NERC and Spectrum Employee Spotlight: Marybeth Adams

The path to working in addiction recovery can begin with an experience that reveals how deeply substance misuse and mental health are intertwined. For Marybeth Adams, that realization came early in her career while working as a social worker in corrections.

Today, Marybeth is the Executive Director of Inpatient Services at New England Recovery Center (NERC) and Spectrum, supporting programs across multiple sites while helping ensure patients receive compassionate, clinically grounded care from the moment they enter treatment. Drawing on decades of experience in behavioral health and addiction recovery, she remains focused on helping people feel safe and supported as they begin the journey toward healing.

A Career Built on Understanding the Roots of Addiction

Marybeth’s work in addiction recovery began shortly after graduating from Providence College, when she accepted a position as a social worker at the Worcester County House of Correction. There, she noticed a pattern among many of the individuals with whom she worked.

“People struggling with substance misuse were also facing mental health challenges that stemmed from trauma or loss,” said Adams. “It became clear that they were coping with deeper issues that needed care and understanding.”

Seeing firsthand how treatment and support could make a difference inspired Marybeth to continue working in the field. Over time, her career evolved through a variety of roles within Spectrum programs, including facilitating groups for the organization’s intimate partner abuse education program and supervising the driver alcohol education program while completing her master’s degree.  Eventually, she transitioned fully into clinical work within Spectrum’s outpatient services before helping to open New England Recovery Center more than a decade ago.

Creating a Safe and Compassionate Environment for Recovery

As Executive Director of Inpatient Services at NERC, Marybeth oversees operations across the NERC campus and several Spectrum inpatient programs. While her responsibilities span administration, clinical leadership, and program oversight, her philosophy remains rooted in the patient experience.

“At the heart of recovery is connection,” said Marybeth. “People need to feel safe and free from judgment when they enter treatment.”

She believes the environment patients encounter during treatment can make a profound difference in how they engage with addiction recovery. At NERC and Spectrum, that environment extends beyond clinical care to encompass every aspect of the patient experience, from the support of recovery specialists and clinicians to the facility’s welcoming atmosphere.

That sense of connection can help patients begin practicing new coping skills and healthier routines while in treatment. Inpatient care can serve as an important first step in building a foundation for long-term recovery.

“We look at treatment as an opportunity to practice a new way of living,” said Adams. “If people can begin learning those skills here, they can carry them forward into the next stage of their recovery journey.”

Finding Motivation in Recovery Success Stories

After decades in the field, what continues to motivate Marybeth most is the success stories she sees every day.

“There’s still a stigma around addiction and treatment,” said Marybeth. “Some people believe recovery isn’t possible or that people will always cycle in and out of treatment.”

But at NERC and Spectrum, she regularly hears from former patients who have gone on to rebuild their lives in recovery. Some call to share milestones; others return to the center to work in recovery support roles themselves.

Those stories speak to the impact that compassionate treatment and support can have.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we were able to be a part of someone’s recovery journey.”

A Collaborative, Whole-Person Approach to Care

Marybeth believes one of the key strengths of Spectrum’s approach to treatment is its emphasis on collaboration and individualized care.

“Every person who walks through the door has a unique story and unique needs,” said Adams. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction recovery.”

Treatment at NERC incorporates medical care, clinical therapy, peer support, and family involvement when appropriate. Recognizing the role that family dynamics can play in recovery, Spectrum also offers programs that help loved ones better understand addiction and how to support someone in treatment.

“If someone returns to the same environment without support or education, it can make recovery more difficult,” said Marybeth. “Helping families heal and learn alongside their loved ones can make a real difference.”

For Those Considering Addiction Treatment

For individuals considering treatment or for families trying to help someone they love, Marybeth emphasizes that reaching out for help can be the hardest but most important step.

“If you’re considering treatment, it usually means something significant has happened in your life that’s led you to realize you need support,” said Adams. “Making that first phone call can feel overwhelming, but it’s the first step toward something better. Once you walk through the doors, many people feel an immediate sense of relief that they’re finally doing something positive for themselves.”  For families, connecting with treatment providers can also help demystify the recovery process and provide guidance on supporting a loved one.

“You’re not alone in trying to figure this out,” said Marybeth. “There are people who can help guide you every step of the way.”

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or co-occurring disorders, call the New England Recovery Center today at 1-877-MyRehab.