Services
D&A Assessments & Treatment Referrals
For Berks County residents who do not have private health insurance, or who have publicly funded health care coverage (i.e. Medicaid), the TASC Central Intake Unit (CIU) provides substance abuse clinical evaluations to determine the appropriate treatment recommendation. Operating on a walk-in, first come, first serve basis, TASC opens at 8:00 AM, Monday through Friday, to assist individuals in accessing detoxification, outpatient, or residential substance abuse treatment services.
When reporting to TASC, individuals are required to provide proof of Berks County residence, as well as standard identification. Due to the high volume of people seeking treatment services, individuals in need of clinical assessments are encouraged to report to TASC as early as possible. On a monthly basis, the TASC Central Intake Unit will provide assistance to over 500 individuals seeking drug and alcohol treatment. For more information, please call or email Karen Ferguson, M.Ed. at: 610-988-0683 or kferguson@berkstasc.org.
Recovery Support Services
Recognizing the difficulties facing individuals in the early stages of recovery from addiction, Recovery Support Services is a peer-to-peer program designed to remove obstacles and assist individuals in remaining drug and alcohol free. Comprised of staff members who have “been there” and are in recovery themselves, TASC’s Certified Recovery Support Specialists share their experience, strength, and hope in helping individuals attain their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing, as well providing assistance with employment, literacy, transportation, and access to counseling and support groups. TASC offers this service free of charge for anyone with a sincere desire to stay clean and sober.
For additional information, please contact Steve Mara at 484-877-6337 or smara@berkstasc.org.
Blended Mental Health Case Management
Although primarily known as a drug and alcohol agency, for the past 15 years TASC has provided mental health case management services for hundreds of individuals throughout Berks County. Supported by the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) and the Berks County MH/DD program, TASC’s mental health case management is a free service that supports individuals who are struggling to attain their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing as they recover from mental illness. In addition, case managers listen, support, coach, and encourage individuals as they strive for healthier and more rewarding lifestyles.
All referrals to TASC’s mental health case management unit must be generated by a mental health professional, such as a therapist, social worker, or physician. Eligibility requirements include the following:
• Berks County resident
• 18 years of age or older
• Prior Treatment History
For additional information, please contact Dave Frey at 610-816-4728 or dfrey@berkstasc.org.
Urinalysis Testing
Recognizing the connection between illicit drug use and crime, TASC has provided confidential urinalysis drug testing as a standard service to the Court of Common Pleas since the early 1980s. Partnering with Redwood Toxicology, TASC observes each individual who submits a specimen and, consistent with recognized chain of custody procedures, collects, seals, packages, and ships all specimens to Redwood via FedEx overnight delivery. Results are generally available within 48 hours on Redwood’s web-based ToxAccess database system, of which all referral sources are provided 24/7 access. Referral sources are also afforded a number of reports that can be generated at any time according to a number of preferences.
Through Redwood Toxicology, TASC can test for any number of substances; however, the default panel for most individuals screens for 6 substances, namely Amphetamine/Methamphetamine, Benzodiazepines, Cocaine, Opiates, Oxycodone, and THC. Specialty tests are also available that screen for K2/Synthetic Marijuana, EtG (alcohol testing), PCP, Buprenorphine (Suboxone), and Tricyclic Antidepressants.
Individuals referred by the Berks County Adult Probation & Parole Office, Berks County Pre-Trial Services, and Berks County Children and Youth Services are required to remit a $5.00 co-pay prior to submitting a specimen.
For all specimens, Redwood employs laboratory enzyme immunoassay (EIA) drug testing technology. Confirmation testing, if required by the referral source, is conducted through Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), for which individuals pay $25.00 in advance.
MA Jail Treatment Program
To alleviate jail overcrowding, especially for inmates who are incarcerated for alcohol or drug-related crimes or probation/parole violations, TASC facilitates the MA Jail Pilot Program that offers long-term substance abuse treatment in lieu of jail time.
