Basic cell phone technology seen as recovery boost in conn. center.(Treatment Program Profile)

One of the largest nonprofit addiction treatment organizations in Connecticut thinks that a technology that some centers believe causes a distraction to clients will actually prove to become a lifeline to recovery for the individuals it serves.

This month, some clients in two residential programs operated by Shelton-based Recovery Network of Programs are receiving cell phones around the time of their second week in treatment. The main purpose of the phone distribution is to help clients establish a relationship with volunteers at a statewide recovery support organization before they exit treatment--an approach seen as increasing the likelihood that they will continue pursuing recovery support after leaving their structured and supervised residential program.

If officials at the treatment center realize their goal of improving client engagement in recovery support through earlier contact with volunteers at the Connecticut Community for Addiction …