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A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Recovery
Balanced Recovery Center Newsletter - July 30th, 2025 Volume 8
A Note from Our Team: Embracing Change Together
What a whirlwind July has been! This month, our programming has been centered around a powerful theme: Facing Change. Recovery isn't about avoiding life's challenges, but about building the strength and skills to navigate them with grace and resilience.
As summer winds down, the "back-to-school" season approaches, bringing its own set of changes and stresses for students and parents alike. We believe this is the perfect time to build a foundation of support. Establishing healthy routines and getting help now can make all the difference in managing the pressures of the academic year ahead. Let's face this next season together, stronger than before.
Program Highlights & Holistic Healing
It's been a month of incredible growth for our clients!
Step Forward Mondays: Our new group has been a huge success! It’s designed to help clients set positive intentions and build momentum for the week ahead. Curious to learn more? Reach out to our Program Manager, Chris Albano.
Unique Holistic Modalities: We believe in treating the whole person. This month, clients have benefited from our unique holistic offerings, including therapeutic massage, calming Reiki, and expressive Nia Sounds sessions, helping to connect mind, body, and spirit.
What Does Holistic Support Look Like?
In recovery, "holistic" means we treat the whole person—not just the symptoms. It’s about understanding the deep connection between your mind, body, and spirit. But what does that actually mean?
Here's an example: Imagine a client is feeling overwhelmed by anxiety. Their thoughts are racing, and their body is tense. In traditional talk therapy, they might discuss the source of the anxiety. In a holistic session, they engage with it differently.
During a Nia Sounds session, instead of talking, they might be guided to make a sound that matches their feeling of anxiety—maybe a low hum or a sigh. Then, they're encouraged to move their body in a way that releases that tension. By physically expressing the emotion, they are not just analyzing it; they are processing it through their body.
How this helps: This approach helps you reconnect with your body in a safe way, release "stuck" emotions that words can't always reach, and learn to self-soothe. It builds resilience from the inside out, giving you more tools to create a balanced and sustainable recovery.
A Story of Recovery: Choosing a Different Path
"For months, I knew I needed help, but the thought of starting was terrifying. I told myself I wasn't 'ready.' My addiction was comfortable in its chaos, and it didn't want me to see that I was choosing isolation every single day. Walking into BRC was the hardest and best choice I've ever made. It wasn't about changing who I was overnight; it was about having a safe place to finally choose something different—to choose connection, to choose myself. The support I found here gave me the clarity to see that." - Anonymous BRC Alumnus
BRC in the Community: Agawam National Night Out!
We had an absolutely wonderful time at the Agawam National Night Out! It was a successful and heartwarming tabling event held at the beautiful School St Park. We want to extend a huge thank you to the Agawam Police Department for hosting such a fantastic community gathering. It was a privilege to connect with so many local folks and families.
Employee Highlight: Joel Khattar, MS
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on our Director of Community Relations, Joel Khattar!
Joel is one of the friendly faces of BRC in the community. With a deep passion for breaking down barriers to treatment, he works tirelessly to build relationships with providers, families, and local organizations. Joel believes that connection is the cornerstone of recovery and is dedicated to ensuring that anyone who reaches out feels heard, respected, and hopeful. His commitment to making sure care is accessible to everyone is a vital part of our mission. We are so grateful to have him on our team!
We Have Openings! Start Your Journey Today.
Now is the perfect time to get the support you deserve.
We have immediate openings in all of our programs:
College Program: Specialized support for young adults.
Full-Day Program (PHP): For intensive, structured care.
Half-Day Program (IOP): Flexible to fit your life.
Virtual Options: Access our complete programs from anywhere in MA.
Don't wait. Call us today and let's get started!
Balanced Recovery Center Newsletter - June 30th, 2025 Volume 7
Balanced Recover Center
Nourishing Mind, Body, and Spirit
A Heartfelt Thank You: Midday Mingle - A Resounding Success!
We are thrilled to report on the incredible turnout at our Midday Mingle event on Wednesday, June 11th! It was a true success, bringing together so many dedicated community partners, healthcare professionals, and friends of Balanced Recovery Center.
The energy and shared commitment in the room were truly inspiring. BRC is profoundly motivated by the outpouring of community support for accessible, high-quality care for all in Western Massachusetts. It reinforces our belief that by working together, we can significantly enhance the continuum of care and ensure every individual receives the support they deserve. Thank you to everyone who showed up – your presence makes a difference!
What Makes BRC Stand Out: Our Comprehensive Offerings
At Balanced Recovery Center, we pride ourselves on providing individualized, trauma-informed, and holistic care designed for lasting recovery. We're dedicated to meeting diverse needs with flexible and impactful programs:
Flexible Outpatient Programs: We offer both Full Day and Half Day programs, providing structured support tailored to individual schedules.
