Founded in 1969, Spectrum Health Systems has become New England’s leading provider of substance use disorder treatment, helping thousands of individuals overcome addiction to lead satisfying and productive lives. Today, Spectrum offers a continuum of CARF accredited addiction and mental health treatment services throughout Massachusetts, serving more than 6,000 individuals each day. Spectrum’s full range of services offers individuals with mental health and substance use disorders the opportunity to transition to less intensive treatment modalities as their recovery progresses or obtain a higher level of treatment should they require it.
Spectrum’s continuum of services includes inpatient detoxification, clinical stabilization, residential treatment, outpatient counseling, medication for substance use disorders, mobile opioid use disorder treatment, and peer recovery support. In addition, we operate residential programs for adolescents and young adults committed to the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services. We also contract with state and county correctional authorities to provide specialized programming for justice-involved individuals.
Education is the foundation of all Spectrum programs. Initially, motivational interviewing and enhancement techniques are used to engage clients in treatment and promote their active participation. Individual and group sessions provide education about substance use disorders, treatment options, overdose prevention, and recovery skills. Spectrum utilizes evidence-based curricula to teach clients about urges and cravings, internal and external triggers, coping skills, anger management techniques, interpersonal relations, parenting skills, relapse prevention, and more. Continuing care planning prepares clients for the next step in their recovery.
“Recovery helps you love yourself again. It’s about second chances, an opportunity to re-write the future and lead a happy life. I have dreams now. I want to renew relationships and get my loved ones back.”
“I remember thinking that I could handle it…that everything was okay. My life was controlled by drugs. One day, I hit rock bottom. I felt utterly hopeless and I knew I had to make a change.”
“The staff at Spectrum taught me ways to cope with everyday issues. I’m beginning to feel powerful, like I’m in control. I realize that I don’t know all the answers and that it’s okay to ask for help.”
“I’ve grown a lot since coming to Spectrum. I’m learning how to cope with everyday issues. I also take responsibility for my actions, which is definitely something new for me.”
“I entered Spectrum’s detox at the lowest point in my life. While I was there, I took a tour of the residential program. I decided to try it because I did not want to go back to my old way of life. Now I’m in recovery, working and making plans for my future – something I never dreamed possible.”
“When I was drinking, I thought I was only hurting myself. But when you’re in recovery, you realize how your actions hurt the people you love the most – your family and friends.”
