Sweetser Expands Mental Health Access Across Maine
The nonprofit organization operates Hope and Healing centers providing substance use and mental health care to residents.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Substance Abuse
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Sweetser operates Hope and Healing centers in Brunswick, Lewiston, and Sanford that provide mental health and substance use treatment. These facilities offer services regardless of a patient's insurance status or ability to pay.
Why it matters
The model utilizes a certified community behavioral health clinic framework to coordinate therapy, medication management, and support services for patients through a single integrated team.
Certified community behavioral health clinics reported a 42 percent increase in clients after transitioning to this model, with half of those suffering from opioid use disorder receiving medication treatment. Additionally, 75 percent of clinics report improved outcomes when collaborating with local law enforcement.
The players
Sweetser
Sweetser is a Maine-based nonprofit organization that provides a wide range of mental health and substance use services to children, adults, and families.
Joey Rossignol
Joey Rossignol is a public figure who discussed the impact and operations of the Sweetser centers on the media program Total Coverage.
The details
The centers feature walk-in access and primary care screenings alongside mobile crisis response units. The Brunswick location further supports patients by providing an on-site pharmacy and a dedicated peer resource center.
Timeline
3.4 million people received treatment at CCBHCs during 2025.
Joey Rossignol discussed the operation of the centers on October 24, 2026.
Health Landscape
The expansion of these centers in Maine aligns with the national trajectory of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic model. This approach marks a departure from fragmented care by integrating therapy and medical services to address the rising national demand for addiction treatment.
Residents can access mental health and substance use services at the Brunswick, Lewiston, or Sanford centers without needing to worry about their insurance status. The availability of walk-in services and medication management provides immediate options for those seeking support.
The takeaway
Integrated behavioral health clinics are increasingly serving as a vital safety net by coordinating multiple levels of care under one roof. Patients should verify current walk-in hours at their local facility to ensure immediate access to required support services.
Further reading
For more information on available care in the area, visit the Maine Substance Abuse section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WMTW.
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