Aroostook Mental Health Center

The Driver Education & Evaluation Program (DEEP) is a comprehensive initiative designed to reduce the incidence of alcohol and drug-related motor vehicle crashes and lower the risk of re-offending for individuals charged with Operating Under the Influence (OUI). Offered in various locations throughout Maine—including Fort Kent, Madawaska, Caribou, Presque Isle, Houlton, Calais, Machias, and Ellsworth—DEEP delivers a range of supportive services such as education, individual and group counseling, intensive outpatient treatment (IOP), and specialized care for co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. The program also incorporates Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), formerly known as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), providing a whole-person approach that combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies.

Participants begin with an assessment using the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) model to determine the most appropriate level of care based on their readiness for change. This tailored approach allows counselors to create individualized treatment plans that support meaningful progress in recovery. Intensive group counseling is available for those needing more structured outpatient care, offering up to nine hours of group treatment weekly, making it a strong alternative to residential programs for individuals with work or family commitments.

DEEP also includes services through the Opioid Health Home (OHH), which supports MaineCare members and uninsured individuals with opioid use disorder. The OHH model uses a collaborative, team-based care structure that integrates medical treatment, counseling, care coordination, and peer recovery support to ensure comprehensive and compassionate care. Altogether, DEEP provides a holistic path to recovery by addressing substance use and its related challenges through accessible, community-based services.