BURLINGTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Groups, a leading outpatient provider specializing in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, is proud to announce its partnership with The Quell Foundation as part of its Gift of Recovery program. This collaboration aims to further Groups’ mission of changing lives by improving access to high-quality addiction care while reducing stigma and fostering mental health advocacy in underserved communities.
Since 2014, Groups has supported hundreds of thousands of individuals on their recovery journeys. Groups’ industry-leading program combines evidence-based medication, group therapy, and personalized support to help members overcome addiction and thrive. With a value-based model that prioritizes accessibility and both clinical and social outcomes, Groups works with community partners, public agencies, and health plans to create meaningful, measurable change in addiction health care.
Addressing the Workforce Shortage
The United States faces a critical shortage of qualified addiction and mental health professionals, a challenge that threatens the ability to meet the growing demand for substance use treatment. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the country is projected to have a deficit of 87,630 addiction counselors by 2036, meaning only 53% of the demand for these professionals will be met.
The Quell Foundation’s Bridge the Gap program supports the next generation of mental health professionals through scholarships and mentorship. Since its inception, The Quell Foundation has distributed over $3.5 million in scholarships to more than 1,800 recipients, helping to eliminate the significant shortage of addiction treatment and mental health care providers with every cohort.
The Gift of Recovery Program
Through the Gift of Recovery program, Groups encourages its members to share their recovery experiences and extend a helping hand to others seeking addiction treatment. For every member referral, Groups donates to a values-aligned charitable organization.
Since launching the Gift of Recovery program, member referrals have increased by 37% year over year, showcasing the impact and appeal of community-based charitable giving. In 2024, the program raised nearly $30,000 to support Shatterproof, a nonprofit committed to ending addiction stigma and increasing the accessibility of addiction treatment. This year, the program will partner with The Quell Foundation to help train and support individuals pursuing careers in addiction recovery and mental health.
"We are honored to partner with The Quell Foundation to advance our shared mission of improving access to life-changing addiction and mental health care," said Colleen Nicewicz, CEO of Groups "By supporting the next generation of mental health professionals through the Gift of Recovery program, we’re not only addressing a critical workforce gap but also empowering our members to make a lasting impact in their communities. Together, we’re building a future where recovery is accessible to all and stigma has no place."
"Recovery isn’t just about overcoming addiction — it’s about building a life of purpose and dignity," said Kevin Lynch, Founder and CEO of The Quell Foundation. "Through our partnership with Groups, we’re ensuring that more individuals have access to the education and training they need to lead in the fields of mental health and addiction recovery, breaking the cycle of stigma and empowering real change."
Impact Highlights
- In 2024, Groups raised $30,000 for Shatterproof through the Gift of Recovery program.
- Member referrals increased by 37% year-over-year since launching the program.
- The Quell Foundation has awarded scholarships to over 1,800 individuals, helping to build the future addiction treatment workforce.
- The U.S. faces a projected shortfall of 87,630 addiction counselors by 2036, highlighting the need for programs like Bridge the Gap to address this crisis.
About Groups
Groups is a leading provider of outpatient substance use disorder treatment. By combining medication-assisted treatment, group therapy, and personalized support, Groups empowers individuals to reclaim their lives from addiction. Its value-based model ensures high-quality care is accessible to all, delivered online and in person by trusted local providers.
About The Quell Foundation
The Quell Foundation works to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, normalize conversations about mental health conditions, and expand access to care. Through scholarships, educational grants, and innovative programming, the Foundation supports individuals, families, and communities on their mental health journeys.
