GPS Community Programs

GPS For Recovery

GPS for Recovery is transforming how recovery communities across the nation provide support. GPS has developed a scalable, trauma-informed, and culturally competent model designed to meet the growing demand for effective peer-led group support. Through comprehensive facilitator training and an evidence-based approach, GPS equips recovery coaches, mental health professionals, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience with the tools to create safe, welcoming spaces where individuals in recovery can heal, grow, and reclaim their dignity. GPS for Recovery support groups foster connection, resilience, and empowerment for those navigating the complex journey of recovery.

Meeting the Urgent Need: More Support for People in Recovery

Now more than ever, people in recovery need more than just treatment — they need connection, compassion, and tools to heal the deeper wounds of substance use disorder. GPS for Recovery delivers trauma-informed, evidence-based support that works — and meets people where they are.

Creates safe, compassionate spaces for healing where participants can build authentic connections and mutual respect.
Empowers participants to reclaim their self-esteem and courage by fostering communities of belonging and resilience.
Proven effective in a wide range of recovery settings, including residential treatment programs, outpatient programs, methadone and suboxone clinics, and more.
Reaches and supports a range populations, including parents, people experiencing homelessness, currently or formerly incarcerated individuals, those mandated to treatment, and families engaged with child protective services

Wherever it’s introduced, GPS for Recovery creates spaces of respect, resilience, and hope — helping people move forward on their healing journey.

How GPS for Recovery Makes a Difference

The GPS Model equips both clinical providers and peer specialists with powerful, trauma-informed facilitation tools to create spaces where healing and growth can flourish. Designed to deliver immediate support for mental wellness, foster resilience, and engage individuals more deeply in their journey, GPS meets people where they are — and helps them move forward.

Strengthens treatment engagement with consistent, evidence-informed support
GPS groups complement existing services while expanding reach and impact.
Participants experience a sense of belonging and safety that keeps them engaged in their recovery.
Creates trauma-sensitive environments that break down barriers to healing
Individuals are supported as they process personal and generational trauma, as well as feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation — experiences that often keep people stuck.

Builds communities of mutual respect and courage
GPS helps participants reconnect with their self-worth, regain confidence, and support one another as they navigate challenges.
Led by peers and professionals alike
Flexible facilitation empowers both peer leaders and clinicians to guide impactful groups with confidence and compassion.
Programs can grow their capacity without sacrificing quality or consistency.

Together, we can build a stronger, more accessible network of support — one that’s trauma-informed, culturally attuned, and rooted in the power of connection.

“I was a mom struggling with addiction, attending lots of treatment groups. But GPS was my missing piece. It gave me back my self-respect, helped me maintain sobriety, and made me a much better mom. I now lead GPS groups for moms working on their recovery.”
Erica Napolitan, Maternal Substance Use and Recovery Specialist
“GPS has been an invaluable tool in supporting hospital and healthcare teams as they work to provide seamless, integrated care for pregnant and parenting people impacted by substance use and mental health challenges. Our work at Moms Do Care and IHR has been fundamentally changed because of GPS, and our work is stronger than ever.”
Laura Sternberger, Director, Pregnant and Postpartum Women’s Services and Director, Massachusetts Moms Do Care Program, Institute for Health and Recovery
What I love about GPS is its structure and adaptability. We can use curricula for the people we serve while maintaining the structure of GPS. It is a trauma-informed model that we use in all our groups now.”
Debra Bercuvitz, Director, Perinatal Substance Use Initiative, MA Department of Public Health
“As the co-facilitator of the Dads in Recovery GPS group, I’ve witnessed firsthand how powerful it can be for fathers to open up in a space designed for them. For me, even as a facilitator, this group is incredibly valuable. One of the best things I’ve gained from recovery is the ability to be my true, honest self, and this group has provided me with a safe space to do that.”
Adam, Family Recovery Support Specialist

Why GPS is the Right Choice for Your Recovery Program

Since 2019, GPS has been a trusted partner to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance and Addiction Services (BSAS), training over 2,000 recovery coaches, peer specialists, and providers in our innovative, trauma-informed model. Today, GPS groups are creating meaningful change across Massachusetts — empowering facilitators with confidence and skill, and reaching individuals from all walks of life with compassion and care. Built on this success, GPS offers its proven, culturally responsive approach to recovery communities across the country.

Elevate Your Support Services
Give your team the tools to lead transformative, trauma-sensitive groups that address the emotional and mental health needs often overlooked in traditional programs.
Blend Expertise and Lived Experience
Harness the unique strengths of peer specialists alongside clinically trained providers to create spaces where every participant feels respected, understood, and supported.

Grow Without Growing Pains
Seamlessly incorporate GPS into your existing programs with minimal cost or disruption — a scalable solution that delivers real, measurable impact.
Achieve Real, Lasting ImpactFacilitators trained in GPS consistently report stronger group cohesion, increased engagement, and deeper connections — outcomes that strengthen the entire recovery process.