If you’ve recently completed detox or residential treatment, your next step might involve a structured outpatient program. In Massachusetts, the two most common next steps are Day Treatment and IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program). Both let you live at home while continuing to receive focused clinical support—but they offer different levels of structure depending on where you are in recovery.
Think of it like this: Massachusetts Day treatment is more like a full-time schedule, while IOP gives you more room to balance work, school, or family. Neither is better across the board—it really depends on what you need right now.
This post breaks down what each one involves, how they compare, and how to figure out which might fit your situation best.
What Is Day Treatment in Massachusetts?
Day treatment, sometimes called PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)—is the stronger choice if you’re early in recovery, struggling with cravings, or need a full support system during the day. It gives you a solid routine without having to live in a facility. Day treatment gives you a high level of support without needing to stay overnight. It usually runs five to six hours a day, five days a week. You’ll spend your time in group therapy, one-on-one sessions, and educational classes that focus on building skills for staying sober and improving your mental health.
This setup works well if you’re dealing with serious substance use or a dual diagnosis like depression or anxiety. The structure gives you routine, accountability, and daily clinical care, which can be critical in early recovery or right after a detox or inpatient program.
Benefits of Day Treatment
- Stronger structure: Daily attendance helps you stick to a recovery-focused routine.
- Comprehensive support: You work with therapists, case managers, and peers every day.
- Ideal for complex cases: It’s a solid choice if you’re managing both addiction and mental health challenges.
- Step-down option: Many people use Day treatment as a bridge between inpatient care and returning home.
What Is IOP?
IOP stands for Intensive Outpatient Program. At East Point Recovery Centers in Beverly, MA, this level of care is offered through our Half-day treatment program. It provides the same structured, evidence-based support you’d expect from an IOP—without requiring overnight stays.
Half-day treatment is designed for people who need more than once-a-week therapy but don’t require full-time care. It’s a strong fit for those balancing work, school, or family responsibilities while actively working on recovery.
The program includes individual counseling, group therapy, and ongoing support for co-occurring mental health needs. Clients return home after each session, making it possible to build consistency and momentum without stepping away from daily life.
Benefits of IOP
- Flexibility: You can get treatment while continuing with work, school, or family responsibilities.
- Consistent support: Regular sessions with therapists and peer groups help you stay grounded and accountable.
- Smooth transition: IOP is a common step after Day treatment or residential care, helping you maintain progress without losing structure.
- Real-world application: Since you’re living at home and staying active in your daily routine, you can immediately apply what you’re learning in treatment.
Is Day Treatment or IOP Better for You?
Both options help people recover from addiction—but which one makes sense for you depends on how much structure you need and how stable your daily life is right now.
Day treatment is the more fitting choice if you’re early in recovery, struggling with cravings, or need a full support system during the day. It gives you a solid routine without having to live in a facility.
IOP works better when you’ve already built some momentum or if you need more flexibility to keep your job, take care of your family, or manage other responsibilities. It still offers accountability and professional support—just on a part-time basis.
Neither option is “one size fits all.” The goal is to match the level of care to your current situation so you’re supported without being overwhelmed.
What About Evening Treatment?
East Point Recovery Centers also offers Evening treatment for individuals who need support outside of standard daytime hours.
This option follows the same clinical structure as our Half-day treatment program, including group therapy, individual counseling, and recovery-focused education—all delivered in person. It’s designed for working adults, parents, and anyone managing daytime obligations who still wants consistent, high-quality care.
Evening treatment makes it possible to start or continue recovery without stepping away from your job, family, or daily responsibilities.
Online Addiction Treatment
We also offer Online treatment, also known as Virtual treatment, for people who need maximum flexibility but don’t want to lose momentum in their recovery. We designed this program specifically for individuals who returned to full-time work quickly after detox or residential care. It’s for people who have the drive to keep building on the progress they’ve already made—but simply can’t make it into a physical location a few times a week.
Virtual sessions include group therapy, individual counseling, and case management, all delivered through a secure online platform. It’s structured, accountable, and built around real-world schedules, so you can stay connected to your recovery while showing up for your life.
Ready to Talk It Through?
Whether you’re just starting your recovery or returning after time away, East Point Recovery Centers can help you figure out the next right step. Reach a member of our Admissions team today at 800-270-2302 to learn more about our Day, Half-day, Evening, or Online addiction treatment programs and how we tailor them to your life—not the other way around.