Center Building – Institute of Living

200 Retreat Avenue Hartford, CT 06102
DetoxInpatientOutpatient
The Institute of Living CT 6102

About Center Building – Institute of Living

The Institute of Living in Hartford, Connecticut, is one of the oldest mental health facilities in the United States. It was founded in 1882 and has been part of Hartford Hospital since 1994. They provide treatment for behavioral health and substance use disorders. The clinic works with children, adolescents and adults through services such as inpatient and outpatient programs. Some of their treatment specialties include peripartum mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol addiction, panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.

The Institute accepts a variety of insurance plans including Medicaid, Medicare and many commercial insurance providers. When you’re admitted to the facility you’re assigned a case coordinator who assists with discharge planning.

Staff here take a humanistic approach to treatment and aim to ensure that you play an active role in the treatment and recovery process. They pride themselves on maintaining a diverse and accepting environment. They offer gender affirming care and also understand how things like racial trauma can impact your recovery journey. Once you’ve successfully completed your program you may have the option to become a Recovery Support Specialist. This allows you to assist other clients through the program.

Some reviews indicate negative experiences with staff members. Others noted that their time at The Institute was successful, with one former client sharing that they do great work.

Latest Reviews

Donald Hebert
1 week ago on Google
1
Worst place to get help for your kid made everything worse
Dave
2 weeks ago on Google
5
The BEST day treatment experience I ve ever had!!! I m in my 50 s and I ve dealt with depression since I was 13. I have tried many different places for my depression and ptsd and they are the BEST!!!It is very possible that the negative reviews might be from court ordered people. Give the place a chance. I swear by the day treatment! Tracey Garbarino who runs it, she has dedicated her life to help others and she has made sure they have the absolute BEST to treat you!!!I had an Excellent, Excellent Clinician named Trista. I had groups with all the other clinicians as well. All the staff there are Truly, Amazing! Life will get better for you if you go there! I really hope you feel better!!!
Beth Muir
2 weeks ago on Google
1
DO NOT SEND A LOVED ONE TO THIS PLACE! My only child went here. I begged the "social worker" (useless) to place him in a rehabilitation facility. She called me and told me he was coming home, that's where he lives and if you don't like it you can evict him. Yes, that is what the horrendous lady told me. He came home on 9/3. He died on 9/7. They do what they want. They do not listen to the family. I would never send anyone here. Please send your loved one to any other place in the world!
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Rehab Score

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Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full MethodologyCaret icon
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6.7 / 10

Location

Accepted Insurance

Center Building – Institute of Living works with several private insurance providers and also accepts private payments when possible, please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

outpatient iconOutpatient
Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.
inpatient iconInpatient
Inpatient rehab offers intensive treatment for clients who are transitioning out of detox, in early recovery, and at risk of relapse. Housing and meals are provided, and most facilities offer round-the-clock clinical care. Clients engage in multiple counseling and therapy sessions each week, along with extensive recovery-focused life skills training. Many inpatient drug rehab programs include evidence-based complementary therapies, such as meditation, massage, creative arts therapy, nutrition therapy, and experiential therapy.
intensive-outpatient iconIntensive Outpatient
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.
partial-hospitalization iconPartial Hospitalization Program
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a short-term form of intensive rehab, usually for those with acute symptoms that are hard to manage but don’t require 24-hour care. PHPs have structured programming (i.e. individual and/or group therapy), and usually meet 3-5 days a week for around 6 hours (i.e. 9am-3m). Some PHPs are residential (patients sleep on site) and some are not, so patients sleep at home. PHPs can last from 1-6 months, and some offer transportation and meals.
medically-assisted-detox iconMedically Assisted Detox
Typically seen as a first step in the recovery process, medically assisted detox generally takes place in an inpatient setting under the 24/7 supervision of licensed medical professionals. It is considered the safest way to remove addictive drugs from your body. The length of a medical detox program is individualized, but it often takes around 5-7 days.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

Drug rehab in Connecticut provides the professional support that is often necessary to break free from drug dependency. With proper treatment, individuals can make changes that restore balance and health to their lives and achieve long-term recovery.

Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Programs

adult-program thumbnail image
Adult Program
Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.
young-adult-program thumbnail image
Young Adult Program
Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.
lgbtq-program thumbnail image
LGBTQ Program
Recovery is most successful when clients feel accepted and validated by their peers and treatment providers. Facilities that offer LGBTQ-inclusive programming are committed to creating a safe space where everyone can grow and recover without fear of judgment or discrimination. They will have dedicated policies in place to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters free expression.
military-program thumbnail image
Military Program
Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment designed to help people understand and ultimately affect the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT is often used for individuals who struggle with self-harm behaviors, such as self-mutilation (cutting) and suicidal thoughts, urges, or attempts. It has been proven clinically effective for those who struggle with out-of-control emotions and mental health illnesses like Borderline Personality Disorder.

equine-therapy iconEquine Therapy

Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Trauma therapy addresses traumatic incidents from a client's past that are likely affecting their present-day experience. Trauma is often one of the primary triggers and potential causes of addiction, and can stem from child sexual abuse, domestic violence, having a parent with a mental illness, losing one or both parents at a young age, teenage or adult sexual assault, or any number of other factors. The purpose of trauma therapy is to allow a patient to process trauma and move through and past it, with the help of trained and compassionate mental health professionals.

During couples therapy in Connecticut, you will learn skills such as problem solving, conflict resolution, and anger management. The goal is to develop techniques that will help you successfully navigate relationship challenges.

Family therapy sessions work to strengthen the family unit by addressing addiction related conflicts and fostering support between family members. Your therapist guides family members in developing effective communication strategies and creating an environment that aids in your loved one's recovery.

Recreational therapy is a dynamic approach to addiction recovery in Connecticut. It integrates activities like music therapy, team sports, and creative writing as a therapeutic outlet to express your emotions and feelings. These activities also improve your physical health and help you develop new skills that support a sober lifestyle.

Amenities

  • home-setting iconResidential Setting
  • private-room iconPrivate Rooms

Accreditations

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 2649

Contact Information

Phone icon (860) 545-7000
Building icon

200 Retreat Avenue
Hartford, CT 06102

Fact checked and written by:
Camille Moore, MA
Edited by:
Kerry Nenn, BSW

Reviews of Center Building – Institute of Living

2.2/5 (32 reviews)
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Overall Experience
Date Submitted
Reviewer

Google Reviews

2.2 (32 reviews)
Donald Hebert
1 week ago
1

Worst place to get help for your kid made everything worse

Dave
2 weeks ago
5

The BEST day treatment experience I ve ever had!!! I m in my 50 s and I ve dealt with depression since I was 13. I have tried many different places for my depression and ptsd and they are the BEST!!!It is very possible that the negative reviews might be from court ordered people. Give the place a chance. I swear by the day treatment! Tracey Garbarino who runs it, she has dedicated her life to help others and she has made sure they have the absolute BEST to treat you!!!I had an Excellent, Excellent Clinician named Trista. I had groups with all the other clinicians as well. All the staff there are Truly, Amazing! Life will get better for you if you go there! I really hope you feel better!!!

Beth Muir
2 weeks ago
1

DO NOT SEND A LOVED ONE TO THIS PLACE! My only child went here. I begged the "social worker" (useless) to place him in a rehabilitation facility. She called me and told me he was coming home, that's where he lives and if you don't like it you can evict him. Yes, that is what the horrendous lady told me. He came home on 9/3. He died on 9/7. They do what they want. They do not listen to the family. I would never send anyone here. Please send your loved one to any other place in the world!

Dan Lewin
4 weeks ago
5

This place is amazing! I have met many many clinicians in my search for proper mental health treatment and every single one at IOL are absolutely top notch. All the people who work here are kind compassionate and very intelligent. The life skills they teach are truly transformative.

Katiria Perry
1 month ago
1

Lexi Torres
2 months ago
1

I started as a patient in May 2020 until June 2024. Outpatient medication management. The front desk never answered and hardly called back. They wouldn t give me a 90 day supply of my meds even though I ve been on the same regimen since I began seeing them. I had to FIGHT to get my meds refilled and even went into withdrawal because either the message wasn t received by the physician or they just wouldn t call back. I recently moved out of state and found another psychiatrist that actually treats me like a human and answers me when I need them. I do not recommend this facility in any sense.

