For Tammy Loiselle, Executive Coordinator at White Horse Recovery, supporting those struggling with addiction and mental health challenges is more than a job—it’s a calling shaped by personal experience.

Loiselle, who joined White Horse Recovery after decades in home and medical care, brings a deeply personal understanding to her work. “Addiction runs in my family,” she said. “My father was an alcoholic, and my brother lost his life to alcoholism. I know firsthand how hard it is to find help—and how important it is to have someone who listens.”

White Horse Recovery, a nonprofit behavioral health center with locations in Ossipee, North Conway, Berlin and Littleton, offers comprehensive substance use disorder and mental health services for all ages. Loiselle’s journey from caretaker to advocate reflects the organization’s mission, which is to meet people where they are and provide support without judgment or financial barriers.

“I’ve seen people come in who are a complete wreck and, after going through our programs, thrive,” Loiselle said . “It’s so rewarding to see that transformation.”

She said White Horse Recovery’s team is known for its empathy and dedication. “Our counselors are some of the most phenomenal people I’ve met,” she added. “They’re here because they want to make a difference.”

Loiselle wants the community to know that help is available, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. “The hardest step is walking through the door,” she said, “but we’re here, and we care.”

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.

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.

“EMDR helps process harmful memories that often drive individuals to self-medicate,” he said. “It gives clients a foundation to build recovery, even before full abstinence.”

With a background spanning individual therapy, case management, in-patient psychiatric care, and community outreach, Koester cited a deep connection between trauma and substance use. “Most people with substance use disorder suffer from some form of trauma — whether emotional or physical,” he added.

Trained in EMDR in 2022, he noted the rigorous standards of certification, which included ongoing consultation and the requirement to practice with clients throughout the training process. “EMDR is gaining traction nationwide as one of the leading therapeutic treatments for trauma and PTSD,” he said.

Koester also employs Motivational Interviewing and the Stages of Change Model, evidence-based approaches that prioritize meeting individuals where they are in their recovery journey. “Motivational Interviewing is a philosophy that aligns the clinician with the client,” he said. “It ensures the therapeutic relationship remains strong and grounded, which is vital to sustained engagement and healing.”

As he settles into his role at White Horse Recovery, he cited “a simple goal.”
“I want to be a steady presence for clients when they’re ready to seek support,” he explained. “A trainer once said, ‘Be a sunroof.’ Most people don’t use it often, but they want to know it’s there. That’s how I see my role — being here when the window of opportunity opens.”

With locations in Ossipee, North Conway, Berlin, and Littleton, White Horse provides outpatient counseling, peer recovery support, wellness education, and prevention programming.

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.

White Horse Recovery Executive Director Matt Plache

Titled “Unshackled: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures,” the event will celebrate the power of recovery from addiction with powerful testimonies from individuals whose lives have been transformed through community-based supports like those offered at White Horse.

“This year’s theme, Unshackled, reflects what happens when people are given the tools and support to break free from addiction and rediscover their lives,” said White Horse Recovery Executive Director Matthew Plache. “Our annual benefit is not only a fundraiser — it’s a chance to gather as a community and reaffirm our belief that recovery is possible for everyone.”

Tickets are $100 per person, with proceeds supporting White Horse’s work. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for individuals and businesses.

With locations in Ossipee, North Conway, Berlin, and Littleton, White Horse provides outpatient counseling, peer recovery support, wellness education, and prevention programming.

Click here to learn more or purchase tickets for the 2025 Annual Benefit Event.

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.

White Horse Recovery Executive Director Matt Plache in front of the White House

“We have doubled the number of available services since last summer to try and meet the demand,” said Executive Director Matthew Plache. He attributed an appreciable portion of this demand to an “alarming increase” in methamphetamine use alongside the ongoing fentanyl crisis.

White Horse Recovery is also grappling with a shortage of licensed clinicians, with only two currently in training. “Licensing requirements in New Hampshire are particularly stringent compared to other states, which makes it difficult to recruit and retain qualified professionals,” added Plache.

Looking to both the short- and long-term future, he said the organization will continue to expand its community-driven approach. Beyond clinical services, White Horse Recovery features four Recovery Community Organizations located in Littleton, Berlin, North Conway, and Center Ossipee.

“We offer peer support, walk-in services, and group events like the recent Sober Super Bowl Party in Berlin,” said Plache, noting that they must also raise public awareness of their services and need for support. “We have gone under the radar for too long.”

He cited their Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) as one example of why White Horse Recovery is a strong investment. “The results are profound, with 80–90% of participants achieving successful recoveries,” he said. “Every dollar donated and every resource allocated to White Horse Recovery has a ripple effect, transforming lives and strengthening communities.”

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.