GRIT - Ridgewood

Structured Residential Program for Men

GRIT Ridgewood offers 24/7 residential care in Springfield for men with substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. Run by the nonprofit Mental Health Association (MHA), the program emphasizes stability in a home-like environment, where family involvement is welcomed and residents build routines that support lasting recovery. Smoking and vaping are permitted in designated areas.

Integrated and Trauma-Informed Treatment

The program combines counseling, trauma-informed approaches, and medications for addiction treatment (MAT) when appropriate. Therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, relapse prevention, anger management, trauma counseling, and twelve-step facilitation. Residents also receive medical and behavioral health screening, with testing available for HIV, STDs, and hepatitis. Family counseling helps strengthen relationships and support systems during treatment.

Building Daily Skills and Community Connection

Beyond therapy, residents gain practical tools for independence. Daily living skills are reinforced through cooking groups, nutrition education, and group exercise. Career planning, vocational training, and community volunteering offer opportunities to build stability and purpose. Employment counseling and recovery coaching provide added support for residents preparing for life after treatment.

Transition and Long-Term Support

To ensure continuity after discharge, GRIT Ridgewood offers aftercare planning, overdose education, naloxone training, and outcome follow-up. Residents also access peer mentoring, housing assistance, and social service connections. Specialized programming addresses trauma and co-occurring conditions, while suicide prevention and gambling disorder treatment expand available supports. These services help residents return to their communities with confidence and ongoing recovery tools.