GPS Community Programs

MASStrong

MASStrong is a statewide initiative that strengthens Massachusetts’ healthcare workforce with peer support, tailored resources, and trauma-informed solutions. MASStrong helps healthcare and support providers build resilience, prevent burnout, and foster healing. Through strategic partnerships and funding, MASStrong delivers free facilitator training, toolkits, and peer support groups to sustain those who care for others.

Empower Your Community

Proven Impact

Healthcare workers in Massachusetts face significant challenges, including high rates of burnout, workforce shortages, and inequities in accessing mental health resources. Staffing shortages and administrative burdens have exacerbated stress levels, with more than 25% of healthcare workers showing signs of PTSD and 58% reporting burnout.

MASStrong has already demonstrated significant impact:

Over 90% of participants feel more equipped to support their peers
97% of participants said they would recommend the program to colleagues.
Facilitator training has led to an expansion of peer-led support within healthcare settings.

Rooted in over 20 years of experience, the GPS model is a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach that provides structured, supportive environments for health professionals—including those in healthcare, behavioral health, social services, and frontline roles—and equips them to implement and sustain similar support within the communities they serve.

MASStrong Provides

MASStrong equips Massachusetts healthcare workers and organizations with the tools, training, and support they need to foster resilience and well-being.

Up to $10,000 in Funding: MASStrong offers financial and structural support to hospitals, clinics, nonprofits, and other healthcare organizations to implement and launch peer support models.
FREE Facilitator Trainings & Certification: Healthcare providers can sign up for GPS’s trauma-informed, evidence-based group facilitation training and certification. Participants will learn to lead support groups in their workplaces and communities, as well as for the patients and clients they serve, fostering group support networks. They can also earn CEUs and CMEs.

FREE Peer Support Groups: Confidential support groups are available to healthcare professionals, with specialized sessions for behavioral and mental healthcare workers, physicians, nurses, home health aides, perinatal workers, BIPOC healthcare providers, and other unique communities.
FREE Customizable Resources: Healthcare organizations can receive customizable mental health and wellness toolkits and curriculum to integrate GPS group support into their settings, for both their employees and the communities they serve.

MASStrong is funded by the MA Behavioral Health Trust Fund.

“MASStrong is an innovative, evidence-based approach to providing real support to those on the front lines of our health care system. I’m delighted to see the launch of the latest phase of this vital program.”
MA State Senator Julian Cyr
“MASStrong’s emphasis on peer support to improve mental and behavioral health will undoubtedly provide relief to frontline employees caring for the health of communities across the Commonwealth.”
MA State Representative Adrian Madaro
“Being able to share my stories with people who get it and were going through similar things was so helpful. I looked forward to meeting with a group of people that I could relate to.”
Latoya C., Home Health Aide and MASStrong Participant
“MASStrong has been a game-changer for me. Not only have I received critical support through the program, but I’ve been able to bring this model into my own workplace to help others. Without MASStrong, I would have burned out long ago.”
Betty Doherty, a Family Recovery Support Specialist with the First Steps Together Program
“Thank you for developing and enhancing this wonderful resource to help support and sustain our dedicated health care providers.”
Laura Sternberger, Director, Moms Do Care, Institute for Health and Recovery
“At a time when the healthcare system is facing unprecedented strain, PAs are carrying heavier burdens than ever, this partnership reflects MAPA’s commitment to sustaining the PA workforce. Through this partnership, MAPA is investing in the wellbeing of our members which will yield untold benefits to PAs and the patients we serve.”
Duncan Daviau, President, MA Association of Physician Assistants
“Our collaboration with GPS and MASStrong directly aligns with our mission to invest in the well-being of our dedicated mental health professionals, recognizing that sustainable, high-quality care begins with those who deliver it. Together, we are strengthening the foundation of behavioral health care by expanding access to restorative support, promoting resilience, and ensuring our teams feel seen, valued, and equipped to thrive.”
Jon Van Rader, President/CEO, New England Behavioral Health Services, Inc
“The GPS program is designed to provide non-judgmental, trauma informed and culturally sensitive support. This approach supports our mission wonderfully and collaborating with MASStrong supports our deeper extension into the communities we serve across the Commonwealth.”
Paul Alves, Executive Director, CHOiCE Recovery Coaching
“This MAPSN partnership with GPS through MASStrong is more than funding, it is a lifeline for nurses facing the challenges of Substance Use Disorder and mental health concerns. Together, we are creating a future where every nurse feels seen, supported, and empowered to seek help without fear or stigma.”
Hugo Vieira RN, MAPSN President & Founder
“We are incredibly grateful to have been chosen as a recipient of MASStrong funding to support the GPS partnership. CHD prides itself on identifying effective and innovative ways to support our staff in doing the challenging work they do every day, in a way that feels empowering and thoughtful.”
Shannon Hicks, Northern Regional Director- CHD Outpatient Division
“Through our partnership with GPS, we are enhancing the quality and reach of our services, ensuring those we support have access to the best possible care. This collaboration also reflects our dedication to investing in and uplifting our workforce, honoring the invaluable contributions they make every day.”
Amie Sica, Vice President, Recovery and Peer Services
GPS is a place to heal the healer. We empty and empty, and sometimes we just need a spot where we can be ourselves.
Choice Recovery Coaching Staff Member

Eligibility

GPS’s MASStrong program supports the mental health and wellness of anyone who provides care and connection to others in Massachusetts, including:

Allied health professionals
Care coordinators, case managers
Community healthcare workers
Direct care workers (CNAs, HHAs, PCAs, residential staff)
Emergency responders
Frontline staff
Healthcare aides
Home-based and long-term care workers
Medical and behavioral health providers

Non-clinical care and support providers
Pharmacists
Recovery and peer support specialists
Social workers and counselors
Staff in long-term care and elder care settings
Those in employee support services, such as Human Resources, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and staff wellness or mental health support roles.