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Is an Intensive Outpatient Program Right for You?

Is an Intensive Outpatient Program Right for You

When you’re navigating mental health challenges, trauma, or substance use recovery, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing the right level of care. Not everyone needs inpatient treatment—but many need more than just a weekly therapy session.

That’s where an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) can be a life-changing solution.

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, our Intensive Outpatient Program in Massachusetts provides clients with the structure, support, and tools they need to recover—while still allowing them to live at home, work, care for loved ones, or go to school. If you’re seeking meaningful, flexible treatment that fits into your life, IOP could be the perfect next step.

What Is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?

An IOP is a form of structured outpatient care that provides more hours of therapy per week than standard outpatient therapy, but without the 24/7 care of inpatient or residential treatment.

IOPs typically involve:

  • 3–5 treatment days per week
  • 3–4 hours of therapy per day
  • A combination of individual counseling, group therapy, psychiatric services, and skill-building

IOPs are appropriate for people who are:

  • Stable enough to live at home
  • Motivated for recovery
  • Looking for a step down from a higher level of care (inpatient or PHP)
  • Needing a step up from traditional outpatient therapy due to worsening symptoms

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, our IOP is part of a full continuum of care, including:

Who Is IOP Designed For?

IOPs serve a wide variety of individuals who need frequent, focused care. You may benefit from IOP if you are:

  • Struggling with moderate to severe anxiety or depression
  • Living with PTSD or unresolved trauma
  • In early recovery from substance use
  • Experiencing emotional dysregulation (difficulty controlling emotions)
  • Coping with a recent relapse or mental health crisis
  • Dealing with co-occurring disorders (e.g., anxiety and addiction)

IOP is especially beneficial for people who have already completed an inpatient or PHP program and are looking for the next phase of recovery in a safe, clinically supervised setting.

Key Benefits of IOP

1. Balance Between Treatment and Independence

IOP allows you to participate in daily therapy while still engaging in real-world responsibilities. This is critical for:

  • Practicing coping skills in everyday settings
  • Maintaining or re-establishing work, school, or family routines
  • Reinforcing recovery in real time, with real challenges

2. Consistent, Intensive Therapy

Unlike standard outpatient therapy, which may be once per week, IOP offers multiple therapy sessions per week, allowing for:

  • Faster progress
  • Deeper emotional insight
  • Quicker stabilization of symptoms

3. Individualized, Evidence-Based Care

At Lion Heart, your care plan is customized to your unique needs, and may include:

  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for reframing negative thought patterns
  • DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for managing emotions and improving relationships
  • Trauma-informed therapy for healing unresolved pain
  • Relapse prevention and recovery coaching for clients with addiction

4. Access to Psychiatric Support

IOP participants benefit from ongoing access to psychiatric providers, who can:

  • Adjust medications as needed
  • Monitor mood and symptom response
  • Help clients manage side effects or medication adherence

A Day in the Life: What to Expect in IOP at Lion Heart Behavioral Health

Each client’s schedule is adapted to their treatment goals, but a typical IOP day might include:

  • Morning Check-In: Emotional safety review, mindfulness activity, daily goal setting
  • Group Therapy: Topic-focused sessions on coping skills, emotional regulation, or trauma recovery
  • Breaks and reflection time
  • Individual Counseling: Weekly or bi-weekly one-on-one therapy
  • Psychiatric Check-Ins: Ongoing medication management and symptom evaluation
  • Skill Development Workshops: Focused on communication, boundaries, self-esteem, and crisis prevention
  • Discharge Planning and Case Management: For long-term stability after IOP

IOP vs. PHP vs. Outpatient – Which One Is Right for You?

