The Road to Recovery is Here

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation that provides a full range of licensed outpatient substance abuse and mental health prevention, education, and treatment services to assist adults in becoming productive members of society.​

The Road to Recovery is Here

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation that provides a full range of licensed outpatient substance abuse and mental health prevention, education, and treatment services to assist adults in becoming productive members of society.
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Who We Are.​

In Connecticut, our communities are grappling with the challenge of addressing issues related to substance abuse, mental health, and recovery. Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. is committed to providing evidence-based treatment services to meet these critical needs.

Our dedicated team of licensed professionals, including physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, and counselors, specializes in substance abuse treatment and mental health support, guiding individuals on their path to recovery. We also offer bilingual staff to better serve the cultural needs of our Hispanic/Latino clients.

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. holds national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and is licensed by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health. We receive funding from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, enabling us to make a positive impact on the lives of those seeking recovery.

Our Services

Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence​

What is Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorders?

There are three FDA approved medications that are used to treat opioid use disorders, methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. The use of these medications in combination with comprehensive counseling, case management, and recovery supports have been proven to be the most effective treatment for most people struggling with opioid use. Comprehensive MAT has been clinically proven to be safe and effective. Research demonstrates that MAT decreases drug use, decreases overdose, decreased rates of infection such as HIV and hepatitis C, improve birth outcomes for pregnant women with opioid use disorders, improve social functioning and relationships, increase employment, and increase the overall quality of life.

These medications decrease drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and can block the euphoric effects of other opioids. For many, MAT is an important part of their recovery. There is much misunderstanding and stigma regarding these medications. Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. is here to assist you with your recovery journey and would be happy to answer any questions you have.

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc.’s MAT programs are evidence based and includes a variety of medical, nursing, psychiatric, and counseling services. The programs are staffed with licensed and certified counselors, nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, and support staff.

Comprehensive confidential MAT services at Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. include:

  • Comprehensive psychosocial assessment and treatment planning
  • Initial and yearly medical assessment (physical examination and laboratory testing)
  • Daily medication
  • Identification and treatment of co-occurring disorders mental health concerns
  • Individualized therapeutic services including Individual, couples, group, and family counseling
  • HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing, education, counseling , and referral for care
  • Comprehensive care management for pregnant patients
  • Referral for additional services such as housing, employment, skill training, educational services, etc.

Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence

Our MAT programs are evidence based and includes a variety of medical, nursing, psychiatric, and counseling services. The programs are staffed with licensed and certified counselors, nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, and support staff.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program (IOP)

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. recognizes that for some people experiencing substance use and/or mental health problems there is a need for more comprehensive outpatient services than are historically offered by outpatient programs. In response to this need Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. offers this more intensive treatment. 

The Intensive Outpatient Programs meet in a group setting three times weekly for three hours each day. Licensed and certified clinical staff provide evidenced based treatment tools to assist the patient in reaching their recovery goals.  Intensive programs specific to substance use, mental health, and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders are available mornings, afternoon, and evenings Monday through Friday. Gender specific groups are also available.  Spanish speaking groups are also available. In addition to group treatment, the intensive program also provides individual counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management services as needed.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program (IOP)

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. recognizes that for some people experiencing substance use and/or mental health problems there is a need for more comprehensive outpatient services than are historically offered by outpatient programs. In response to this need Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. offers this more intensive treatment. 

Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health​

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc., understands the complex needs of people with mental health concerns. Our compassionate and professional staff will work with you to develop a care plan for recovery based on your individual needs. Our confidential programs are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health to treat individuals age eighteen (18) and over wishing to receive mental health evaluations, referrals, counseling, and pharmacotherapy.  Treatment services include psychosocial assessments, psychiatric evaluations, medication management services, individual and group counseling, and recovery support. 

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. licensed staff utilizes a variety of evidence based treatment tools to assist the patient in reaching their recovery goals. Our programs are individualized, patient-centered, recovery oriented, and integrated. They focus on the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the patient and foster growth and empowerment. We strive to promote respect and dignity through the efforts of a qualified, well-trained, and culturally competent treatment teams.     

Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc., understands the complex needs of people with mental health concerns. Our compassionate and professional staff will work with you to develop a care plan for recovery based on your individual needs. Our confidential programs are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health to treat individuals age eighteen (18) and over wishing to receive mental health evaluations, referrals, counseling, and pharmacotherapy.  Treatment services include psychosocial assessments, psychiatric evaluations, medication management services, individual and group counseling, and recovery support. 

Outpatient Treatment for Substance Misuse​

The outpatient substance use programs specialize in the treatment of all substance use problems including alcohol, cocaine, narcotics, cannabis, and prescription medications.  Our programs are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health to treat individuals age eighteen (18) or older and provide substance use evaluations, referrals, urine testing, and outpatient counseling.  Treatment is confidential and is provided by compassionate and professionally trained, licensed and certified counselors. These confidential treatment services are provided within a patient-centered and recovery oriented atmosphere. Patients are provided assistance with substance abuse problems as well as associated psychosocial concerns. Our evidence based recovery services include individual and group counseling and recovery support services. Our goal is to provide our patients with the recovery skills needed to assist them in living productive and fulfilled lives.  

Outpatient Treatment for Substance Misuse

The outpatient substance use programs specialize in the treatment of all substance use problems including alcohol, cocaine, narcotics, cannabis, and prescription medications.  Our programs are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health to treat individuals age eighteen (18) or older and provide substance use evaluations, referrals, urine testing, and outpatient counseling.  Treatment is confidential and is provided by compassionate and professionally trained, licensed and certified counselors. These confidential treatment services are provided within a patient-centered and recovery oriented atmosphere. 

Innovations in Treatment and Recovery​
The Bridge to Recovery (BTR) program is a peer mentoring based program that provides peer mentoring services for patients recovering from opioid addiction. The innovative peer mentoring program was developed and implemented at Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. by a unique collaboration between treatment provider and patient. The mission of the BTR program is to provide peer mentoring services for patients receiving medication assisted treatment for opioid use disorders who are struggling with their recovery, and may benefit from peer mentoring services. It is an innovative treatment initiative designed to assist the patient with their recovery and increase positive treatment outcomes. The initiative addresses the three main variables associated with poor treatment outcomes; low motivation for recovery, lack of a therapeutic relationship with program staff, and poor retention rates. The initiative recruits and trains patients who are in long term recovery with medication assisted treatment who desire to help others achieve their own recovery. A basic assumption of the initiative was that patients in long term recovery who are properly trained to provide peer mentoring services, would demonstrate a strong ability to form a positive therapeutic bond with the patient which would have a positive effect on patient retention. The “Bridge to Recovery” recognizes and builds upon the initial gains made by the patient by retaining the patient in treatment while providing Evidenced-Based practices such as Motivational Interviewing. The Bridge to Recovery Program received the U. S. Department of Health & Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Science and Service Award for demonstrated excellence and innovation in 2012.

Innovations in Treatment and Recovery

The Bridge to Recovery (BTR) program is a peer mentoring based program that provides peer mentoring services for patients recovering from opioid addiction.  The innovative peer mentoring program was developed and implemented at Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. by a unique collaboration between treatment provider and patient. The mission of the BTR program is to provide peer mentoring services for patients receiving medication assisted treatment for opioid use disorders who are struggling with their recovery, and may benefit from peer mentoring services. It is an innovative treatment initiative designed to assist the patient with their recovery and increase positive treatment outcomes.

MARS - Medication-Assisted Recovery Support​

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. (CCC) Norwalk program was chosen to participate in the SAMHSA funded pilot project “Beyond MARS”. The project goal is to replicate the success of the MARS peer support program.  MARS or “Medication Assisted Recovery Services” is a peer support program started by members of the National Association of Medication Assisted Recovery (NAMA-R) and patients at the Wellness Center MMTP in New York City. Beyond MARS uses a structured 20 hour curriculum to train patients in sustained recovery with medication assisted treatment to become “Peer Recovery Support Specialists”. These Peer Support Specialists operate a MARS recovery center in Norwalk providing information, peer support, recovery oriented activities, and peer advocacy services for patients receiving medication assisted treatment for opioid addiction. 

MARS - Medication-Assisted Recovery Support

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. (CCC) Norwalk program was chosen to participate in the SAMHSA funded pilot project “Beyond MARS”. The project goal is to replicate the success of the MARS peer support program.  MARS or “Medication Assisted Recovery Services” is a peer support program started by members of the National Association of Medication Assisted Recovery (NAMA-R) and patients at the Wellness Center MMTP in New York City. Beyond MARS uses a structured 20 hour curriculum to train patients in sustained recovery with medication assisted treatment to become “Peer Recovery Support Specialists”. 

BIRTH Program (Born in Recovery Through Healthcare)​

For over twenty years, our BIRTH Program has been providing specialized treatment tracks for pregnant patients in our medication assisted treatment programs for opioid use disorders. Pregnancy can be a stressful time especially for those also recovering from substance use disorders. We recognize that our pregnant patients require a variety of enhanced treatment resources specialized to meet their unique needs. Our nationally recognized BIRTH program offers initial and ongoing pre-natal evaluations, medical case management, psychosocial case management, patient education, counseling, and post-partum care. Our caring and dedicated staff includes physicians, nurses, counselors, and case managers. Over the past twenty years our patients have given birth to hundreds of healthy babies.

Year after year we strive to reach the goals of the BIRTH Program.

These include:

  • Decreasing the incidence of substance abuse during pregnancy.
  • Decreasing the incidence of low birth weight babies.
  • Increasing the gestational age of the pregnancy to full term or near full term.
  • Developing parenting skills and support systems.

BIRTH Program (Born in Recovery Through Healthcare)

For over twenty years, our BIRTH Program has been providing specialized treatment tracks for pregnant patients in our medication assisted treatment programs for opioid use disorders. Pregnancy can be a stressful time especially for those also recovering from substance use disorders. We recognize that our pregnant patients require a variety of enhanced treatment resources specialized to meet their unique needs. Our nationally recognized BIRTH program offers initial and ongoing pre-natal evaluations, medical case management, psychosocial case management, patient education, counseling, and post-partum care.

Education and Training Programs

Addiction Medicine Rotation and Hospital Presentations

Connecticut Counseling Center, Inc. Addiction Medicine Rotation Program is a training opportunity for medical students and hospital residents to learn about opioid dependence and best treatment practices in our medication assisted treatment programs. Under the supervision of Dr. Mark Kraus, MD, Chief Medical Officer, the Addiction Medicine Rotation Program provides medical students and hospital residents with invaluable knowledge and insight into the nature of opioid use disorders and the structure and effectiveness of medication assisted treatment. This is something physicians rarely learn about in medical school. This experience also can go a long way towards reducing addition related stigma within the medical community.

Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. is also a valuable resource for the medical community. Dr. Mark Kraus, Chief Medical Officer, Alan Nolan, LCSW, Director of Clinical Operations, and the Program Directors at our clinic sites routinely provide presentations on various behavioral healthcare topics to the medical and social work staff at area hospitals. 

Connecticut Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Training Program

Established in January 1995, the Connecticut Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Training Program (CT CADAC Training Program) assists both professionals in the field of substance use disorders and non-professionals in gaining the knowledge and educational hours necessary to become a licensed or certified counselor. More importantly, it prepares the student for a career in the field. The primary goal of the program is to provide the counselor with the tools necessary to provide state of the art evidence based care. The experienced instructors also mentor students to assist them in the development of their careers. The CT CADAC Training Program curriculum satisfies the Connecticut Department of Public Health educational requirements for certification/licensure as a Certified or Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor.