In conjunction with the Berks County Assistance Office (CAO), the medical and treatment departments at the Berks County Jail System (BCJS), the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA), and the Berks County Adult Probation & Parole Office, TASC conducts clinical assessments, makes treatment referrals, verifies that medical benefits are activated, and coordinates the jail release and treatment admission for each respective inmate referred to this program.
Designed as an alternative to incarceration, TASC admits up to 20 inmates each month to long-term treatment as part of this program.
For more information, please contact Karen Ferguson, Director of Community Programs at: 610-988-0683 or kferguson@berkstasc.org.
Jail MAT Project
In response to the current opioid crisis in Pennsylvania and Berks County, TASC was included in a grant from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to operate a medication assisted treatment (MAT) option to inmates identified as heroin or opiate dependent who are incarcerated at the Berks County Jail System (BCJS).
The program consists of medication maintenance, involving either Suboxone or Vivitrol, as recommended by the physicians from PrimeCare Medical at BCJS. Along with medication, inmates must complete a 12 week cognitive behavioral counseling program facilitated by Berks Counseling Center (BCC) while incarcerated. Following completion, inmates are referred to a medication assisted treatment aftercare provider, their Medicaid benefits are activated, and they are released from prison. TASC then monitors the progress of each participant on a weekly basis to assure compliance with medication and counseling, while assisting each former inmate in successfully transitioning to a drug-free lifestyle.
To be eligible for this specialized program, inmates must meet the following criteria:
1. Berks County resident for at least 3 months prior to incarceration
2. Heroin or opiate dependence for at least 6 months
3. Failure to remain abstinent following previous residential or outpatient treatment programs
4. A willingness to become involved in medication assisted treatment and to use the medication appropriately
For more information about this program, please contact Karen Ferguson, Director of Community Programs at: 610-988-0683 or kferguson@berkstasc.org.
Warm Hand-Off Program at Tower Health and Penn State Health-St. Joseph’s
In response to the current heroin epidemic in Pennsylvania and Berks County, and in conjunction with the Tower Health and Penn State Health-St. Joesph’s, TASC provides intervention services to opiate overdose survivors and patients presenting at the emergency room in severe opiate withdrawal. Working directly from the emergency department on a 24/7 basis, TASC coordinates detoxification and residential treatment admissions for any patient who wants help. In addition, TASC has expanded this service to offer outreach services to any patient at the hospital identified with a substance use disorder specific to any drug and alcohol. TASC also offers Recovery Support Services to all Berks County clients serviced through the WHO Program.
Tower Health
Contact John Janiszewski Monday through Friday from 7am-3pm at 610-816-4759 or johnj@berkstasc.org .
Contact Tower Health WHO office 24/7 at 610-816-4786.
Penn State St. Joseph
Contact Steve Mara at 484-877-6337 or smara@berkstasc.org Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm on an On Call Basis.
DUI-CRN Evaluations
Under Title 75, Section 3802 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, any individual arrested for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance is required to complete a CRN evaluation. DUI offenders arrested in Berks County must complete this evaluation at TASC. In 2015, TASC conducted 1199 CRN evaluations.
The CRN, or Court Reporting Network, evaluation is a computer assisted, self-reporting questionnaire that provides a comprehensive and uniform alcohol and other drug assessment of each DUI offender. Comprised of 100 questions, the CRN evaluation can be completed in approximately 40 minutes. At the conclusion of the evaluation, each offender is issued a computerized summary of the results and recommendations as determined by the CRN.
For offenders who are required to complete a comprehensive drug and alcohol assessment, TASC provides a list of DDAP licensed treatment providers who offer this service. Individuals who do not have private health insurance, or who have publicly funded health insurance (i.e. Medicaid), will be referred to the TASC Central Intake Unit to complete the comprehensive drug and alcohol assessment.
Treatment Court
Since their inception in Berks County in 2005, TASC has played an integral role in the various Treatment Court programs sanctioned by the Berks County Court of Common Pleas. At present, TASC provides substance abuse evaluations, urinalysis testing, and progress/compliance monitoring for participants of the DUI, Drug, Mental Health, and Veterans Treatment Court programs. As a member of each respective Treatment Court Team, TASC provides assistance to the Court in recognizing and following evidence-based treatment and supervision alternatives toward creating lasting lifestyle changes for each participant, while alleviating the burden to the criminal justice system.
