Центр реабилитации «Дом Тессы» в штате Мэн отметил первый год работы, приняв 118 женщин

Tessa’s House marks one year of treatment in Washington Knox County recovery center has helped 118 women since opening WASHINGTON, Maine (WABI) - A Knox County treatment center is marking one year of operation after helping 118 women in recovery from substance use disorders. Tessa’s House opened in May 2025. The 16-bed residential treatment center serves adult women 18 and older. Treatment and support Executive Director Ashlee Fae-Johnson said the center focuses on more than immediate recovery needs. “You know we’re not just looking at the typical things like triggers and coping skills, or safety planning, but we’re also looking at, ‘okay, how are we going to keep you successful once you leave?’” Johnson said. Johnson said the center works closely with the corrections system and receives referrals from other sources. “We have a very strong relationship with corrections, so we work a lot with OPTIONS liaisons. We get a lot of referrals from detox centers or methadone clinics,” Johnson said. Johnson said the number of women successfully completing the program has grown. “Probably over the last six months we’ve had a big increase in the amount of women that successfully graduate but also the amount of women who choose to stay longer which I think speaks positively of what we’re doing here,” Johnson said. Named for Tessa Lee McCue The nonprofit is named after Tessa Lee McCue, who died of a drug overdose in 2022. The center provides evidence-based treatment for women facing substance use disorders. Rachelle Bell is a substance use counselor at Tessa’s House. She is in long-term recovery. “The ripple effect is enormous even if you help just one person,” Bell said. Bell said the center’s rural setting is part of its approach. “We’re out in the country, so there isn’t the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They’re here and they can focus on themselves,” Bell said. A resident’s experience Candice is a resident at Tessa’s House who first heard about the center from a local detox center. “They brought up Tessa’s House and within seconds after she described the place, I was like I am ready. Let’s do this. I felt this amazing weight just lift off my shoulders,” Candice said. Candice said she has this advice for people currently battling addiction. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are more resources than you believe there are, and places like this are a Godsend. I thank God every day for bringing me through these doors,” Candice said. Upcoming fundraiser People can support the nonprofit this weekend by taking part in the Run for Women in Recovery. The event begins at 8 a.m. Sunday at Hampden Academy. Participants can take part in a four-mile run fundraiser to help women in recovery. A link to register is available at TessaLeeLibby.org. Copyright 2026 WABI. All rights reserved.