Internship Opportunities

We provide a number of Internship opportunities for students in graduate behavioral science programs. Our professional licensed clinical staff have years of experience in providing rich educational experiences for students who have the goal of becoming Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors, Licensed Professional Counselors, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers. Many of our interns have become employees of Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. as counselors. 

We also provide clinical rotations in behavioral healthcare for students in undergraduate nursing programs.

Education and Training Programs

Connecticut Counseling Center, Inc. offers valuable training programs. 

  • The Addiction Medicine Rotation Program educates medical students and residents on opioid dependence and treatment. 
  • The CT Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Training Program prepares professionals for licensure. 
  • Internship opportunities provide hands-on experience for future counselors and social workers.

Our Team.​

Connecticut Counseling Centers is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, licensed by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health and funded by the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.​

News & Events

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Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. Staff Present at the 2024 AATOD Conference

On May 18-22, 2024, thirteen Connecticut Counseling Centers, Inc. (CCC) staff members traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, to attend the 2024 American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) conference. The AATOD Conference convenes every 18 months and is the premier international conference on treatment for opioid use disorders. Over 1700 professionals representing 13 different countries attended the conference. This year’s conference theme was “Treating Opioid Use Disorders: So Much More Than Medication,” and many of the workshops reflected this theme. We heard from experts from around the world who shared the latest research, developments, and state-of-the-art treatment innovations relating to the treatment of opioid dependence. I continue to be very proud of the leadership role that CCC has maintained in our field over the past 40 years. Once again, CCC played a major role at the conference, with several members of our leadership team presenting three workshops, a Poster Presentation, and facilitating a Hot Topic Roundtable Discussion Forum. These presentations are listed below. Alan Nolan, LCSW, Director of Clinical Operations, and Jeff Greenblatt, MA, LADC, Norwalk Program Director, presented the poster “The Impact of Methadone Dosing on Fentanyl: An 18-Month Follow-up.” Mark Kraus, MD, Chief Medical Officer, and Alan Nolan, LCSW, Director of Clinical Operations, facilitated the Hot Topic Roundtable Discussion Forum “Navigating the Fentanyl Crisis: Implications for MAT Treatment Guidelines”. Alan Nolan, LCSW, Director of Clinical Operations, presented the workshop “Therapeutic Partnerships: The Most Important Evidence-Based Practice.” Alan Nolan, LCSW, Director of Clinical Operations, presented the workshop “Seeking Safety in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): A Model for Treating Trauma and Opioid Dependence.” Josh Noffsinger, LCSW, Meriden Program Director, and Alan Nolan, LCSW, Director of Clinical Operations, presented the workshop “Avoiding Burnout and Compassion Fatigue: How Self-Care among Substance Use Professionals Enhances Patient Care”. Our CCC employees did an exemplary job presenting. All of their presentations were very well received, and feedback was extremely positive. As both the President and Executive Director of CCC as well as a member of the AATOD Board of Directors and the AATOD Conference Planning Committee, I am very proud of our CCC presenters. Conferences like AATOD play a critical role in ensuring that the field has access to new information and technologies. It also provides a forum for providers and state partners to collaborate in their efforts to improve and expand the treatment system. It truly takes a community to effectively address the opioid epidemic. It was gratifying to see representatives from several other Connecticut providers as well as representatives from multiple Connecticut state agencies at the conference. We all will continue to collaborate in our efforts to reduce opioid overdose deaths and increase access to effective treatment and recovery services! Robert C. Lambert, MA, LADC President and Executive Director

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New Opioid Treatment Program Improves Access to Methadone Treatment 

Connecticut, like most states, has been experiencing a significant increase in accidental opioid overdose deaths. In Connecticut, there have been 1378 drug overdose fatalities in 2020, a 14.6% increase over the previous year. The data for 2021 is not yet finalized but is on track to exceed 2020 with 1,508 overdose deaths confirmed to date. Many of these overdose deaths involved the synthetic opioid, fentanyl, which is many times more powerful than heroin. In 2020 and 2021, 85% of overdose deaths involved fentanyl.  

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