Licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), to provide Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) services under 105 CMR 164.231.
Recovery from addiction and mental health challenges can feel like a lot to manage—especially when you’re balancing work, school, or family. Waterside Recovery’s Afternoon Treatment Program offers structured, intensive support without overnight stays, so you can build stability while staying connected to daily life.
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a structured level of care that provides more support than traditional weekly therapy—without requiring 24/7 residential treatment. Also known as afternoon treatment, IOP is designed for people who need consistent clinical care and accountability, while still returning home after sessions.
In simple terms: you get a higher level of therapy and support, multiple days per week, in an outpatient setting.
Afternoon treatment is often the right choice when you need more structure than outpatient therapy, but you don’t need (or no longer need) a full-day program.
It may be a good step:
Considering a different level of care?
If you’re maintaining progress and need fewer hours, explore Outpatient Treatment
Our afternoon program is flexible—but it’s still clinically structured. You’ll participate in a plan built around your needs, goals, and stage of recovery:
In Massachusetts, treatment programs are sometimes described using local, schedule-based terms—like Afternoon Treatment—to reflect when services take place. Many national resources and other states refer to this same level of care as an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOT), which generally aligns with ASAM Level 2.1. Different name, same idea: structured therapy multiple days per week for a few hours at a time, while you continue living at home and practicing recovery skills in real life.
You’ll attend sessions multiple times per week that may include:
These treatment sessions are designed with our clients in mind. The afternoon treatment program allows for flexibility throughout the week, accommodating other commitments like work, school, and family.
Because sessions are offered in the afternoon, many people can continue work, school, or family responsibilities while getting the support they need. You’ll have space to practice skills in real life, then bring challenges back to treatment for coaching and problem-solving.
Recovery isn’t a one-week project—it’s a process. Our team provides consistent guidance and encouragement as you work toward stability, confidence, and long-term change.
Exact schedules vary, but many clients attend:
Example (for illustration):
If you want this page to rank harder, add a real sample schedule block that matches your actual programming hours.
Afternoon IOP may be a strong fit if you:
Afternoon treatment is not always the best fit if you’re experiencing severe withdrawal risk, unstable housing, or a current crisis that requires a higher level of supervision. (We can help you identify the safest next step.)
Need more structure? If you need daily therapeutic support, your Day Treatment Program may be a better match. If you’re further along in recovery and need fewer hours, ask about Outpatient Treatment.
Clients in our program attend treatment several times a week for a few hours at a time. If you or a loved one needs more comprehensive care with daily treatment, our full Day Treatment Program is a good option. We also offer more flexible outpatient support for those maintaining their progress.
We offer progressive levels of support so you can get the right intensity at the right time.
Afternoon treatment/IOP can support individuals navigating:
Waterside Recovery provides evidence-based afternoon treatment in Plymouth, Massachusetts. To learn more or start admissions, call (833) 985-4234 or visit us in person:
Coverage varies by plan and provider, but many insurance policies include benefits for intensive outpatient treatment. Your benefits may depend on factors like medical necessity, network status, and whether prior authorization is required.
Fastest way to confirm: verify benefits with our team and we’ll explain what your plan typically covers, plus any expected copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. Please confirm insurance coverage with one of our admissions specialists at (833) 985-4234.
Many major insurers offer behavioral health benefits that can apply to IOP services (coverage varies by plan). Examples often include: Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Humana.
Most clients attend multiple days per week. Your schedule is based on clinical need and availability.
Sessions are typically a few hours at a time, depending on your track and treatment plan.
Afternoon scheduling is designed to help many people keep daily commitments while receiving intensive care.
Day Treatment is generally more intensive (often daily). Afternoon IOP provides structured care multiple times per week with more flexibility.
Many people step down into outpatient care and/or aftercare planning and alumni support.
Choosing treatment is a powerful decision—and you don’t have to make it alone. Call (866) 671-8620 to talk through program fit, schedule options, and insurance verification, or start online when you’re ready.
Licensed counselors are standing by and available any time, day or night. Don’t hesitate to call today.
Verify Insurance Benefits
Find out if your insurance provider could cover your treatment
Find out if your insurance provider could cover your treatment with us.
