I do believe in crate training - but too much is going to have the opposite affect that you're looking for
If you can keep him out of the crate at bedtime (some people have their puppies sleep with them, or just on their bed in their room with the door closed) that would free up some of that crate time.
What about a dog walker or doggy daycare? Even if it's just a couple times a week to break up some of the days for him?