Understanding how IOP compares to other levels of care helps you decide which program best meets your needs:

Level of Care Schedule Best For Environment
Inpatient/Residential 24/7 care Severe mental health or addiction crises Highly structured, live-in
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) 5–6 hrs/day, 5 days/week Post-inpatient or high-risk symptoms Daytime clinical care, return home
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) 3–4 hrs/day, 3–5 days/week Stable clients needing structure Flexibility + support
Outpatient 1–2 hrs/week Maintenance or early-stage concerns Fully independent, minimal structure

How IOP Supports Family Involvement in Recovery

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we understand that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Mental health and addiction challenges often ripple through families, impacting communication, trust, roles, and emotional safety. Likewise, recovery becomes stronger, more sustainable, and more meaningful when loved ones are part of the journey.

That’s why our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) places a strong emphasis on family involvement as an essential part of treatment—not just as support, but as an active component of the healing process.

Family Therapy: Rebuilding Trust and Strengthening Communication

Family therapy sessions are available to help clients and their loved ones rebuild strained relationships, improve communication patterns, and set healthier boundaries. These sessions are facilitated by trained family therapists who ensure that every participant is heard, respected, and guided toward constructive dialogue.

Common goals of family therapy in IOP include:

  • Repairing trust that may have been eroded by addiction, depression, anxiety, or past conflicts

  • Teaching families how to respond to emotional needs without enabling harmful behaviors

  • Helping clients assert their needs without shame or fear of rejection

  • Developing clear, compassionate boundaries that honor both the individual’s recovery and the family’s well-being

Rather than rehashing blame or old resentments, family therapy at Lion Heart focuses on moving forward—together.

Psychoeducation for Families

Understanding mental health and addiction is critical for families who want to provide support without becoming overwhelmed themselves. We offer psychoeducational sessions to teach loved ones about:

  • The nature of conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders

  • The science behind trauma and its effects on emotions and behavior

  • Common pitfalls (e.g., enabling, codependency) and healthier alternatives

  • Relapse warning signs and how to respond appropriately

  • Self-care strategies for caregivers and partners

Knowledge reduces fear and stigma, empowering families to engage in recovery with compassion and confidence.

Support for Spouses, Parents, and Children

Recovery isn’t only about the individual. Spouses, partners, parents, and even children often carry emotional wounds related to their loved one’s struggles. Through IOP, we provide resources and referrals for family members to receive their own support—whether through family sessions, group education, or outside counseling services.
By helping the whole family heal, we set the stage for stronger, healthier relationships after treatment concludes.

Family Involvement in Treatment Planning and Discharge Preparation

Families are welcome—when appropriate and with the client’s consent—to participate in treatment planning meetings and discharge planning. This ensures that everyone understands the client’s goals, progress, aftercare needs, and boundaries before transitioning out of IOP.

Family members are guided on:

  • How to provide accountability without micromanaging

  • How to celebrate progress in meaningful ways

  • How to manage setbacks or challenges post-treatment

Is IOP the Right Level of Care for Your Recovery

Success Stories and Common Outcomes from IOP

When prospective clients consider entering an Intensive Outpatient Program, a common question is: “What results can I expect?” While each recovery journey is unique, there are consistent milestones and success patterns we observe among clients who commit to the IOP process at Lion Heart Behavioral Health.

Early Outcomes: The First Few Weeks

In the initial stages of IOP, many clients begin to experience small but significant improvements, including:

  • Better sleep patterns after addressing anxiety or intrusive thoughts

  • Stabilized mood, with fewer emotional outbursts or depressive episodes

  • Increased motivation to engage in therapy, relationships, and daily activities

  • Reduced isolation, thanks to peer support and structured therapeutic environments

These early wins help build momentum and reinforce that change is not only possible but happening in real time.

Mid-Program Milestones: Weeks Four to Eight

As therapy deepens, clients often achieve bigger breakthroughs, such as:

  • Improved emotional regulation, with fewer panic attacks or anger outbursts

  • Reduced cravings for substances or self-harming behaviors

  • Stronger coping skills when facing stress or triggers

  • Clearer communication skills in relationships with family, friends, and coworkers

At this stage, many clients begin working on re-entering educational programs, job searches, or expanded social engagement, supported by their treatment team.

