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Drug Addiction Treatment in Bristol County, MA

Drug Addiction Treatment: A Path to Recovery and Renewal

Overcoming drug addiction is hard — and you shouldn’t have to do it alone. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we provide structured, compassionate outpatient care for people who want help with prescription drug misuse, illicit substances, or ongoing dependence that’s starting to affect their life, health, or relationships.

Our team uses evidence-based treatment programs to support both the physical and psychological sides of addiction. We meet you where you are, help you understand what level of care makes sense, and build a plan you can realistically follow — one step at a time.

Understanding Drug Addiction: Breaking the Cycle, Embracing Recovery

Drug addiction is a chronic condition that impacts the brain and body. Over time, a person may become physically and psychologically dependent on a substance — even when it’s causing serious consequences.

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we don’t treat addiction like a moral failure. We treat it like what it is: a medical and behavioral health condition that responds to compassionate care, clinical structure, and the right supports. Through individualized planning and proven therapies, we help clients build a foundation for long-term recovery.

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Find Help Now (Confidential Support & Treatment Resources)

If you’re not sure what to do next — or you need help today — you have options.

  • SAMHSA National Helpline: free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral support at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
  • FindTreatment.gov: a confidential treatment locator for substance use and mental health services.

If you’re local and want to talk through outpatient options, our team can help you decide what level of support fits.

Do I Need Treatment for My Drug Use?

Recognizing the need for treatment is a crucial step in overcoming drug addiction, but it can be challenging to determine when drug use has become a problem. If you’re questioning whether you need treatment, it’s important to be honest with yourself about how your drug use is affecting your life. Addiction often develops gradually, and many people don’t realize the extent of their dependency until it begins to interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being.

Signs that you may need treatment for drug use include:

  • Inability to control use: If you’ve tried to reduce or stop using drugs but find it difficult or impossible, it may be time to seek professional help.
  • Increased tolerance: Needing larger amounts of the drug to achieve the same effect is a sign of growing dependence.
  • Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical or emotional symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or nausea when not using drugs can indicate that you’re physically dependent.
  • Impact on responsibilities: Drug use that interferes with work, family obligations, or social life is a clear sign that it’s negatively affecting your life.
  • Using drugs to cope: Turning to drugs as a way to deal with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain is a common sign of addiction.

If you recognize any of these signs in your life, it may be time to consider professional treatment. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we’re here to help you understand your relationship with drugs and offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment to guide you toward lasting recovery. Our team is ready to support you in taking the first step toward a healthier, drug-free life.

Drug Treatment Program Options at Lion Heart Behavioral Health

Not everyone needs the same intensity of treatment. We offer a continuum of outpatient care, so you can get the structure you need while staying connected to your daily life.

Day Treatment Program (PHP)

Partial Hospitalization programs are right for people who need high structure and frequent support during the week, without overnight care.

Night Treatment Program (IOP)

An Intensive outpatient program strong fit if you need more than weekly therapy, but you still need flexibility for work, school, or family responsibilities.

Outpatient Program (OP)

Outpatient programs are ideal for people who are stable enough for lower-intensity care, often as a step-down from PHP/IOP or as a first step for mild-to-moderate needs.

Not sure what level you need? Call (774) 341-4502 and we’ll talk it through.

Therapeutic Approaches for Drug Addiction Treatment

Our therapy services are designed to address the emotional and behavioral roots of addiction — not just the symptoms. We use evidence-based approaches to help clients build coping skills, increase stability, and strengthen long-term recovery.

These therapies work best when paired with a personalized treatment plan and consistent support — so you can heal, rebuild trust in yourself, and move forward with a real strategy.

How to Choose the Right Drug Treatment Program

You don’t need to diagnose yourself — but these guidelines can help:

  • You may need higher structure (PHP) if you’re struggling to stay sober between sessions, your cravings feel intense, or your life has become unstable.
  • You may be a fit for IOP if you need consistent support multiple times per week but you can still manage home responsibilities safely.
  • Outpatient may be enough if you’re stable, motivated, and need ongoing therapeutic support and accountability.

Our admissions team will assess what’s going on (substance use history, mental health, risk factors, and support system) and recommend the most appropriate next step.

Finding a Reputable Drug Treatment Program in Massachusetts

If you’re searching for a drug treatment program, focus on programs that offer:

  • Evidence-based therapies and individualized planning
  • Clear program structure (schedule, expectations, step-down options)
  • Support for co-occurring mental health concerns
  • Aftercare planning and relapse-prevention support
  • Transparent insurance and payment guidance

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we help individuals across Massachusetts access supportive outpatient care and understand their options — including what level of care is most realistic and effective for their situation.

Is Drug Addiction Treatment Covered By My Insurance Provider?

Many insurance plans provide coverage for addiction treatment services, including outpatient programming, therapy, and counseling. Our team can help you verify benefits and understand what your plan may cover.

What helps to have ready (if available):

  • Insurance card (member ID/group number)
  • Your availability (day vs evening)
  • Any recent treatment history (if applicable)

What to Expect: The Admissions Process at Lion Heart Behavioral Health

We aim to keep your first steps simple and supportive. Here’s what typically happens:

  1. Reach out by phone or online — we’ll listen and answer questions.
  2. Brief assessment — we’ll learn about substance use history, mental health, medical considerations, and what support you have right now.
  3. Program recommendation — we’ll suggest the right level of care (PHP, IOP, or outpatient) and explain why.
  4. Insurance verification + payment clarity — so you understand coverage and options before you start.
  5. Start services — you’ll begin with a personalized plan and a team that supports you throughout your care.

Understanding the Admissions Process at Lion Heart Behavioral Health

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we strive to make the admission process as smooth and supportive as possible. The process begins when you reach out to our admissions team by phone or through our website, where we’ll listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. After gathering initial information, we conduct a thorough assessment to better understand your addiction, mental health, and medical history. Based on this assessment, we work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and recovery goals. Our team will also assist you with insurance verification and payment options to ensure clarity around coverage and financial aspects. Once your treatment plan is in place, you’ll begin your recovery journey with us, supported every step of the way by our dedicated professionals. At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we are here to help you take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Understanding the Costs of Drug Addiction Treatment

Cost varies based on the level of care, length of treatment, and your insurance coverage. We accept many major insurance plans and can help you understand benefits, expected out-of-pocket costs, and available payment options.

If you have questions about affordability, call our admissions team — we’ll walk you through your options with clarity and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Treatment Programs

Length varies based on your needs, progress, and level of care. Many people start with a higher level (PHP/IOP) and step down over time.

Some people do. If withdrawal risk is a concern, we’ll help you determine the safest next step based on your substance use history.

PHP is typically more hours per week and more structure. IOP offers strong support with a schedule that often works better with work or school.

Many people can continue working while in IOP or outpatient care. We’ll help you choose a program schedule that fits.

Many plans offer coverage. Our team can verify benefits and explain what your plan may include.

We focus on helping you build sustainable coping strategies and a plan to maintain progress beyond structured programming.

Your Recovery Journey Begins Here

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we believe in second chances — and in care that’s compassionate, structured, and realistic for your life. When you’re ready, we’re ready.

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.