The Opioid Treatment Services Program provides a range of services for opioid dependent individuals, including medically monitored methadone treatment, outpatient counseling, and acupuncture for detoxification and relapse prevention. The mission of the Opioid Treatment Services Program is to provide a continuum of care to opioid addicted individuals creatively, efficiently, and in a manner that promotes dignity and respect.
All referrals are received through the Bureau’s Resource and Referral Center, formerly known as ‘Central Intake/ Room 5’.
Methadone Treatment
Methadone is a medication taken daily to treat opioid withdrawal and craving by blocking the effects of opioid use and abuse. The Bureau's Methadone Treatment Service combines medically monitored and pharmacological interventions with outpatient substance abuse counseling, education, and vocational services.
We offer specialized methadone services to vulnerable populations in collaboration with Boston Medical Center:
- Services to pregnant women in collaboration with BMC’s Women’s Center
- Services to HIV-infected individuals through BMC’s Infectious Disease Clinic
- Services to BMC’s inpatient individuals with opioid dependence through the Transitional Opioid Program (TOP)
- Methadone treatment integrated into primary health care through BMC’s Office-Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT) Program
Outpatient Counseling
All patients receiving methadone treatment are required to enroll in outpatient counseling. Individual and group treatment services are available and tailored to meet the needs of each client. Substance abuse clinicians provide the primary services and patients are referred to a staff psychiatrist if need is determined.
Acupuncture for Detoxification and Relapse Prevention
The Acupuncture Service provides safe and effective outpatient treatment for people at all stages of recovery. Acupuncture can help manage cravings and ease discomfort in the early stages of recovery, and serve as an effective aid for relapse prevention for those in long-term recovery.
Acupuncture will help clients feel calm, relaxed, and eventually more energized. Clients will notice a reduction in the following symptoms: cravings, anxiety, bone pain, irritability, depression, insomnia, sweats, headaches, and lack of concentration.
Acupuncture clients must also be enrolled in outpatient counseling. If you are enrolled in outpatient counseling outside of the BPHC system of care, we will make arrangements to follow-up with your counselor and receive updates.
Population Served
The program serves all adult residents of Boston with opioid dependency; however, many of the Program's clients are uninsured, underinsured, homeless, or suffering from co-occurring medical or psychiatric illness. Opioid Treatment Services has proven success in providing culturally sensitive services to these populations who have been historically difficult to engage in treatment.
Eligibility Requirements:
- At least 18 years of age
- Resident of Boston or surrounding neighborhoods
- Have at least a one (1) year documented history of physical dependence of an opiate drug and/or show signs of current use
- Sign a Release of Information form for all health care professionals, including mental health professionals
Want to Make a Referral or In Need of Our Services?
Please call 617-534-5554 to make a referral or to receive additional information through the Bureau’s Resource and Referral Center. The program is located at 774 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118. Individuals seeking services need to walk in for an appointment; appointments are not scheduled over the phone. Walk in office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM.