Prior to his jail sentence, Matt had been drug free for five years with the help of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). When he was released, the real problems started. “I had lost everything,” he shares. “I was homeless. I lost hope. I started to have cravings and felt as though I wanted to start to use again. I was pretty down and out about the whole situation.”
With no place to go, Matt ended up at Shelterhouse, where he connected with a GCBHS peer recovery coach. This relationship was crucial to Matt because it gave him encouragement and guidance. Says Matt, “It was good to have someone to talk to. My recovery coach helped me find a job and she gave me rides to interviews.” Their relationship became a cornerstone of his recovery journey, offering him the support he needed to get through a difficult time.
Matt was one of the first clients to enter the Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) program at Shelterhouse. According to Matt, the location was another important factor in his recovery. “Having it at Shelterhouse is convenient. I could walk next door and not have to worry about transportation. If I didn't have the program and the help that I did, I don't think I would be where I am at right now.”
“You have to put in effort for the program to work,” he explained, noting the importance of making positive changes in his life. “You have to change people, places, and things. Make the right choices and find the right people to hang out with. I had to work for what I had.” His commitment to change and resilience eventually led him to a stable job as a welder.
"You have to put in effort for the program to work."
Matt continues with his OTP appointments at Shelterhouse. When on-site, he sees the doctor, a counselor, and he receives medication from the dispensary. He appreciates the consistency of care the staff provides, especially the nurses and Dr. Amy Seese, who is the doctor he sees on his visits. “She’s really nice. I like her,” he says, emphasizing the supportive environment created by the team.
Reflecting on his progress, Matt expressed, “It really helped me get back on my feet and strive to get my life together. If I can do it, anyone can do it. I've had to put my nose down and make the best choices for myself.”