For more information contact Melani Calabria at 610-988-0689, or mcalabria@berkstasc.org.
Services
D&A Assessments & Treatment Referrals
For Berks County residents who do not have private health insurance, or who have publicly funded health care coverage (i.e. Medicaid), the TASC Central Intake Unit (CIU) provides substance abuse clinical evaluations to determine the appropriate treatment recommendation. Operating on a walk-in, first come, first serve basis, TASC opens at 8:00 AM, Monday through Friday, to assist individuals in accessing detoxification, outpatient, or residential substance abuse treatment services.
When reporting to TASC, individuals are required to provide proof of Berks County residence, as well as standard identification. Due to the high volume of people seeking treatment services, individuals in need of clinical assessments are encouraged to report to TASC as early as possible. On a monthly basis, the TASC Central Intake Unit will provide assistance to over 500 individuals seeking drug and alcohol treatment.
Recovery Support Services
Recognizing the difficulties facing individuals in the early stages of recovery from addiction, Recovery Support Services is a peer-to-peer program designed to remove obstacles and assist individuals in remaining drug and alcohol free. Comprised of staff members who have “been there” and are in recovery themselves, TASC’s Certified Recovery Support Specialists share their experience, strength, and hope in helping individuals attain their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing, as well providing assistance with employment, literacy, transportation, and access to counseling and support groups. TASC offers this service free of charge for anyone with a sincere desire to stay clean and sober.
For additional information, please contact Steve Mara at 484-877-6337 or smara@berkstasc.org.
Blended Mental Health Case Management
Although primarily known as a drug and alcohol agency, for the past 15 years TASC has provided mental health case management services for hundreds of individuals throughout Berks County. Supported by the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) and the Berks County MH/DD program, TASC’s mental health case management is a free service that supports individuals who are struggling to attain their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing as they recover from mental illness. In addition, case managers listen, support, coach, and encourage individuals as they strive for healthier and more rewarding lifestyles.
All referrals to TASC’s mental health case management unit must be generated by a mental health professional, such as a therapist, social worker, or physician. Eligibility requirements include the following:
• Berks County resident
• 18 years of age or older
• Prior Treatment History
For additional information, please contact Dave Frey at 610-816-4728 or dfrey@berkstasc.org.
Urinalysis Testing
Recognizing the connection between illicit drug use and crime, TASC has provided confidential urinalysis drug testing as a standard service to the Court of Common Pleas since the early 1980s. Partnering with Redwood Toxicology, TASC observes each individual who submits a specimen and, consistent with recognized chain of custody procedures, collects, seals, packages, and ships all specimens to Redwood via FedEx overnight delivery. Results are generally available within 48 hours on Redwood’s web-based ToxAccess database system, of which all referral sources are provided 24/7 access. Referral sources are also afforded a number of reports that can be generated at any time according to a number of preferences.
Through Redwood Toxicology, TASC can test for any number of substances; however, the default panel for most individuals screens for 6 substances, namely Amphetamine/Methamphetamine, Benzodiazepines, Cocaine, Opiates, Oxycodone, and THC. Specialty tests are also available that screen for K2/Synthetic Marijuana, EtG (alcohol testing), PCP, Buprenorphine (Suboxone), and Tricyclic Antidepressants.
Individuals referred by the Berks County Adult Probation & Parole Office, Berks County Pre-Trial Services, and Berks County Children and Youth Services are required to remit a $5.00 co-pay prior to submitting a specimen.
For all specimens, Redwood employs laboratory enzyme immunoassay (EIA) drug testing technology. Confirmation testing, if required by the referral source, is conducted through Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), for which individuals pay $25.00 in advance.
