Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Kate Smith
A Safe, Supportive Place to Begin Your Recovery
Residential treatment gives you the space, structure, and 24/7 support you need to stabilize and begin healing—away from triggers, stress, and the pressure to “hold it all together.” At Greater Boston Addiction Centers in Needham, MA, we provide a calm, home-like environment where you can reset your body, mind, and routine with a team who understands addiction, mental health, and the recovery process.
Whether you’re stepping down from detox or looking for a deeper level of care after relapse, residential treatment helps you regain your footing, rebuild confidence, and start again with guidance every step of the way.
Looking for 24/7 Support in a Safe, Healing Space?
Residential treatment offers the highest level of care—compassionate, structured, and always available. Let’s find out if this is your next step.
Why Choose Residential Treatment?
Residential treatment is often the best choice when someone needs:
24/7 medical and emotional support
Distance from unsafe or triggering environments
More structure than outpatient care can provide
Help managing withdrawal symptoms or cravings
Treatment for both addiction and mental health
A full-time commitment focused entirely on recovery
Stabilization before stepping into PHP/IOP
This level of care gives you the stability and supervision needed to learn new skills, build healthier routines, and begin recovery with the structure that early sobriety requires.
What to Expect in Our Residential Treatment Program
We know stepping into residential treatment can feel overwhelming. Here’s what your day-to-day experience actually looks like.
A Typical Day in Residential Treatment
Every day follows a structured schedule that supports stability and healing:
- Morning check-ins: vitals, medication (if prescribed), and daily goal-setting
- Group therapy: addiction education, coping skills, relapse prevention, emotional regulation
- Weekly individual therapy: one-on-one time to work through personal challenges
- Afternoon programming: guided groups, psychoeducation, and dual diagnosis support
- Meals + structured downtime: time to rest, reflect, and recharge
- Holistic activities: mindfulness, movement, wellness practices, recreational options
- Evening groups: reflection, connection, and preparing for the next day
This structure builds the consistency your brain and body need in early recovery.
Your Personalized Treatment Plan
Your care plan is tailored to your needs and updated regularly as you progress.
It includes:
- A full intake evaluation
- Individualized treatment goals
- Evidence-based therapies (CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care)
- Dual diagnosis treatment when needed
- Regular clinical reviews to adjust your plan over time
Your treatment evolves as your needs evolve—not the other way around.
A Safe, Supportive Space to Heal
Our residential setting includes:
- Comfortable shared or private rooms (depending on availability)
- A calm, home-like environment free from drugs and alcohol
- Respectful community guidelines
- 24/7 monitoring for safety and emotional support
- Staff who understand the challenges of early sobriety
You are never alone here.
Your Residential Care Team
Behind every stable day in treatment is a coordinated team working together on your care.
Your team may include:
- Addiction-trained physicians or nurse practitioners
- Registered nurses
- Licensed mental health clinicians
- Case managers
- Behavioral health technicians
- Dual diagnosis specialists
Key benefits:
- Trauma-informed, evidence-based care
- Team communication about your progress
- Regular plan reviews
- Support that continues into PHP → IOP → OP
You’ll always know who is supporting you—and how.
How We Involve Family and Loved Ones
Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. When it’s safe and appropriate, involving loved ones can strengthen long-term outcomes.
Family involvement may include:
- Family therapy sessions
- Education on addiction, communication, and boundaries
- Guidance on how to support recovery at home
- High-level communication expectations (kept flexible based on policy)
We also help you plan for supportive relationships after residential treatment through step-down levels of care and aftercare planning.
Who We Treat in Our Inpatient Program
Our residential program supports adults who:
- Have moderate to severe substance use disorders
- Recently completed detox and need continued stabilization
- Experience repeated relapse or loss of control
- Live in stressful or unsafe home environments
- Need 24/7 support while managing cravings
- Have co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder
- Benefit from routine, accountability, and a recovery-focused community
If you’re unsure whether residential treatment is the right fit, our admissions team can help you decide.
