Heroin & Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at Shine
Clinically reviewed by Joe Papa, LICSW · Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
The street drug supply has changed. Fentanyl is now in almost everything, and the risk is higher than it has ever been. If you or someone you love is using, now is the time to call. We're here, without judgment, 24/7. Serving Saugus, Lynn, Revere, Malden, Chelsea, and the greater North Shore.
Confidential. No pressure. We'll explain your options clearly.
The Street Drug Supply Has Changed, And the Stakes Are Higher Than Ever
What used to be heroin is now almost always fentanyl. And fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent.
For decades, heroin was the primary opioid driving overdose deaths in Massachusetts. That has changed dramatically. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, now dominates the street drug supply. It is found not just in products sold as heroin, but increasingly in counterfeit pills, cocaine, and other substances, often without the user's knowledge.
This is not a moral judgment. It is a medical reality. The risk of a fatal overdose from a single use has never been higher, and the margin for error has never been smaller. If you or someone you love is using heroin, fentanyl, or any opioid, getting help now is not an overreaction. It is the right decision.
At Shine Wellness & Recovery in Saugus, we have helped hundreds of individuals across Lynn, Revere, Malden, Chelsea, and the greater North Shore navigate opioid addiction and build lasting recovery. We know how hard this is. We also know it is possible.
Fentanyl is now in almost everything
In Massachusetts, fentanyl was present in 92% of opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023-2024. Using anything from the street supply carries a risk of fentanyl exposure, regardless of what it was sold as.
You may need detox first
Opioid withdrawal is medically uncomfortable but rarely life-threatening. We assess every client and coordinate medical detox with trusted partners when clinically necessary before beginning outpatient treatment.
MAT dramatically reduces overdose risk
Medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone) and Vivitrol are among the most effective tools available for opioid addiction. Our psychiatric nurse practitioner can prescribe and manage MAT as part of your treatment plan.
Heroin & Fentanyl in Massachusetts
The crisis is real, and treatment works.
of opioid-related overdose deaths in Massachusetts involved fentanyl between July 2023 and June 2024
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 2024
opioid-related overdose deaths in Massachusetts in 2025, the first time under 1,000 since 2013, down nearly 60% from the 2022 record high of 2,364
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 2025
decrease in opioid overdose deaths in Essex County in 2023, the largest county-level decline in Massachusetts that year. Treatment is working.
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 2024
These numbers reflect real progress, and real loss. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, a community. Residents of Saugus, Lynn, Revere, Malden, Chelsea, and across the North Shore have felt this crisis firsthand. At Shine, we are part of the response, one person at a time.
How We Treat Heroin & Fentanyl Addiction at Shine
A medically supervised, trauma-informed approach built around your specific needs.
Treatment for heroin and fentanyl addiction at Shine begins with a thorough clinical assessment by our psychiatric nurse practitioner, under the oversight of our medical director. We assess your history, your level of use, your physical health, and your goals, then build a treatment plan designed specifically for you.
Detox Coordination
Many people need a medically supervised detox before beginning outpatient treatment. Our team evaluates your readiness and, when detox is needed, coordinates a direct referral to a trusted detox partner. We stay in contact throughout and have your PHP or IOP placement ready when you are stable.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT is one of the most evidence-based tools available for opioid addiction. Our psychiatric nurse practitioner can prescribe and manage buprenorphine (Suboxone), Sublocade (monthly injectable buprenorphine), and Vivitrol (monthly naltrexone injection) as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT identifies and changes the thought patterns and behaviors that drive opioid use, building practical skills for navigating triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT addresses the emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal challenges that often underlie opioid addiction, particularly for individuals with trauma histories.
Trauma-Informed Care
Many people struggling with heroin or fentanyl addiction have experienced significant trauma. Every aspect of care at Shine is delivered through a trauma-informed lens, creating a safe, consistent, non-judgmental environment from day one.
Holistic Programming
On-site yoga, meditation, and mindfulness help rebuild the mind-body connection and provide healthy tools for managing the anxiety, insomnia, and emotional dysregulation that are common in early opioid recovery.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction
MAT is not a shortcut. It is one of the most effective tools in addiction medicine, and we offer it onsite.
Research consistently shows that MAT reduces opioid overdose deaths, improves treatment retention, and supports long-term recovery outcomes. At Shine, MAT is available as part of our PHP, IOP, and Outpatient programs, always paired with therapy, case management, and holistic programming.
Buprenorphine / Suboxone
A daily sublingual film or tablet that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. First-line treatment for opioid use disorder, prescribed and managed by our psychiatric NP.
Sublocade
A once-monthly injectable form of buprenorphine that eliminates daily dosing and supports consistent medication levels throughout the month. Administered onsite.
Vivitrol
A once-monthly naltrexone injection that blocks the effects of opioids. Requires full opioid detoxification before initiation. Non-addictive and effective for motivated clients committed to abstinence.
Methadone is not offered onsite at Shine. If methadone is the right option for your situation, we will provide a direct referral to a trusted, licensed methadone provider and can offer concurrent outpatient therapy and support alongside your methadone treatment.
Which Program Is Right for You?
Heroin and fentanyl addiction treatment at Shine is available at three levels of outpatient care, serving Saugus, Lynn, Revere, Malden, Chelsea, and surrounding communities.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
6 hours per day, 5 days per week. Recommended for individuals stepping down from medical detox or inpatient care, or those who need a high level of structured daily support.
View treatment detailsIntensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
3 hours per day, 3 to 5 days per week with morning and evening options. For people managing work, school, or family responsibilities alongside treatment.
View treatment detailsOutpatient Program (OP)
Clinically tailored scheduling, typically once per week, for individuals in stable recovery who need continued clinical support and medication management.
View treatment detailsMost Insurance Covers Heroin & Fentanyl Addiction Treatment.
We'll reach out to your insurance company, explain exactly what's covered, and walk you through any costs before you ever start treatment. No guessing, no hidden bills , just clear answers up front.
We accept most major insurance plans.
Joe Papa is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and member of the Shine Wellness & Recovery clinical team. All clinical content on this site is reviewed by Joe to ensure accuracy and alignment with current evidence-based practice standards in addiction treatment and behavioral health.
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