Our interventionists help Massachusetts families confront a loved one's drinking with a plan, a treatment bed waiting and support that continues long after the first yes.
An alcohol intervention is a planned conversation, led by a professional interventionist, in which a family asks someone who drinks too much to accept treatment that day. We travel to families throughout Massachusetts, from Worcester, Springfield and Cape Cod to smaller towns, with treatment and sober transport arranged in advance. Not sure it is time? Read the signs a loved one needs an intervention.
Court-ordered addiction treatment. In limited cases, under Section 35 (M.G.L. c. 123, s. 35).
Drinking and the law. Under M.G.L. c. 90, s. 24D, an eligible first OUI offender may get probation with a required driver alcohol education program and a 45 to 90 day license suspension (source).
State agency. Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS).
State treatment line. Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: (800) 327-5050 or helplinema.org.
Emergency. Call 911 if a loved one is in immediate danger. Call or text 988 for an emotional crisis.
Stopping heavy daily drinking suddenly can cause seizures or delirium tremens, so every plan includes medically managed withdrawal. If your loved one has a seizure, hallucinations or severe confusion while stopping, call 911.
Our treatment navigation takes no payment from treatment centers, in Massachusetts or out of state.
Drinking is often one part of a wider picture. Massachusetts recorded 1,590 drug overdose deaths in 2024, an age-adjusted rate of 21.8 per 100,000, according to the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics (source).
In limited cases. Section 35 sets out a court process that can order treatment when strict legal conditions are met. It is a backstop, not a shortcut: a planned intervention is usually the faster and more lasting route, and a Massachusetts attorney can confirm how the law applies to your family.
The court route here is Section 35 (M.G.L. c. 123, s. 35). A spouse, blood relative, guardian, police officer, physician or court official may petition a court. If the judge finds a substance use disorder with likelihood of serious harm, commitment lasts up to 90 days. Laws change, so confirm the current rules with a Massachusetts attorney before you rely on them.
Mass.gov's statewide helpline resources list family supports including Learn to Cope, a peer-led network for families of people with addiction, and Allies in Recovery, an online learning program for families (source).
See the full steps, how long it takes and our cost guide.
The state agency that oversees substance use treatment is Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS). For treatment searches, Massachusetts offers Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: (800) 327-5050 or helplinema.org.
Mass.gov's statewide helpline resources list family supports including Learn to Cope, a peer-led network for families of people with addiction, and Allies in Recovery, an online learning program for families.
Yes. Our professional interventionists travel to families throughout Massachusetts, including Worcester, Springfield and Cape Cod. Preparation happens by phone or video, so you can start planning before anyone travels.
One confidential conversation with a professional interventionist. No pressure, no obligation. We'll help you find the right next step for your family.
