Structured outpatient addiction programs or after-work rehab programs offer a flexible and practical approach to substance use disorder treatment designed for those who cannot commit to full-time residential rehab.
These options allow patients to receive intensive care for 6 to 12 hours per week while continuing to live at home and maintain family responsibilities. These integrate therapy sessions and group treatment into evenings or as part of the day.
Research shows that relapse rates following detox and inpatient addiction treatment can range from 40% to 60% [1]. Day treatment programs can greatly reduce this, providing ongoing support and skill-building while balancing the stress or triggers of returning to daily life.
What Is After-Work Rehab?
After-work rehabs are flexible, outpatient treatment programs designed for individuals with mild to moderate substance use disorders who cannot commit to an inpatient residential rehab. They are helpful for those who cannot leave work full-time, or have other responsibilities such as kids or a sick family member that prevent them from living at a rehab facility.
These are more commonly referred to as day rehabs, day treatment programs (partial hospitalization), and half-day treatment programs (intensive outpatient treatment). They often consist of anywhere from 6 to 12 hours of weekly treatment, and allow individuals to continue living at home and attending work while receiving more intensive care than standard outpatient therapy (typically 1 to 2 hours per week).
Can I Be Fired For Going To Rehab?
No, you cannot be fired for going to rehab, and under certain laws, such as the ADA, it is illegal for your employer to discriminate against you, fire you, or withhold promotion simply based on having a substance use or co-occurring mental health disorder.
However, you can be fired for misusing drugs or alcohol, especially if it prevents the employee from completing job requirements. Although many employers support their employees in connection with treatment, they also provide ongoing drug screenings.
There are several laws in place that support employees seeking addiction treatment. These include [2][3]:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA protects individuals with disabilities, including those with substance use disorders, from discrimination in the workplace.
The Family And Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
FMLA protects anyone who has worked for more than a year with a company, organization, or agency in the public or private sector that has more than 50 employees. It states that a person who requests leave under the FMLA must be allowed to seek treatment for a substance use disorder or illness related to it, or care for a family member with addiction.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
HIPAA (1996) safeguards the confidentiality of your health information, including rehab and treatment records.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Passed in 2010, the ACA expanded access to behavioral health treatments by requiring most insurance plans to cover addiction and mental health services.
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA)
Enacted in 2008, MHPAEA requires that insurance coverage for mental health and substance use disorders be no more restrictive than coverage for other medical conditions.
How To Talk To Your Employer About Rehab
Talking to your employer about your drug and alcohol use or going to rehab can feel embarrassing, shameful, and scary (if you don’t know your rights). Remind yourself that you’re struggling with a brain disease that requires medical treatment just as would a physical health condition.
Some helpful tips for talking to your employer about rehab include:
- Be open, honest, and take accountability.
- Express gratitude and genuine appreciation for your job.
- Express how getting treatment can improve your job performance.
- Explain what an after-work rehab/intensive outpatient program is. Let your employer know it may not impact your work schedule, although they may be willing to provide increased flexibility.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a benefit designed to help employees address personal problems that might negatively affect their job performance, health, and well-being. EAPs typically offer confidential counseling, referrals, and support services for issues such as substance abuse, mental health, stress, family problems, grief, and financial or legal troubles.
Typically, employers contract with an EAP provider who offers these services to employees at no direct cost. EAP providers typically provide an assessment, offer short-term counseling, or can provide referrals to specialists or inpatient treatment. Payment is usually covered by the employee’s health insurance benefits. Some employers offer additional financial support or can negotiate costs through the EAP [4].
Flexible Addiction Treatment for Working Adults
At Trinity Wellness Group, our programs are designed to adapt around your needs, goals, and schedule. Our outpatient programs can help you begin your journey toward recovery or support you with relapse prevention following inpatient care.
Clinically Supported Therapies
Our treatment program incorporates evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
- CBT focuses on identifying and shifting negative thought patterns to improve behavior and emotional regulation.
- DBT enhances skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, which are essential for managing intense emotions and impulsive behaviors.
- EMDR is a trauma-focused therapy aimed at helping individuals process and heal from traumatic memories.
- Group therapy is also integral, providing peer support, skill implementation, and shared experiences to reinforce individual progress.
DBT Workshops
Our program is guided by DBT principles with weekly modules that focus on essential skills such as emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. These teach practical techniques to enhance awareness and acceptance of emotions, helping participants respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
The training supports managing overwhelming feelings and building resilience through structured group sessions, individual coaching, and homework assignments. This comprehensive DBT approach is designed to foster lasting behavioral change and emotional stability.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
We prescribe medications specifically aimed at reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid and alcohol use disorders. While we do not provide methadone treatment on-site, we welcome individuals currently stabilized on methadone and maintain collaborative care arrangements with their providers to ensure integrated clinical management.
Our MAT services help support recovery by combining medication with behavioral therapies for a holistic approach.
Flexible Morning and Evening Schedules
Our treatment options include both half-day and full-day programs with flexible morning or evening schedules.
This allows you to remain engaged in work or family responsibilities, such as dropping children off at school before attending a morning half-day session. The flexibility helps accommodate personal commitments while receiving effective care.
Trauma-Sensitive Team and Environment
Principles of trauma-informed care are foundational to our treatment approach and environment. Our team is trained to cultivate a setting of trust, safety, and transparency, recognizing the pervasive impact of trauma on behavioral health.
Every aspect of care is designed to promote empowerment, choice, and collaboration, ensuring patients feel respected and supported throughout their recovery journey.
Addiction Day Treatment Programs in Massachusetts at Trinity Wellness Group
Recovery is not just about stopping substance use—it’s about creating a meaningful, sober life filled with purpose and strength. At Trinity Wellness Group, you’re never alone on your journey. Our multidisciplinary experts work closely with you and your loved ones to ensure continuous, tailored care.
Guided by the principles of integrity and authenticity, we are committed to delivering evidence-based treatments alongside the transformative power of lived experience. We support busy students and working adults in the Boston, MA metro area with flexible, day treatment programs that are tailored to your unique recovery goals and scheduling needs.
Contact us today to find support and begin treatment.
Sources
[1] Mao, S. et al. 2024. A probabilistic model of relapse in drug addiction. Science Direct.
[2] ADA. Gov. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with disabilities from discrimination.
[3] US Department of Labor. Wage and Hour Division. Fact Sheet #28: The Family and Medical Leave Act.
[4] US Office of Personnel Management. Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