Comprehensive Care for Mental Health & SUD: Our expertise covers both Mental Health (MH) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) challenges, including co-occurring conditions.
Extensive Virtual Flexibility: Many of our programs, including individual counseling and a wide array of groups, are available virtually. This ensures accessible care from the comfort of one's home, removing barriers like transportation and stigma, and allowing us to serve clients statewide.
Holistic Modalities: We integrate a diverse range of therapeutic approaches to nourish mind, body, and spirit. This includes practices like Yoga & Body Work, Reiki, Art Therapy, Meditation & Mindfulness, Animal Therapy, Nutritional Wellness, Nature Exploration, and Community Connections.
"Empowering Students for College Success": A specialized virtual program providing tailored support for young adults transitioning to college life, covered by most commercial insurance plans.
Embracing the Journey: Why Summer is a Great Time for Support
Summer often brings a sense of renewal and open possibility. It's a time when natural light is abundant, and the pace can feel a bit lighter for some, making it an ideal period to focus on personal growth and seek support.
As F. Scott Fitzgerald beautifully put it, "And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer."
If you or someone you know is considering support, summer's warmth and vibrancy can be a perfect backdrop for new beginnings in healing and self-discovery.
Featured This Month: Our Incredible Interns!
This month, we want to shine a bright spotlight on the incredible work and dedication of our interns at Balanced Recovery Center!
Our interns bring fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and a deep commitment to learning and serving our clients. They are an invaluable part of our BRC community, providing essential support to our clients and contributing immensely to our team's success.
Their passion and hard work truly embody the spirit of care that defines BRC.
A huge, heartfelt THANK YOU to all our interns for their exceptional contributions!
Celebrating Pride: Affirming Every Journey
June is Pride Month, a time for celebration, remembrance, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. At Balanced Recovery Center, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, affirming, and safe environment for individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. We understand the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in mental health and addiction recovery.
Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable, and respectful care that honors each person's authentic self. Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued on their path to healing.
Men's Mental Health Month: Breaking the Silence
June is also Men's Mental Health Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about the unique mental health challenges men face and to encourage seeking support. Societal expectations can often make it difficult for men to express vulnerability or seek help for struggles like depression, anxiety, or addiction.
At BRC, we recognize these barriers and are dedicated to providing a supportive space where men feel comfortable and empowered to address their mental well-being. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and our team is here to provide confidential, effective care.h perspectives, boundless energy, and a deep commitment to learning and serving our clients. They are an invaluable part of our BRC community, providing essential support to our clients and contributing immensely to our team's success. Their passion and hard work truly embody the spirit of care that defines BRC.
Balanced Recovery Center Newsletter - May 30th, 2025 Volume 6
Welcome
We're excited to share the latest news and updates from Balanced Recovery Center. This month, we're highlighting our comprehensive programs, inviting you to connect with us, and sharing stories of hope and healing.
Our Core Difference: "Not Just Any Other Program"
At Balanced Recovery Center, our approach is built on a foundation designed for lasting recovery and wellness:
Individualized: We provide tailored treatment for each client, recognizing that every journey is unique.Trauma-Informed:Our team is sensitive and responsive to past experiences, ensuring a safe and healing environment.Hands-On:We offer active and engaged therapeutic approaches that empower clients.Focus:We emphasize inner balance and lasting healing, with a strong focus on family and community integration.
Our Holistic Approach
We address the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Our in-person services are located at 168 Denslow Rd, East Longmeadow, MA.
Our Key Programs & Offerings
We have immediate openings in many of our programs!
Empowering Students for College Success (Virtual Focus): Specifically designed for students transitioning to college in the fall, offering virtual individual and group support for a smooth journey. We provide personalized counseling and peer support to help young adults thrive in college life. Covered by MOST commercial insurance plans! Call 413-331-7810 to start your Journey today.
Virtual Healing at Balanced Recovery (Evening Groups - Accessible from Home): Monday 5:30-7:30 PM
..Hope: Gratitude & Grounding-Tuesday 5:30-7:30 PM
..Tanaisha: Sound Healing, Reiki & Meditation-Wednesday 5:30-7:30 PM
..Hope: Inner Circle Work/Comprehensive Treatment
Options: Full Day Programs, Half Day Programs, Outpatient Services
The Power of Holistic Wellness: A Client's Journey
At BRC, we believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. One client's story beautifully illustrates the transformative power of our holistic approach.
When this individual first came to us, they were struggling with chronic stress and a deep sense of disconnect, which often led them back to old patterns. They had tried traditional therapy before, but something always felt missing. At BRC, they began attending our yoga and mindfulness sessions alongside their individual counseling. Initially skeptical, they soon found a quiet strength in connecting with their breath and body.
"It wasn't just about talking anymore," they shared with us. "The yoga helped me release tension I didn't even know I was holding, and the mindfulness taught me to observe my thoughts without getting swept away by them. For the first time, I felt truly present and capable of handling stress without turning to old coping mechanisms."
This client also explored our nutritional guidance, learning how to fuel their body in a way that supported their mood and energy. This integrated approach—addressing their emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being—allowed them to build a resilience they'd never known. They not only found recovery but also discovered a vibrant, balanced life they now cherish. This journey is a powerful reminder that true healing encompasses every part of who we are.
Employee Spotlight: Welcome Chris Albano-Outreach Coordinator
Join us in giving a warm welcome to Chris Albano—the newest addition to our outreach team at Balanced Recovery!
Chris is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor Assistant, with a wealth of experience in substance abuse recovery and case management. We’re beyond excited to have him on board!
Chris is also launching our brand-new Step Forward Group on Monday evenings—a powerful space for support, growth, and connection.
Midday Mingle - Connect with BRC and Community Providers!
You're invited! Join us for our Midday Mingle, a fantastic opportunity for community members and private practices to:
Learn about BRC's comprehensive offerings.
Network with fellow community providers.
Enjoy refreshments and connect with our team.
Chris Albano, our Outreach Coordinator, and Joel, our Director of Community Relations, will be there with some of our team to answer any questions you may have.
Sign up at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/midday-mingle-at-balanced-recovery-center-tickets-1355182610669
Balanced Recovery Center Newsletter - April 30th, 2025 Volume 5
A New Bloom for Balanced Recovery Center!
We are thrilled to announce an exciting expansion of services here at Balanced Recovery Center! Building upon our strong
foundation in addiction recovery, we are now newly licensed to offer comprehensive mental health services. This significant step allows us to enrich our programming and provide a more holistic approach to healing and well-being for our clients. We believe that addressing both substance use and mental health in an integrated way leads to more sustainable and meaningful recovery.
Growing Together: Collaborating for a Stronger Western Massachusetts
As we embark on this new chapter, we are eager to collaborate with fellow community organizations across Western Massachusetts. By working together, we can strengthen the network of support available to individuals and families seeking recovery and mental health services. We envision a community where comprehensive and accessible care is readily available to all who need it. If your organization shares our commitment to fostering well-being, we would love to connect!
Immediate Program Openings:
We currently have immediate openings in our diverse program options to meet individual needs with our holistic approach:
-Half-Day Programs: Offering focused support while allowing flexibility.
-Full-Day Programs: Providing a comprehensive and immersive recovery experience.
-Flexible Programs: Tailored to accommodate varying schedules and commitments.
Welcoming New Clients for Mental Health & 1:1 Therapy:
In addition to our existing addiction recovery services, we are now accepting new clients for individual mental health therapy and 1:1 support. Our dedicated team of licensed professionals is equipped to address a wide range of mental health concerns, providing compassionate and evidence-based care.
Are you seeking comprehensive support for complex challenges? At Balanced Recovery Center, we offer a holistic approach to mental wellness, providing expert care for:
-Complex Trauma
-Autism Spectrum
-Personality Disorders
-ADHD
-Bipolar Disorder
-Substance Abuse
We go beyond traditional therapy with powerful holistic and clinical services, including:
-Massage Therapy
-Reiki & Sound Healing
-Yoga & Breath Work
-Occupational Therapy
-Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
-Family & Couples Counseling
Looking for accessible support? Join our Virtual Healing Evenings, Monday–Wednesday from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM, for Body Regulation Work, Inner Circle Exploration, and Grounding & Connection Practices – all from the comfort of your home!
For referrals or any questions regarding our programs and services, please contact Joel Khattar, Director Of Community Relations, at
413-331-7810.
The Power of Commitment Meetings:
Our commitment meetings continue to be a vital and well-attended component of our programming. These gatherings provide a supportive space for clients to connect, share their experiences, and gain valuable insights and practical tips to add to their coping
mechanisms. The collective wisdom and encouragement found within these meetings empower individuals on their recovery journey.
As the saying goes,"Commitment is doing the thing you said you were going to do long after the mood you said it in has left you."
This sentiment truly reflects the dedication and perseverance we witness in our commitment meetings.
Spring Forward into Recovery: A Time for Renewal
Mid to late spring is a crucial time to begin the journey of recovery. Just as nature awakens and new growth emerges, this season offers a sense of hope and possibility for personal transformation. Studies have shown that increased exposure to sunlight and outdoor activities during spring can positively impact mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, creating a more conducive environment for healing.
As the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) highlights, "Engaging in regular physical activity and spending time outdoors can significantly improve mental well-being." This natural boost, combined with the structured support of a recovery program, can provide a powerful catalyst for positive change.
This Month's Spotlight: Elysse Cooper - Dedicated to Healing
This month, we are pleased to highlight Elysse Cooper, a valued member of our team at Balanced Recovery Center.
Elysse brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role, holding a BA in Human Services and a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her specialties include substance use disorders and trauma.
With over 15+ years of experience working with individuals and families in diverse settings, Elysse is deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective care.
Elysse's approach is guided by the insightful words of Jon Kabat-Zinn: "You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf." This philosophy underscores her belief in empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
Balanced Recovery Center Newsletter
Volume 4, March 2025
Spring into Recovery with BRC!
Welcome to the March edition of the Balanced Recovery Center newsletter! As the days grow longer and spring breathes new life into our surroundings, we're excited to share the latest updates and highlights from BRC.
Expanding Our Reach, Enhancing Your Recovery:
New Client Enrollment:
We're thrilled to announce that we are now accepting new clients for our comprehensive programs! Whether you're seeking a full-day, half-day, or our flexible hybrid virtual program, BRC is here to support your journey to lasting recovery.
Call us today! (413) 331-7810
Holistic Healing:
At BRC, we understand that recovery is a holistic process. We continue to offer a range of exciting holistic modalities designed to equip you with essential coping tools for long-term success.
The "Co-Reg" Corner:
In our ongoing commitment to implementing the ARC framework, we've introduced the "Co-Reg" corner. This dedicated space provides a supportive environment for individuals to regulate their emotions and connect with others when needed.
Commitment Meetings:
We consistently hold regular commitment meetings to keep all of our clients on track with their recovery.
Partnerships and Community:
We were honored to recently meet with the incredible staff at RCA Westminster inpatient facility. Their dedication to providing exceptional care complements our outpatient services, and we look forward to a blessed and fruitful partnership. In Addition, we were able to visit the grounds of Swift River in Cummington, MA. It is a beautiful facility. We are thankful for our continued partnership.
Community Connections:
The bonds formed within our groups are truly mesmerizing. The relationships our clients build with one another, facilitated by great sharing, games, and holistic modalities, create a powerful support system.Spring Events:
With spring on the horizon, we're eager to connect with our community at various local events. Do you know of events where BRC should have a presence? Please share your suggestions by emailing
Balanced Spotlight: Ashley Maroney, LMHC
Managing Partner/Owner & Program Director
We're delighted to shine a spotlight on Ashley Maroney, LMHC, a driving force behind BRC's success.
Expertise and Experience: Ashley earned her Master's degree from Assumption University in Worcester, MA, in 2014 and obtained her clinical mental health license in 2016. Her career has been dedicated to specializing in the treatment of substance use disorders, with extensive experience across the entire spectrum of care.Holistic
Approach: A certified yoga teacher since 2018, Ashley integrates yogic breath and movement into her practice, believing that meaningful recovery starts from within.
Program Development: She focuses on developing thriving programs and clinicians, navigating the complexities of managed care.
Community Building: Ashley understands the power of community, and fosters the group setting that allows for deep healing.
Visit Us Online:
For more information about our programs and services, please visit our website at www.balancedrecoverycenter.com
Stay Connected:
We're committed to supporting your journey to recovery and mental health. Stay tuned for more updates and events in the coming months.
Warmly,
The Balanced Recovery Center Team
Balanced Recovery Center
February 1, 2025
BRC's January Roundup: Building Bridges and Celebrating Success
January has been a month of connection, growth, and celebration at Balanced Recovery Center!
Celebrating Client Success
This month, we also celebrate a long-standing client who recently graduated from our program. While we can't share her name, we can share our immense pride in her journey. She demonstrated incredible tenacity and effort, acquiring essential life skills and tools to support her long-term recovery. The entire Balanced team is inspired by her dedication and wishes her continued success in her journey.
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and the effectiveness of BRC's comprehensive approach to treatment.
Strengthening Community Partnerships
We believe that "it takes a village" to support individuals in recovery. That's why we're committed to building strong relationships with community partners. We're grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with organizations like Arbor Counseling Services, Berkshire Mountain Detox, and many others who share our passion for helping people achieve lasting sobriety.
BRC's Holistic Approach:
Setting Us Apart
At BRC, we go beyond traditional therapy to offer a holistic and integrated approach to recovery. Our unique modalities include:
Yoga: Promoting physical and mental well-being through movement and breathwork.
Mindfulness: Cultivating present-moment awareness to reduce stress and increase self-regulation.
Meditation: Encouraging deep relaxation and inner peace.
Art Therapy: Providing a creative outlet for expression and healing.
Music Therapy: Utilizing the power of music to soothe the soul and process emotions.
Nature Therapy: Connecting with the healing power of the natural world.
Animal-Assisted Therapy: Experiencing the comfort and joy of interacting with animals.
Reiki: Promoting relaxation and healing through energy work.
Massage: Relieving muscle tension and promoting a sense of well-being.
Sound Healing: Using vibrational frequencies to harmonize the mind and body.
NIA: A movement practice that blends dance, martial arts, and healing arts.
Now Accepting Clients in Our Full-Day and Half-Day, Half Day Flex Programs
We currently have openings in our structured, full-day program half day and our flexible, half-day program option. The half-day program allows you to personalize your schedule and attend sessions at times that work best for you with virtual options. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about how BRC can help.
Call us today at
413-331-6781
to get started.Visit our website to learn more at
www.balancedrecoverycenter.com
.
Get started today!
A Game of Ups and Downs: BRC's Interactive Approach to Relapse Prevention
This January, BRC's our treatment groups took a playful yet profound approach to understanding relapse prevention. We transformed our yoga room into a life-sized game of Chutes and Ladders, with participants stepping, sliding, and climbing their way through the challenges and triumphs of recovery. But this wasn't just child's play. As participants landed on different squares, they engaged in thoughtful discussions, answering questions designed to highlight key aspects of maintaining sobriety.
What are some healthy coping mechanisms you use to deal with stress?How do you identify your triggers?Who are your biggest supporters in recovery?What does self-care mean to you?
The game served as a powerful metaphor for the recovery journey.
Just like in Chutes and Ladders, there are ups and downs, setbacks and triumphs. The "ladders" represented positive choices, supportive relationships, and healthy coping skills that propel individuals forward. The "chutes" symbolized triggers, unhealthy behaviors, and challenging situations that can lead to lapses or relapses.
By visualizing these concepts in a game format, participants gained a deeper understanding of the relapse process and learned how to navigate potential pitfalls. The interactive nature of the activity fostered open communication and encouraged participants to share their experiences and insights.
This creative approach to relapse prevention is just one example of how BRC goes beyond traditional therapy to engage clients in meaningful and impactful ways. We believe that learning should be fun, interactive, and relevant to real-life experiences.
January's Employee Highlight: Tanaisha Espino, MS, Lead Clinician
This month, we're also shining the spotlight on Tanaisha Espino, MS, Lead Clinician at BRC. Tanaisha is a graduate of Bay Path University, where she earned her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in trauma. She is bilingual fluent in Spanish and has diverse clinical experience, having worked in settings such as schools, in-home therapy, residential programs, and group private practice.
Tanaisha has a strong background in supporting children and adults facing complex trauma, substance use challenges, and developmental delays. She is trained in evidence-based approaches, including TF-CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, the ARC framework, and somatic treatment. With a relational and client-centered approach, Tanaisha emphasizes collaboration throughout the therapeutic process.
A passionate dog enthusiast, she enjoys incorporating pet therapy into her work by bringing her golden retriever, Maverick, (pictured below )
to BRC to support clients in their healing journey.
Balanced Recovery Center
December 7, 2024
Our Grand Opening
Balanced Recovery Center's Grand Opening was held on
December 5, 2024.
What an incredible day it was! We are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who joined us to celebrate the Grand Opening of Balanced Recovery Center. The energy and support were truly inspiring!
A special thank you to our esteemed guests, Author of "Voices from the Fallen", Michael Tourville , Senator Jake Oliveira and House Representative Brian Ashe for our recognition of citations and for taking the time to celebrate with us and share their commitment to supporting recovery in our community.
We are also incredibly grateful for the strong presence of our community partners, including Bay Path University, Swift River, Aware Recovery Care, Granite Recovery Centers, the East Longmeadow Police Department (including Chief Flanagan), and so many others. Your collaboration is essential to building a strong recovery ecosystem in Western Mass.
Thank you to Western Mass News for covering our event and helping us spread the word about the importance of accessible, quality addiction treatment.
And most importantly, thank you to our amazing local community for welcoming us with open arms. We are dedicated to being a resource for you and your loved ones on the journey to recovery.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (413) 331-7810
Address Office: 168 Denslow Road, East Longmeadow MA 01028