Addiction Therapies Offered In GBAC’s Residential Facility
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to addiction.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and building healthy coping mechanisms.
- Trauma-informed care: Addresses past traumas that may have contributed to substance use, creating a safe space for healing.
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Treats co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, alongside addiction.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Uses medications like Suboxone or Vivitrol to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.
Throughout your time in our residential program, you’ll receive support from experienced mental health therapists and medical professionals. Contact us today to learn more.
Massachusetts Addiction Statistics
Miller, Jessica. “Addiction Recovery Statistics.” Addiction Help, 6 Mar. 2023, www.addictionhelp.com/recovery/statistics/.
Mann, Brian. “There Is Life after Addiction. Most People Recover.” NPR.org, 15 Jan. 2022, www.npr.org/2022/01/15/1071282194/addiction-substance-recovery-treatment.
National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics. “NCDAS: Substance Abuse and Addiction Statistics [2020].” National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 2020, www.drugabusestatistics.org/
“Alcohol Abuse Statistics [2023]: National + State Data.” NCDAS, drugabusestatistics.org/alcohol-abuse-statistics/#massachusetts.
Key Difference Between Residential Treatment Programs and Day Treatment Programs (Day Treatment Program)
Residential Treatment Program:
- Purpose: Provides a safe and supportive environment for people to focus on recovering from addiction.
- Duration: Usually lasts several weeks to a few months.
- Focus: Offers therapy and counseling, including individual and group sessions, to help prevent relapse and support long-term recovery.
- Role of MAT: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) can be used to help manage cravings and support recovery during therapy.
Day Treatment Program:
- Purpose: Offers intensive treatment during the day while allowing individuals to go home in the evenings, providing a mix of support and independence.
- Duration: Typically lasts several weeks, with daily treatment sessions.
- Focus: Includes similar therapy and counseling as residential programs but allows participants to return home each night.
- Role of MAT: MAT can also be part of Day Treatment Program to help manage cravings and support recovery while individuals continue their daily lives.
Addictions We Treat in Our Boston Residential Program
At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, our residential program provides a structured, supportive environment for individuals working to overcome various substance use disorders. We specialize in treating:
- Opioids: Including heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, and hydrocodone. Our residential program offers a safe, medically supervised setting for detox and comprehensive care for long-term recovery.
- Methamphetamine: A stimulant with severe impacts on physical and mental health. We provide therapies focused on safe detox and emotional recovery.
- Alcohol: Our program includes targeted therapy, counseling, and relapse prevention to help clients achieve and maintain sobriety.
- Cocaine: We address psychological cravings and compulsive behaviors with individualized therapies for a balanced recovery.
- Benzodiazepines: Commonly prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders. We ensure a safe, gradual reduction in use and ongoing support through withdrawal.
- Marijuana: We assist clients in developing healthier coping mechanisms and addressing underlying issues associated with marijuana dependence.
- Polysubstance Addiction: Our integrated approach treats dependencies on multiple substances with a focus on comprehensive healing and overdose prevention.
- Prescription Medication Addiction: Special care for individuals struggling with dependence on prescribed opioids, stimulants, and sedatives, ensuring they receive tailored therapy and support.
- Heroin: Our program includes Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and therapy to help individuals move past heroin addiction and build a stable foundation for recovery.
Our residential program at GBAC combines individualized therapy, medication management, and relapse prevention techniques, all designed to foster lasting recovery and empower clients with the skills needed for a healthier future.
How to Choose a Residential Treatment Program in Massachusetts
Not all programs are the same—here’s what to look for.
Licensing & accreditation:
- Make sure the facility is state-licensed and uses evidence-based practices.
Therapy options:
- Ask about CBT, DBT, trauma therapy, relapse prevention, and dual diagnosis services.
Co-occurring treatment:
- Confirm the program treats addiction and mental health at the same time.
Family involvement:
- Check how your support system can participate.
Aftercare planning:
- Look for programs that continue support through PHP, IOP, and outpatient treatment.
At GBAC, we meet all these standards—and we’ll help you compare options with honesty and transparency.
