History
As one of the first residential programs for the treatment of substance use disorder on Boston’s North Shore, Link House has more than 50 years of experience providing essential behavioral health care services in our community. Through the years, we've helped thousands of individuals address mental health challenges and substance use disorder, enabling them to lead happy, productive lives sustained by strong relationships.
1972
Link House was established by a group of Newburyport civic leaders and named for Newburyport resident John Ashford Link. Link House was the fourth residential recovery center to be licensed in the Commonwealth and continues to thrive today at its original location, more than 50 years since being incorporated.
1997
To expand the continuity of care and to support the growing community needs Link House, purchased a large multifamily house in Amesbury and established the Progress House, a residential program where men work on their recovery in a highly supportive and safe environment for up to two years.
2000
To meet the growing demand for long-term residential substance use treatment services for women in the Commonwealth, the Maris Center for Women was opened having received significant input and support from Sheriff Frank Cousins. The Maris Center for Women has been helping women or over two decades and continues to meet the growing needs of the community. The program has long-established relationships with the Middlesex Sheriff’s Department (and the Women in Transition Program), community stakeholders, and area treatment providers.
2020
Link House, opens Women’s Independent Sober Housing (WISH) which offers safe and affordable housing for 16 women in a supportive environment. WISH is designed for women who are ready for independent living, empowering them to lead hopeful and healthy lives.
2023
Christine Turner is appointed Executive Director, following Gary Gastman's successful eight-year tenure.
1992
In 1992 Link House, entered into a partnership with Housing Support, a non-profit organization created by former MA senator Nick Costello and former Newburyport Mayor Ed Molin, to operate the Elms. The Elms, located in Amesbury, is a longer-term residential program where men transition to independent living while maintaining a healthy program of recovery.
1998
Beginning in early 1998 until 2017, Link House, partnered with the owners of Moore’s Way, a sober, supportive, residential housing program located adjacent to the harbor of the famous fishing community of Gloucester. This was the only Link House program that provided coed services. The Link House provided financial oversight of funds provided by the Department of Public Health, as well as supported staff who provided case management services to the residents.
2019
In response to a severe shortage of local behavioral health providers accepting MassHealth, Link House opened the Center for Behavioral Health, expanding its services and continuum of care. CBH, located in Amesbury, treats a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Services include individual, group, and family therapy as well as psychopharmacology services.
2022
In response to the global and community mental health crisis for children and youth, Link House launched the Children And Teen Center for Help (CATCH). CATCH’s team of experienced, compassionate, and skilled providers works closely with children ages 5 to 18 and their families to understand the unique needs of every child and to nurture their mental well-being. CATCH helps young people address a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorder, and gender dysphoria.
1972
Link House was established by a group of Newburyport civic leaders and named for Newburyport resident John Ashford Link. Link House was the fourth residential recovery center to be licensed in the Commonwealth and continues to thrive today at its original location, more than 50 years since being incorporated.
1992
In 1992 Link House, entered into a partnership with Housing Support, a non-profit organization created by former MA senator Nick Costello and former Newburyport Mayor Ed Molin, to operate the Elms. The Elms, located in Amesbury, is a longer-term residential program where men transition to independent living while maintaining a healthy program of recovery.
1997
To expand the continuity of care and to support the growing community needs Link House, purchased a large multifamily house in Amesbury and established the Progress House, a residential program where men work on their recovery in a highly supportive and safe environment for up to two years.
1998
Beginning in early 1998 until 2017, Link House, partnered with the owners of Moore’s Way, a sober, supportive, residential housing program located adjacent to the harbor of the famous fishing community of Gloucester. This was the only Link House program that provided coed services. The Link House provided financial oversight of funds provided by the Department of Public Health, as well as supported staff who provided case management services to the residents.
2000
To meet the growing demand for long-term residential substance use treatment services for women in the Commonwealth, the Maris Center for Women was opened having received significant input and support from Sheriff Frank Cousins. The Maris Center for Women has been helping women or over two decades and continues to meet the growing needs of the community. The program has long-established relationships with the Middlesex Sheriff’s Department (and the Women’s in Transition Program), community stakes holders, and area treatment providers.
2019
In response to a severe shortage of local behavioral health providers accepting MassHealth, Link House opened the Center for Behavioral Health, expanding its services and continuum of care. CBH, located in Amesbury, treats a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Services include individual, group, and family therapy as well as psychopharmacology services.
2020
Link House, opens Women’s Independent Sober Housing (WISH) which offers safe and affordable housing for 16 women in a supportive environment. WISH is designed for women who are ready for independent living, empowering them to lead hopeful and healthy lives.
2022
In response to the global and community mental health crisis for children and youth, Link House launched the Children And Teen Center for Help (CATCH). CATCH’s team of experienced, compassionate, and skilled providers works closely with children ages 5 to 18 and their families to understand the unique needs of every child and to nurture their mental well-being. CATCH helps young people address a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorder, and gender dysphoria.
2023
Christine Turner is appointed Executive Director, following Gary Gastman's successful eight-year tenure.