White Horse Recovery’s Center Ossipee Recovery Center
For many clients, especially those navigating early recovery, reliable transportation can be the difference between getting help and going without it, a reality that underscores the increased use of telehealth at White Horse Recovery.
“Telehealth allows people who might not seek treatment, because transportation is a huge barrier, to reach out for help,” said Eli Koester, MSW, LICSW, an outpatient counselor at White Horse Recovery. “Anybody who has a reliable internet connection and a safe and private space to meet can receive services through telehealth.”
Telehealth sessions are typically conducted by video, with expectations that clients participate from a safe, private space—not in shared living areas—and never while driving. White Horse also confirms the client’s location at the start of sessions to support emergency protocols if needed.
“We want people in front of a camera treating session like they were sitting in the office,” added Koester.
According to Matthew Plache, White Horse Executive Director, telehealth is particularly important for their clients.
“We service the northern part of New Hampshire, which is rural and spread out, so it’s important we do all we can to remove barriers to accessibility.”
Some of these barriers, noted Koester, are more complex. “Many people navigating recovery are in court systems and mandated to receive treatment,” he said. “However, many of them have lost their license, so being able to offer telehealth in those situations is very helpful.”
White Horse is also exploring expanded virtual programming, including the possibility of telehealth-based group services and intensive outpatient options, as community needs evolve.
“Telehealth isn’t a convenience add-on for us—it’s access to care,” said Plache. “When a person is ready for help, we want the door to be open that day, not weeks later because they can’t find a ride or can’t take the first step into an unfamiliar building.”
Founded in Center Ossipee, New Hampshire, White Horse Recovery has grown from a small organization into a leading nonprofit with 28 employees across four locations, providing both mental health and substance use disorder services.
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. White Horse Recovery offers services for those ready to start their journey to recovery. For more information, call 603-651-1441, Ext. 1.