Finding Residential Treatment Facilities Nearby
We specialize in providing comprehensive care and tailored programs for individuals with addiction. Located in Needham, Massachusetts, Greater Boston Addiction Centers offers residential treatment programs that combine a range of services designed to support those managing addiction, including therapy and other evidence-based treatments. To find out more about how we can assist you or your loved one, please contact us directly at (877) 920-6583 or visit us at our location.
- Greater Boston Addiction Centers: 322 Reservoir Street Needham, MA 02494
Who Can Benefit from a Residential Treatment Program?
The residential treatment program at Greater Boston Addiction Centers (GBAC) is ideal for individuals who need a high level of structure and support to address their addiction. This program is particularly beneficial for those who have struggled with maintaining sobriety through outpatient care or who face significant triggers in their everyday environment. Residential treatment is also well-suited for people who need 24/7 medical and emotional support, including those with co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, PTSD, or anxiety.
In residential care, clients can fully focus on their recovery without the distractions and demands of daily life, making it a strong option for those seeking a safe and supportive environment to build a solid foundation for long-term sobriety.
Why Choose Residential Treatment at Greater Boston Addiction Centers?
A treatment approach grounded in compassion and science
We combine evidence-based therapies, trauma-informed care, and individualized plans to help you rebuild your life—not just your sobriety.
A full continuum of care
We support you through every step:
Residential → PHP → IOP → OP → Aftercare
You won’t have to start over with a new team.
Local and accessible
Located in Needham, we’re easily accessible from:
Boston, Cambridge, Newton, Brookline, Waltham, Framingham, and MetroWest communities.
More connection, more support
Our smaller program size allows for more one-on-one attention and deeper group connection. Many clients stay connected long after treatment ends.
Insurance & Costs
Is Residential Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Many clients use commercial insurance plans to cover most or all of the cost of care.
We offer:
- Free, confidential insurance verification
- Support understanding deductibles and co-pays
- Clear explanations of any out-of-pocket costs before treatment starts
We’ll help you use your benefits with zero guesswork.
What Are the Costs of Residential Treatment?
Cost varies depending on:
- Length of stay
- Level of clinical/medical support
- Insurance coverage
We work hard to make treatment as accessible as possible. Verify Insurance now.
How Does the Admission Process for Residential Treatment Work?
At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, we strive to make the admission process for residential treatment straightforward and supportive. It starts with an initial consultation, where our experienced team assesses your mental health needs, reviews your symptoms, and discusses your treatment history. This evaluation helps us identify the most suitable level of care and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. After the assessment, our admissions team will assist with paperwork, coordinate with your insurance provider, and address any questions to ensure a smooth transition into treatment.
FAQs About Our Residential Treatment Facility in Boston, Massachusetts
A residential treatment specialist is a trained professional who supports clients during their stay in a structured, live-in treatment program. Their role often includes:
- Monitoring safety and wellbeing 24/7
- Leading or assisting in group therapy sessions
- Helping with daily routines like meals, medication management, and activities
- Providing emotional support during difficult moments, such as cravings or homesickness
- Coordinating with therapists and medical providers to ensure a consistent treatment plan
At Greater Boston Addiction Centers in Needham, MA, residential specialists play an important role in helping clients adjust to a new environment, build healthy habits, and feel supported throughout recovery.
Yes. Many people from Wellesley, MA, and other nearby towns choose residential treatment programs in the Greater Boston area because they offer more comprehensive services than smaller local facilities. GBAC in Needham is less than 15 minutes from Wellesley, making it a convenient option for those who want world-class treatment close to home.
Residential treatment is just one step on the recovery journey. After completing a program, most people transition into lower levels of care, such as:
- Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for continued therapy while regaining independence
- Outpatient therapy for ongoing counseling and relapse prevention
- Sober living homes for those who benefit from structured housing before returning home
- Aftercare planning that includes relapse prevention strategies, alumni groups, and support networks in the Greater Boston area
At GBAC, clients don’t just “graduate” and go home — they receive a personalized aftercare plan and are connected with resources across Massachusetts to help them maintain long-term recovery.
