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A LOOK BACK …
Founded in 1969, Spectrum has evolved from a single site program
to a national multi-level system of care serving diverse populations
across the country. Here’s a look back at Spectrum’s journey
over the past thirty-eight years …
1969 - 1979
Establishing Roots
Originally known as "Challenge House," Spectrum was responsible
for establishing one of the first therapeutic communities in the
country for the treatment of substance abusers. The program opened
in Lawrence, Massachusetts in 1969 and was renamed "Spectrum
House" before moving to Westborough in 1979.
1980 - 1992
Building a Continuum of Care
Throughout the 1980s, Spectrum led the movement to develop a comprehensive
continuum of care in Massachusetts capable of providing seamless
services to individuals at various stages of recovery. Over time,
Spectrum added inpatient detoxification, transitional support services,
outpatient counseling, narcotic treatment, and mental health services.
In addition, Spectrum established outpatient treatment sites throughout
central and eastern Massachusetts, making services more readily
accessible to those in need. With 168 licensed beds at three levels
of care, Spectrum’s Westborough Treatment Campus is the largest
substance abuse treatment facility in New England.
1993 - Present
Growth & Diversification
In 1993, Spectrum entered a period of significant growth. Through
diversification and acquisition, Spectrum expanded into other states
while adding specialized programs for women, criminal offenders
and at-risk youth. In 1997, Spectrum changed its name to Spectrum
Health Systems to better represent the array of services being provided.
Today, Spectrum operates more than 55 programs in community and
institutional settings throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Georgia, Maine, Tennessee and Maryland. Services are performed under contracts
with a wide variety of private and public sector clients, including
federal, state and local governments, major insurance carriers,
employee assistance programs, private corporations, philanthropies
and the United Way.
Strategic Vision
At the core of Spectrum’s successful history has been its ability
and desire to keep pace with the growing research and information
available on the treatment of substance abuse and related disorders.
We have adapted to an ever-changing service delivery system while
remaining committed to our core principles. In the years ahead,
Spectrum will continue to further its mission by enhancing and expanding
its programs, and building better lives, one step at a time.
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