Question 1

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

Northern Erie Clinical Services is located in Buffalo, NY at 2005 Sheridan Drive, 14223. Our facility serves individuals throughout New York State and the surrounding areas. We're committed to providing accessible, high-quality treatment in a supportive environment. For detailed directions, parking information, or if you need help with transportation arrangements, please contact us and our admissions team will assist you.

Question 2

How do I start treatment or get admitted?

Accepted Answer

Starting treatment at Northern Erie Clinical Services is simple and confidential. First, call our 24/7 helpline at +1 (855) 643-5408 to speak with an admissions specialist. We'll conduct a brief, confidential assessment to understand your needs, verify your insurance coverage, answer all your questions, and schedule your admission date. The entire process typically takes 24-48 hours from first contact to admission, though we can expedite for urgent situations. Don't wait - reaching out is the hardest and most important step. Our compassionate team is here to help you begin your recovery journey. Call +1 (855) 643-5408 now for immediate, confidential assistance.

Question 3

Why is fentanyl so dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Fentanyl is 50-100 times more potent than morphine, meaning a tiny amount can cause overdose. Illicit fentanyl is now found in many street drugs—often without the user's knowledge—making any drug use extremely risky. Even experienced users can overdose because they can't gauge the dose. At Northern Erie Clinical Services, we understand the unique challenges of the current opioid crisis. Our treatment programs address fentanyl addiction with medical detox, MAT options, and comprehensive therapy. If you're using any street drugs, please seek help immediately—call +1 (855) 643-5408.

Question 4

What is a sponsor and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A sponsor is someone further along in recovery who guides you through the 12 steps, shares their experience, and provides accountability. While not mandatory, having a sponsor significantly improves recovery outcomes. At Northern Erie Clinical Services, we help you understand the sponsorship process and encourage building connections with the recovery community during treatment. After discharge, we'll help you identify meetings where you can find potential sponsors. A good sponsor provides wisdom, accountability, and proof that long-term recovery is possible.

Question 5

How effective is CBT for addiction?

Accepted Answer

CBT is one of the most thoroughly researched and effective treatments for addiction. Studies show that CBT: reduces substance use and relapse rates, teaches skills that remain effective long after treatment ends, works well for various substances (alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, opioids), and is especially effective when combined with other treatments like medication or 12-step programs. At Northern Erie Clinical Services, CBT is a core component of our evidence-based treatment approach. The skills you learn become tools you'll use throughout your recovery journey.

Question 6

What insurance do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Northern Erie Clinical Services accepts Cash or self-payment, Medicaid, Private health insurance, and more. Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend calling +1 (855) 643-5408 for a free insurance verification. Our admissions team will contact your insurer, explain your benefits, and help you understand what's covered. Many plans cover substantial portions of addiction treatment under mental health parity laws. Don't assume you can't afford treatment—let us check your benefits first.

Question 7

How do I support without enabling?

Accepted Answer

The line between supporting and enabling can be blurry. Enabling includes: giving money that might be used for substances, making excuses for their behavior, bailing them out of consequences, or avoiding honest conversations. Supporting means: expressing love while maintaining boundaries, refusing to participate in addictive behavior, letting natural consequences occur, and encouraging treatment. At Northern Erie Clinical Services, our family program teaches these distinctions. We recommend Al-Anon or Nar-Anon meetings for families—you need support too. Recovery works best when the whole family heals together.

Question 8

Will treatment affect my criminal record?

Accepted Answer

Treatment itself doesn't create criminal records—it's healthcare, not criminal justice involvement. Your treatment records are protected by strict federal confidentiality laws (42 CFR Part 2) and generally cannot be shared with law enforcement. In some cases, successful treatment completion can positively influence pending legal matters—judges and prosecutors often view treatment favorably. Drug court programs specifically connect treatment with reduced charges. At Northern Erie Clinical Services, we can coordinate with your legal team when appropriate and with your consent. Treatment is more likely to help your legal situation than hurt it.

Question 9

Can I use my phone during treatment?

Accepted Answer

Phone policies at Northern Erie Clinical Services depend on the program level and your stage of treatment. Residential programs typically restrict phone use, especially in early treatment, to help you focus on recovery without digital distractions. Scheduled call times are usually provided for contact with family. As you progress, privileges often increase. Outpatient programs allow more flexibility since you live at home. The goal isn't punishment—it's minimizing distractions during a critical time. We'll explain specific policies during admission. Many people find the digital detox refreshing and beneficial.

Question 10

Do you have programs for veterans?

Accepted Answer

Many facilities offer specialized programming for veterans recognizing military-specific challenges: combat trauma and PTSD, military sexual trauma, moral injury, transition difficulties, and military culture. Treatment may include: trauma-informed care from staff who understand military experience, veteran peer support groups, assistance navigating VA benefits, and specialized PTSD treatment. At Northern Erie Clinical Services, we respect veterans' service while addressing addiction and mental health concerns. We can help you understand what VA benefits you may be entitled to and coordinate with VA services when appropriate. Call +1 (855) 643-5408 to discuss veteran-specific options.

Type of Care	Substance use treatment
Service Settings	Outpatient, Outpatient methadone/buprenorphine or naltrexone treatment, Regular outpatient treatment
Medications Offered	Buprenorphine used in Treatment, Naltrexone used in Treatment

Northern Erie Clinical Services

Accepted Payment Methods

CAO/Drug Abuse Research and Trt Prog

Unity House

Casa Di Vita

Beacon Center