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.
Both a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) provide structured, evidence-based treatment for addiction and mental health conditions while allowing you to live at home. The biggest difference is the level of support each program provides. A PHP typically involves 20–30 hours of treatment per week with greater clinical structure, while an IOP generally includes 9–15 hours per week and offers more flexibility for work, school, and family responsibilities.
Both programs can be highly effective; the right choice depends on your symptoms, treatment goals, and the amount of support you need. Understanding how PHP and IOP compare can help you have a more informed conversation with a treatment professional and identify the level of care that is most appropriate for your situation.
The table below highlights some of the most important differences between a partial hospitalization program and an intensive outpatient program. Individual treatment plans vary, but this comparison provides a helpful starting point.
Feature | PHP (Day Treatment) | IOP (Night Treatment) |
Hours/week | 20–30 | 9–15 |
Days/week | 5 | 3–5 |
Intensity | Highest outpatient level | Step-down level |
Supervision | Daily clinical support | Regular clinical support |
Lives at home | Yes | Yes |
Best for | Greater structure and stabilization | More independence and flexibility |
Typical duration | 2–6 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is the highest level of outpatient care for individuals who need intensive clinical support but do not require 24-hour inpatient treatment. In Massachusetts, this level of care is licensed as Day Treatment, providing a structured schedule of therapy and support while allowing participants to return home or to a sober living environment each evening.
A PHP is often recommended for individuals whose symptoms are interfering with daily life, those transitioning from inpatient or residential treatment, or anyone who needs more support than traditional outpatient therapy can provide. Treatment typically includes individual therapy, group therapy, evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, psychoeducation, medication management when clinically appropriate, and relapse prevention planning.
Most clients attend programming five days per week for approximately 20–30 hours, creating a consistent therapeutic routine while allowing them to begin applying new skills outside of treatment. This balance of structure and independence helps many people build stability before stepping down to a lower level of care.
If you’d like to learn more about what to expect, our partial hospitalization program provides a detailed overview of day treatment, including admissions, daily schedules, and frequently asked questions.
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides structured treatment for individuals who need ongoing clinical support while maintaining greater flexibility than a partial hospitalization program. In Massachusetts, this level of care is often referred to as Night Treatment, allowing participants to receive comprehensive treatment while continuing to live at home and, in many cases, maintain work, school, or family responsibilities.
An IOP is often appropriate for individuals who are stepping down from a higher level of care, such as PHP, or those who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy can provide. Treatment typically includes individual therapy, group therapy, evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, relapse prevention planning, medication management when clinically appropriate, and continued support for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Most clients attend programming three to five days per week for approximately 9–15 hours, providing a balance of accountability and independence. This flexible schedule allows many individuals to continue building recovery skills while gradually returning to their everyday routines.
If you’d like to learn more about what to expect, our intensive outpatient program page provides a detailed overview of night treatment, including admissions, schedules, and frequently asked questions.
Although the comparison table provides a quick overview, choosing between PHP and IOP involves more than comparing hours and schedules. The right level of care depends on your current symptoms, daily responsibilities, treatment goals, and the amount of clinical support you need to make meaningful progress.
PHP offers the highest level of outpatient care, making it appropriate for individuals who need greater structure, more frequent therapeutic support, or additional clinical oversight. Because clients attend treatment for approximately 20–30 hours each week, PHP can provide the consistency needed to stabilize symptoms and establish a strong foundation for recovery.
IOP provides many of the same evidence-based therapies while allowing for greater flexibility. With a schedule of approximately 9–15 hours per week, many individuals are able to continue working, attending school, or caring for family while remaining actively engaged in treatment. This level of care is often a natural next step after PHP, though some people begin treatment in IOP based on their clinical needs.
Insurance often covers both PHP and IOP when they are determined to be medically necessary. During the admissions process, your treatment team will complete an assessment and help verify your insurance benefits to recommend the level of care that best matches your situation.
Yes. A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a more intensive level of outpatient care than an intensive outpatient program (IOP). PHP typically involves approximately 20–30 hours of treatment each week, while IOP generally includes 9–15 hours. Because of this higher level of structure and clinical support, PHP is often recommended for individuals experiencing more significant symptoms or those transitioning from inpatient or residential treatment.
