The Institute for Health and Recovery (IHR) provides counseling and recovery services for individuals and families through its office in Lowell, Massachusetts. Founded in 1990 and accredited by CARF, this behavioral health organization offers trauma-informed care that treats substance use as part of a person’s larger life story rather than as an isolated problem. Its clinicians meet with clients in the office and throughout the community, helping to lower the barriers that can keep people from staying engaged in care.
Trauma-Informed Care for the Whole Family
The Lowell office provides counseling that keeps the family at the center and is guided by an understanding of how trauma shapes recovery. IHR’s clinicians work with clients on their substance use while also attending to related trauma and co-occurring needs, using an approach that is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in evidence. Because sessions can take place at home or in familiar community settings as well as at the office, people are able to receive care in whatever environment allows them to engage most fully.
Serving Priority Populations in the Community
A significant part of IHR’s mission involves supporting those who face layered and often difficult circumstances, among them families struggling with housing, families engaged with the child welfare system, pregnant and parenting women, and at-risk youth. Alongside counseling, the organization offers peer support, including help linking clients to recovery meetings such as AA and NA, and works with families to improve communication and rebuild trust. Its acceptance of MassHealth and Medicare, together with public funding, helps ensure that cost is not a barrier to receiving support.