Success Story Snapshots

One recent graduate of our IOP was a young professional battling depression and binge drinking after losing a parent. Through trauma therapy, peer support, and family counseling, he was able to achieve sobriety, rebuild relationships with siblings, and return to graduate school with new emotional tools for resilience.

Another client, a mother of two, struggled with PTSD and anxiety stemming from an abusive relationship. After completing IOP, she reported better emotional regulation, repaired bonds with her children, and newfound self-confidence that allowed her to return to the workforce part-time for the first time in years.

These aren’t isolated cases. They represent what happens when clients are given the right mix of support, structure, and self-empowerment.

Long-Term Gains After IOP

Recovery doesn’t end when IOP does—it strengthens. After completing our Intensive Outpatient Program, many clients report:

  • Returning to full-time work or school with new emotional resilience

  • Reconnecting with estranged family members or building new relationships

  • Greater independence and ability to manage mental health symptoms

  • A reduced risk of relapse, hospitalization, or crisis intervention

  • A dramatically improved quality of life, with hope for the future

Clinical research supports these observations. Studies have shown that structured IOP programs can lead to significant symptom reduction for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders—with outcomes often matching or even exceeding those of residential care when followed by strong aftercare.

Can IOP Treat Dual Diagnosis Conditions?

Yes—IOP is a highly effective option for individuals with dual diagnosis, which refers to a co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder.

At Lion Heart, we offer specialized dual diagnosis care in IOP that includes:

  • Integrated group sessions for addiction and mental health
  • Individual therapy for underlying trauma, grief, or stress
  • Relapse prevention strategies tailored to your mental health condition
  • Support for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) if appropriate
  • Help building a sober support network while managing emotional symptoms

This dual approach is essential for sustainable recovery, especially when both issues feed into one another.

Why Choose Lion Heart Behavioral Health for IOP in Massachusetts?

When you choose IOP at Lion Heart, you’re choosing a team that prioritizes dignity, safety, and progress. Our program is known for:

  • Trauma-informed, compassionate clinicians
  • Personalized care plans and flexible scheduling
  • A full spectrum of care (PHP, IOP, Outpatient)
  • Licensed Behavioral Health Treatment Center Massachusetts
  • Evidence-based practices for anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction
  • Strong outcomes for dual diagnosis and relapse prevention

We don’t just focus on short-term treatment—we work with you to build a long-term recovery foundation.

Conclusion

IOP might be your next step if you’re ready for real healing but still need support navigating life’s daily challenges. It’s ideal for those who need more than talk therapy, but less than inpatient care.

At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we’ll guide you through every phase of your recovery, whether you’re stepping down from residential care or stepping up for stronger support. Our IOP is here to help you build skills, confidence, and hope.

Call 774-228-4112 today to schedule a confidential assessment and explore whether IOP is right for you. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do this without help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?

An IOP is a structured mental health and addiction treatment program offering therapy 3–5 days per week, without requiring inpatient hospitalization.

How is IOP different from PHP or inpatient care?

IOP provides intensive care like PHP but with fewer hours per week. Unlike inpatient treatment, clients live at home and maintain their daily routines.

Who should consider an IOP?

IOP is ideal for individuals managing depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use who need more support than weekly therapy but don’t require 24/7 care.

Can IOP help with dual diagnosis?

Yes. Lion Heart’s IOP is designed for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, offering integrated therapy and psychiatric care.

How long does IOP last?

Most IOP programs last 6–12 weeks, depending on individual needs. Treatment is typically scheduled 3–5 days per week, 3–4 hours per session.

Is IOP covered by insurance?

Yes. Most insurance providers cover IOP under behavioral health services. Call 774-228-4112 for a free benefits check and admission consultation.

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*The stories shared in this blog are meant to illustrate personal experiences and offer hope. Unless otherwise stated, any first-person narratives are fictional or blended accounts of others’ personal experiences. Everyone’s journey is unique, and this post does not replace medical advice or guarantee outcomes. Please speak with a licensed provider for help.

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.