In general, PHP may be a better fit for individuals who:
IOP may be appropriate for individuals who:
The right level of care depends on your unique circumstances. A comprehensive assessment can help determine which program is most appropriate based on your symptoms, goals, and support needs.
Not always—but it is a common next step.
Many individuals begin treatment in PHP to build stability before transitioning to IOP as they make progress. Stepping down to a less intensive level of care allows clients to continue receiving therapy, relapse prevention support, and clinical guidance while gradually returning to everyday responsibilities.
Some people begin treatment in IOP without ever participating in PHP, while others may move directly from PHP to traditional outpatient therapy. Every treatment plan is individualized and based on clinical recommendations rather than a fixed sequence.
If you’re wondering whether you’re ready to move from one level of care to another, our guide to signs you’re ready to step down from PHP to IOP explains some of the factors treatment providers consider when making that recommendation.
One of the most important things to understand is that PHP and IOP are not competing options—they are often part of the same treatment journey. As individuals make progress, they may transition from a higher level of care to one that offers greater independence while maintaining the support needed for continued recovery.
A typical progression may look like:
Not everyone follows this exact path. Some individuals begin treatment in IOP, while others may transition directly from PHP to traditional outpatient care. The appropriate level of care depends on each person’s symptoms, goals, and clinical progress.
This step-down approach allows treatment to evolve as your needs change, helping you build confidence and independence while remaining connected to professional support. If you’d like to learn more about the final stage of this continuum, our outpatient program page explains how ongoing therapy and recovery support can help maintain long-term progress.
Choosing between PHP and IOP is not something most people need to figure out on their own. The right level of care depends on your symptoms, daily responsibilities, support system, and overall treatment needs. A clinical assessment is the best way to determine which program is most appropriate, but asking yourself a few questions can help you understand what level of support you may need.
Ultimately, the decision shouldn’t be based on guesswork. A professional assessment considers your symptoms, medical history, treatment goals, and support system to recommend the level of care that gives you the best opportunity for long-term success.
IOP may be a better fit if you’re feeling more stable but still need consistent therapeutic support while balancing work, school, family, or other responsibilities.
Ultimately, the decision shouldn’t be based on guesswork. A professional assessment considers your symptoms, medical history, treatment goals, and support system to recommend the level of care that gives you the best opportunity for long-term success.
If you’re unsure where to start, our team can provide a confidential assessment and help you understand your options. You can also verify your insurance online before beginning the admissions process.
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) provides a higher level of structure and clinical support, typically involving about 20–30 hours of treatment per week. An intensive outpatient program (IOP) generally includes about 9–15 hours per week and offers more flexibility for work, school, and family responsibilities.
It may be possible to continue working while attending IOP because treatment is often scheduled around daytime responsibilities. PHP requires a larger weekly time commitment and may make full-time work difficult, although some people can maintain part-time or flexible employment.
Many insurance plans cover PHP and IOP when treatment is considered medically necessary. Coverage, deductibles, copays, and authorization requirements vary by plan. Lion Heart’s admissions team can help you verify your insurance and understand your benefits before treatment begins.
PHP often lasts approximately two to six weeks, while IOP may continue for about six to 12 weeks. The actual length of treatment depends on your symptoms, progress, treatment goals, and clinical recommendations.
Yes. Many people begin in PHP and step down to IOP as they gain stability and independence. Someone in IOP may also step up to PHP if symptoms worsen or more structure becomes necessary. Changes in level of care are based on ongoing clinical assessment.
If IOP no longer provides enough support, the treatment team may recommend stepping up to PHP or another higher level of care. The goal is to match treatment intensity to your current needs while maintaining safety and continuity of care.
At Lion Heart Behavioral Health, we understand that choosing the right level of care isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re considering a partial hospitalization program or an intensive outpatient program, our team takes the time to understand your needs and recommend the level of support that is most appropriate for your situation.
Our programs in Raynham serve individuals throughout Bristol County and the surrounding communities, providing personalized, evidence-based care that can adapt as your recovery progresses. If your needs change over time, your treatment plan can change with you, helping ensure you continue receiving the right level of support at every stage of recovery.
If you’re ready to explore your options, you can learn more about our partial hospitalization program or intensive outpatient program, verify your insurance, or call our admissions team to discuss the next step.
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.
