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Family Forward Program©

At Greylock Recovery, we know that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens within the strength of family and community. Recovery isn’t just about the individual; it’s about rebuilding connections, restoring trust, and empowering loved ones to be active partners in the journey toward lasting wellness.


Why does family matter so much? It’s simple: recovery isn’t just about the person in treatment—it’s about the entire support system. Families who understand SUD and how to support their loved ones during this journey play a key role in long-term success. But here’s the catch: often, that understanding is missing when treatment starts.



At Greylock Recovery, we understand that when a loved one enters residential treatment for mental health concerns or substance use disorder (SUD), families often feel left out of the treatment process. This can be one of the biggest concerns we hear. But here’s the truth: family involvement is crucial for successful recovery. It’s backed by years of research and real-life experiences. 

Studies show that family is one of the biggest reasons people enter treatment. And people do better in recovery when they feel loved and supported. On the flip side, unresolved family conflict can negatively impact mental health, finances, and overall happiness. 

 

 

Our Commitment to Family Education and Support

That’s why we created the Family Forward Program©—because recovery is stronger when families heal together. At Greylock Recovery, we are committed to equipping families with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to walk alongside their loved ones in recovery. 

Here’s how it works: Once the necessary HIPAA releases are in place and a counselor arranges for family involvement, our Family Intake Specialist will reach out to coordinate:

  • Supporting Recovery group sessions

  • Individual family meetings with a Family Recovery Specialist 

Throughout treatment, families will also receive weekly guided content, designed to mirror what their loved ones are learning in recovery. This creates a shared language and understanding, fostering open communication, deeper connection, and lasting healing—so that families don’t just witness recovery, they become an active part of it. 

Family-Focused Addiction Support Training (F.A.S.T)

We recognize that families are essential partners in the recovery journey. That’s why we offer Family Support Meetings open to anyone supporting a loved one through substance use or alcohol use recovery. These weekly sessions, available both in person and via Zoom, are led by a Greylock Family Support Specialist trained in the FAST© (Family and Support Training) Program. 

The FAST© Program is a comprehensive 26-module curriculum designed to empower families with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to navigate the complexities of recovery. It is guided by four key principles—S.L.O.W: Speak, Listen, Open Your Mind, and Work It—helping families develop effective communication, open-mindedness, and healthy engagement strategies to strengthen both their own well-being and their loved one’s recovery. 

Each session includes:

  • An educational discussion to provide insight into addiction and recovery

  • A shared space for open conversation where families can connect and support one another

  • A self-care practice designed to be easily incorporated into daily life 

At Greylock Recovery, we believe that healing happens together. Through these support meetings, we help families build the understanding, resilience, and tools needed to walk alongside their loved ones—without losing themselves in the process. 

Why It Matters

At Greylock Recovery, we know that recovery is not a solo journey—it’s a family journey. By staying engaged, learning about the recovery process, and discovering healthy ways to support your loved one, you become an integral part of their healing and long-term success. Families who are informed and involved experience stronger relationships, improved communication, and better outcomes for their loved ones in recovery. 

Our approach is holistic and connection-driven, recognizing that true healing happens within a supportive network. We’re here to empower, educate, and guide both you and your loved one toward a future built on understanding, resilience, and hope. 

 






The Family-Focused Addiction Support Training, FAST®, was developed by author and education professional, Maureen Cavanagh.

Maureen is an author and the founder of Magnolia New Beginnings, a non-profit 501c3 organization that provides access to online support groups for anyone struggling with a loved one’s addiction and provides access to recovery housing in Massachusetts.


Rebuilding Connections

Why is involving the family important?

It has long been said that addiction is a family disease because when one person is affected the entire family suffers.

Support System

Family members can provide emotional support and encouragement, which can be vital during tough times in recovery. Their presence often helps loved ones feel less isolated.

Understanding Triggers

Families can help identify triggers that may lead to relapse. By recognizing these, they can work together to create strategies to avoid or cope with them.

Healing Relationships

Addiction often strains family dynamics. Involving family in treatment can help mend these relationships, helping build healthier communication and understanding.

Shared Responsibility

Recovery is a team effort. When families are involved, they can take shared responsibility for creating a supportive environment, which can significantly impact long-term success.

Education and Awareness

Families can benefit from education about addiction, learning how to best support their loved one and recognize their own needs in the process.