recovery journeys, she has developed a compassionate, person-centered approach that recognizes there is no single path to healing. Nicole believes that every individual’s lived experience is unique and deserving of respect, understanding, and individualized care.
Throughout her career, Nicole has been dedicated to helping clients move beyond symptom management by exploring the underlying patterns that contribute to substance use. She works collaboratively with individuals to strengthen emotional regulation, develop effective coping strategies, and build the insight and resilience necessary to support long-term recovery. Her therapeutic approach considers the whole person, recognizing the powerful connection between thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, and life experiences.
Known for her calm presence, genuine empathy, and ability to foster meaningful therapeutic relationships, Nicole creates a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore challenges, celebrate progress, and embrace lasting change. She is passionate about helping individuals discover their strengths, restore hope, and build lives that reflect their values and recovery goals.
Nicole believes recovery is about more than achieving sobriety—it is about creating a fulfilling, balanced life built on self-awareness, resilience, and purpose. She is committed to walking alongside each client as they navigate the challenges of recovery while helping them develop the confidence and skills needed to sustain meaningful, lifelong change.
Emily is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to helping individuals navigate mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and the path toward lasting recovery. She earned her Master of Social Work, with a Certificate in Trauma Practice, from Simmons University in 2024 and has continued to expand her clinical expertise through advanced training in co-occurring disorders and evidence-based treatment. Emily completed a Substance Use Disorders Certificate in Assessment and Treatment Strategies with Teens and Adults through Bridgewater State University and is currently pursuing a Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling at Bristol Community College to further strengthen her clinical knowledge and specialized skills.
Emily’s therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), integrating practical, evidence-based interventions with genuine compassion and collaboration. She works alongside clients to better understand the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while helping them develop healthier coping strategies, strengthen emotional regulation, and create meaningful, sustainable change. Emily believes that healing begins with feeling understood, and she is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where every individual feels empowered to grow at their own pace.
Known for her warmth, authenticity, and positive energy, Emily quickly builds strong therapeutic relationships founded on trust, respect, and encouragement. She is passionate about helping clients recognize their strengths, overcome life’s challenges, and move toward lives that are aligned with their values and goals.
Outside of the therapy room, Emily is an accomplished lacrosse coach at both the club and collegiate levels. Having played competitively throughout high school and college, she enjoys mentoring athletes and helping them develop confidence, resilience, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the field. In her free time, Emily enjoys reading and creating diamond art, finding creativity and balance through these hobbies.
Emily believes that growth is possible for everyone and is honored to walk alongside clients as they build resilience, discover hope, and create lasting change.
Amanda Campbell, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to adults experiencing a wide range of mental health and co-occurring conditions.
Amanda provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and ongoing treatment planning as part of a multidisciplinary team. She believes in partnering with patients through shared decision-making, recognizing that each individual’s experiences, goals, and recovery journey are unique.
Amanda is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where patients feel heard and respected. She emphasizes evidence-based treatment, patient education, and practical strategies that empower individuals to build resilience, improve daily functioning, and achieve lasting mental wellness.
Nicole Hunter serves as Program Director with a leadership style rooted in authenticity, compassion, and lived experience. She has been in recovery from substance use for several years, and while recovery is the foundation of the life she has built, it is far more than something in her past—it continues to shape who she is, how she leads, and why she is so deeply passionate about helping others find their own path forward.
Nicole remembers what it felt like to walk into treatment, unsure of what life could look like on the other side. She also understands that recovery isn’t something we simply “graduate” from. Even years later, there are seasons when we need to reconnect with the tools, principles, and support that keep us grounded. Having experienced her own mental health challenges alongside recovery, she understands that healing is rarely one-dimensional. This perspective allows her to genuinely relate to individuals navigating both substance use and mental health, meeting them with empathy instead of judgment and hope instead of shame.
For Nicole, this work has never been just a career—it is deeply personal. Her passion comes from walking alongside people who are making one of the hardest and bravest decisions of their lives: choosing to rebuild. She believes there is something incredibly powerful about witnessing someone begin to believe in themselves again, often before they are able to see their own potential. Being trusted to share in that journey is something she never takes for granted.