The terms can overlap, but there are some key differences:
- Rehab is a broad term that can describe any structured addiction treatment program, including detox, outpatient therapy, or residential care.
- Residential treatment specifically means living on-site at a treatment center, with 24-hour support, structure, and supervision.
In short: all residential programs are rehab, but not all rehab is residential.
For people in the Boston area struggling with severe addiction or repeated relapses, residential treatment at GBAC provides the safety and stability needed to begin recovery before stepping down into outpatient care.
Preparing for residential treatment can feel overwhelming, but a little planning makes the transition smoother:
- Take care of responsibilities — arrange work leave, child care, or pet care.
- Pack essentials — comfortable clothing, toiletries, prescribed medications (in original bottles), and approved reading material.
- Leave behind triggers — drugs, alcohol, or anything that could interfere with treatment are not permitted.
- Bring identification and insurance information — for intake and billing.
- Mentally prepare — remind yourself that this is an investment in your health and future.
Bring comfortable clothing, approved toiletries, medications in original bottles, your ID, and a few personal comfort items. Admissions will give you a detailed list.
Absolutely. We help clients from across the region and can assist with logistics.
Detoxing at home may seem convenient, but it can be unsafe and often unsuccessful. Withdrawal from substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines can cause seizures, hallucinations, or even life-threatening complications if not medically managed. At GBAC in Needham, our medically supervised detox provides:
- 24/7 monitoring from trained medical staff
- Medications to reduce cravings and ease symptoms
- A safer, more comfortable transition into recovery
This level of support helps clients complete detox successfully and move forward with treatment — something that’s much harder to achieve on your own.
Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance:
- Alcohol: sweating, anxiety, tremors, nausea, risk of seizures (DTs)
- Opioids/Heroin: insomnia, chills, diarrhea, muscle aches, intense cravings
- Benzodiazepines: panic, mood swings, sleep issues, seizures if unmanaged
- Stimulants: fatigue, depression, trouble concentrating
At GBAC, we tailor detox to the individual. Medical care helps reduce discomfort and prevents dangerous complications.
Yes. Many clients from Cambridge and Somerville choose our Needham facility because it provides a safe detox environment away from city triggers while still being close enough for loved ones to stay involved. Families appreciate that our location allows for both privacy and accessibility.
Detox typically lasts 3–7 days, though it depends on the substance, how long it was used, and the client’s overall health. Some individuals may need longer stabilization before moving into inpatient or outpatient care.
We recommend bringing:
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Alcohol-free toiletries
- Prescription medications in original bottles
- Reading material or a journal
- Insurance card and photo ID
Our admissions team provides a full packing checklist so you know exactly what to bring and what to leave at home.
They do. Residents from Quincy, Milton, and the South Shore often come to GBAC because smaller community programs may not offer the same level of medical support. Our Needham location, just off I-95, makes it easy for families from the South Shore to access care.
Without medical oversight, withdrawal can lead to serious complications like seizures, dehydration, or dangerous heart changes. With supervision, clients have access to medications that:
- Lessen anxiety and insomnia
- Reduce cravings
- Stabilize vital signs
This makes detox safer and more comfortable, which greatly improves the chances of staying in treatment.
Yes. Many clients from Framingham, Natick, and other MetroWest towns come to GBAC because we’re centrally located and known for compassionate, individualized detox care. Families value being close enough for support while still giving their loved one space to heal.
Heal Where You’re Fully Supported, Day and Night
You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s talk about how residential care can give you the stability you need to start fresh.
What Are the Costs of Residential Treatment?
The cost of residential treatment at Greater Boston Addiction Centers varies based on the services provided, including therapy, medication management, and specialized care. Factors such as the type of care and session frequency influence the cost. For detailed information, contact our admissions team. We work with insurance providers and offer financial assistance to help manage expenses and ensure you get the support you need. We suggest reviewing your insurance policy or calling us at (877) 920-6583. At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, our team is here to help verify your insurance coverage.
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