Matt D
2 months ago
1

I was a patient there for 2 weeks. It was like being in a nursing home. Total waste of my time. The nursing staff were mostly fine my psychiatrist had the personality of sad wallpaper. I CANNOT recommend

Judy Waldron
2 months ago
1

Do not recommend, my 15 year went to the institute of living with hopes of getting past her depression anxiety, which was causing difficulties to have a appetite. we were told family therapy sessions would take place which never happened, she went there with being in my primary custody she left there with her father after not not wanting to see him for 2 years before going to this place. but we were in the process of getting him back into her life. ( family sessions) I got to see my daughter for one day before Kendra had spoken with her and put the idea of sexual abuse in her head this conclusion was made from watching her ??? Not only that but everytime I gave a valid explanation for anything that was said she would immediately say what your daughter said is contradicting that, my daughter was and is obsessed with a older boy they knew that! my daughter was also extremely under weight, dehydrated and had just tried to harm herself and not thinking right!. A lot of the time when not responding with the contradiction I also got a weird disbelief or confused humming sound from her which was concerning. False memories were definitely created from whatever was said to her. My daughter went there underweight due to her disorder and not thinking logically, they made her worse mentally!! she gained weight while she was there, but now her mental state is still very messed up. They never checked in to make sure her safety plan with her father was actually in place with a IOP before discharging like they said they did that she was supposed to be in. They failed my daughter on so many levels and made a mess of my family. I nor my family have seen my daughter in almost 2 months, she was supposed to leave there finally having both her father and I in her life only to leave and be with one biological parent again. if you want your family to stay together and your child to be healthy and happy STAY AWAY from this place please

Enough
6 months ago
4

I had a decent experience. Some issues but a few of the people are why my review is on the high side. Beau, Tim, and Rachel were absolutely phenomenal! Constance and Dr. R were also gems and made my experience very valuable!

Laura
8 months ago
1

Discharge papers incorrect. Staff Play games with mind also witchcraft patients etc.Dr Sugarman cool tuff but caring

Melody Sunflower (Sunflower)
8 months ago
1

I trusted the IOL to help with my 11 year old daughter who was struggling with suicidal thoughts. I was told great things and was hopeful this would help her. I went to visit her every night and what I witnessed was absolutely appalling. The majority of the staff had no compassion (but there was one nice nurse), they were unable or just refused to accommodate my daughter's sensory needs with food, even after their own dietician put in special orders for her meals. My daughter didn't have even a single sip of water during the 4 days she was there. But more importantly, the trauma my daughter witnessed there will haunt her for the rest of her life. She needs more therapy now than she ever needed prior to attending the IOL. Every single night while I was there for visitation, we had to plug our ears to try to drown out the screams of another child who was being physically restrained for one reason or another. Every night my daughter cried because she was scared that she was next. On the fourth night, during my visitation, we were witnessing the most traumatic experience of them all. A little girl (this unit is only 10-13 year olds) was being forced to the ground and had FIVE adults on top of her. She was screaming for her life for nearly the entire 2 hours of visitation. We could not escape it, but even worse, it was causing my daughter to panic.. my daughter was screaming and crying saying "please leave her alone!" As this time the cries were coming from one of her friends. As the little girl's screams intensified, so did my daughter's.. until my daughter is screaming bloody murder, through tears, and I am physically holding her back because she thinks they are killing this girl and she wants to go save her... My daughter then grabs her chest and says she can't breathe.. I have to scream for a nurse to come help my daughter.. I'm crying, the nurse is crying.. the little girl's screams fade to nothing, as they had injected her with a sedative, but my 11 year old child thought that they had killed her. The emotional trauma is absolutely unreal. The one nice nurse took me in the hall and told me through tears eyes that my child is experiencing so much trauma there that she's not getting any help while being there and she encouraged me to sign her out of the program. I said that I wanted to take her home immediately and she started the paperwork. They then sent two other nurses and a doctor to try to convince me to let her stay another night. I refused. That doctor had to call the supervisor and chief of staff to discuss the situation. She returned 20 minutes later stating that the COS and supervisors all agreed that my daughter should be discharged and sent home with me. The nice nurse appeared again to help us pack our things and walk us out. She again had tears in her eyes and said that she wished she could send all of the kids home that were there because no one should be experiencing this. We left and will never go back.

Emily Strout
1 year ago
5

I never felt heard until I went to HIOL for children under 18. I found my people, and I honestly didn t want to leave. But, now that I m home, it s very different and harder to find someone to hear me, again.

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