Brattleboro Retreat: Starting Now Addiction Treatment Services
The Brattleboro Retreat, a private not-for-profit mental health hospital established in 1834, offers comprehensive services for substance use and addictive disorders through its “Starting Now” program. This commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care is delivered on a safe, restorative campus in Brattleboro, Vermont. The treatment philosophy is deeply patient-centered, ensuring that care plans are tailored to the unique needs of each individual struggling with addiction. The Retreat’s experienced staff utilizes contemporary, proven methods to help patients achieve and maintain sobriety.
Levels of Care and Treatment Approaches
Starting Now provides a spectrum of care designed to support individuals at various stages of recovery, from intensive support to maintenance counseling. The program emphasizes both group and individual therapy, recognizing the value of both peer support and personalized intervention in overcoming addiction. A core component of the therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective, evidence-based modality used to address the underlying thoughts and behaviors contributing to substance use.
Program Options Include:
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Outpatient Counseling Services
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for mental health and co-occurring disorders, which may overlap with addiction treatment needs
- Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) / “Spoke” Services
The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Outpatient Counseling Services allow patients to receive structured care while remaining connected to their home environment, family, and work responsibilities. For those requiring a higher level of daily structure, the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is available, offering intensive group therapy sessions. Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) is provided as a supported option to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, integrating medical oversight with therapeutic intervention for a holistic recovery experience.
The Brattleboro Retreat is dedicated to providing high-quality treatment that focuses not just on stopping substance use, but on equipping patients with the necessary coping skills and emotional tools for long-term health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brattleboro Retreat a residential facility?
The Brattleboro Retreat offers a variety of programs, including inpatient, residential, and day programs for mental health. Their “Starting Now” addiction program primarily focuses on Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Outpatient services.
What is the treatment philosophy of the Starting Now program?
The treatment philosophy is patient-centered and evidence-based, utilizing approaches such as group therapy, individual therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to evaluate and treat substance use and addictive disorders.
Does the program offer medication management for addiction?
Yes, the Starting Now program includes Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) services, also known as “Spoke” services, to support recovery.