Nicole believes every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued—not for who they might become someday, but for who they are the moment they walk through the door. No two clients are the same, and she is committed to ensuring treatment reflects the unique strengths, challenges, goals, and experiences of each individual. She believes healing happens through individualized care, genuine connection, and creating an environment where people feel safe enough to be honest and supported enough to grow.
Nicole’s clinical philosophy combines evidence-based practices with the belief that the therapeutic relationship itself is one of the most powerful tools for change. Throughout her years working in behavioral health across a variety of clinical and leadership roles, she has developed a flexible, person-centered approach that meets individuals where they are while empowering them to discover where they are capable of going. She celebrates every step forward, knowing that meaningful progress is often made through small, consistent victories rather than dramatic breakthroughs.
Whether she is supporting clients or leading the multidisciplinary team at the program, Nicole lives by the principle of unconditional positive regard. She believes people grow when they feel respected, challenged, supported, and genuinely believed in. She strives to create a culture where clients and staff alike feel empowered to learn, take healthy risks, and recognize their own strengths.
Above all, Nicole believes that recovery is possible, healing is possible, and that every person deserves individualized care, unwavering respect, and the opportunity to build a life they are proud of. Her goal is simple: to help create a space where people feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to grow, and empowered enough to realize that lasting change is within reach.
Bill Abbate brings more than 16 years of experience in the substance use disorder field, along with over 17 years of sustained recovery, providing him with a unique combination of professional expertise and lived experience. Throughout his career, Bill has remained deeply committed to helping individuals and families discover hope, healing, and lasting recovery through compassionate, person-centered care.
Beginning his career as a Recovery Aide, Bill gained invaluable hands-on experience across the continuum of addiction treatment, developing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges individuals face at every stage of recovery. His dedication, leadership, and passion for serving others have guided his progression into his current role as Director of Patient & Family Services.
At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, Bill leads the Patient and Family Services Department, overseeing the Family Support and Recovery Coaching Program. He is responsible for developing and coordinating recovery coaching services, supporting and training family coaches, and ensuring patients and their loved ones receive consistent, evidence-informed care throughout the recovery process. Bill believes that lasting recovery extends beyond the individual and that empowering families is an essential component of long-term healing.
Bill holds credentials as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (LADC II), Certified Addiction Recovery Coach (CARC), and National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS). His leadership style blends clinical best practices with the power of lived experience, allowing him to build authentic relationships while fostering resilience, accountability, and hope among both patients and staff.
Known for his warmth, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to the recovery community, Bill is passionate about helping individuals recognize that recovery is not only possible—it can become a foundation for a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
Outside of his professional role, Bill remains actively involved in recovery communities and enjoys attending recovery-focused events across the country. When he’s not supporting others, he enjoys traveling, motorcycling, surfing, and snowboarding. He is also a proud father who values family, connection, and living a life rooted in gratitude and service.
From the beginning of her career, Liz Forgue-McRae has believed that the best leaders are coaches first.
Her passion for helping others began long before entering the counseling profession as a competitive swim coach and manager at the YMCA, where she coached and mentored nearly 200 swimmers. Known for her unwavering encouragement and enthusiasm, Liz spent years helping young athletes push beyond perceived limitations, celebrate accomplishments, and develop confidence both in and out of the water. That same philosophy continues to shape her leadership and clinical approach today.
Liz earned her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth before completing her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling at Bridgewater State University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island and is a Certified Clinical Supervisor through the Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association (MAMHCA).
With more than a decade of experience across the behavioral healthcare continuum, Liz has provided leadership and clinical services within inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and community-based treatment settings. Her professional experience includes program development, clinical supervision, staff training, compliance and quality improvement, and multidisciplinary leadership.
Liz has extensive experience working with first responders, active-duty service members, veterans, healthcare professionals, and individuals navigating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. She is passionate about creating environments where individuals feel supported, empowered, and equipped to achieve lasting recovery and personal growth.
As Clinical Director, Liz is dedicated to fostering a culture of clinical excellence through compassionate leadership, evidence-based treatment, and meaningful collaboration. She believes exceptional care begins with exceptional teams and is committed to mentoring clinicians while ensuring every client receives high-quality, individualized treatment.
Whether leading a clinical team, developing innovative programming, or supporting individuals through life’s most difficult challenges, Liz remains guided by the same principle that first inspired her career: helping people recognize their strengths, overcome obstacles, and realize their full potential.