MA Jail Treatment Program
To alleviate jail overcrowding, especially for inmates who are incarcerated for alcohol or drug-related crimes or probation/parole violations, TASC facilitates the MA Jail Pilot Program that offers long-term substance abuse treatment in lieu of jail time.
In conjunction with the Berks County Assistance Office (CAO), the medical and treatment departments at the Berks County Jail System (BCJS), the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA), and the Berks County Adult Probation & Parole Office, TASC conducts clinical assessments, makes treatment referrals, verifies that medical benefits are activated, and coordinates the jail release and treatment admission for each respective inmate referred to this program.
Designed as an alternative to incarceration, TASC admits up to 20 inmates each month to long-term treatment as part of this program.
For more information, please contact Karen Ferguson, Director of Community Programs at: 610-988-0683 or kferguson@berkstasc.org.
Jail MAT Project
In response to the current opioid crisis in Pennsylvania and Berks County, TASC was included in a grant from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to operate a medication assisted treatment (MAT) option to inmates identified as heroin or opiate dependent who are incarcerated at the Berks County Jail System (BCJS).
The program consists of medication maintenance, involving either Suboxone or Vivitrol, as recommended by the physicians from PrimeCare Medical at BCJS. Along with medication, inmates must complete a 12 week cognitive behavioral counseling program facilitated by Berks Counseling Center (BCC) while incarcerated. Following completion, inmates are referred to a medication assisted treatment aftercare provider, their Medicaid benefits are activated, and they are released from prison. TASC then monitors the progress of each participant on a weekly basis to assure compliance with medication and counseling, while assisting each former inmate in successfully transitioning to a drug-free lifestyle.
To be eligible for this specialized program, inmates must meet the following criteria:
1. Berks County resident for at least 3 months prior to incarceration
2. Heroin or opiate dependence for at least 6 months
3. Failure to remain abstinent following previous residential or outpatient treatment programs
4. A willingness to become involved in medication assisted treatment and to use the medication appropriately
For more information about this program, please contact Karen Ferguson, Director of Community Programs at: 610-988-0683 or kferguson@berkstasc.org.
Warm Hand-Off Program at Tower Health and Penn State Health-St. Joseph’s
In response to the current heroin epidemic in Pennsylvania and Berks County, and in conjunction with the Tower Health and Penn State Health-St. Joesph’s, TASC provides intervention services to opiate overdose survivors and patients presenting at the emergency room in severe opiate withdrawal. Working directly from the emergency department on a 24/7 basis, TASC coordinates detoxification and residential treatment admissions for any patient who wants help. In addition, TASC has expanded this service to offer outreach services to any patient at the hospital identified with a substance use disorder specific to any drug and alcohol. TASC also offers Recovery Support Services to all Berks County clients serviced through the WHO Program.
Tower Health
Contact John Janiszewski Monday through Friday from 7am-3pm at 610-816-4759 or johnj@berkstasc.org .
Contact Tower Health WHO office 24/7 at 610-816-4786.
Penn State St. Joseph
Contact Steve Mara at 484-877-6337 or smara@berkstasc.org Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm on an On Call Basis.
DUI-CRN Evaluations
Under Title 75, Section 3802 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, any individual arrested for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance is required to complete a CRN evaluation. DUI offenders arrested in Berks County must complete this evaluation at TASC. In 2015, TASC conducted 1199 CRN evaluations.
The CRN, or Court Reporting Network, evaluation is a computer assisted, self-reporting questionnaire that provides a comprehensive and uniform alcohol and other drug assessment of each DUI offender. Comprised of 100 questions, the CRN evaluation can be completed in approximately 40 minutes. At the conclusion of the evaluation, each offender is issued a computerized summary of the results and recommendations as determined by the CRN.
For offenders who are required to complete a comprehensive drug and alcohol assessment, TASC provides a list of DDAP licensed treatment providers who offer this service. Individuals who do not have private health insurance, or who have publicly funded health insurance (i.e. Medicaid), will be referred to the TASC Central Intake Unit to complete the comprehensive drug and alcohol assessment.
Treatment Court
Since their inception in Berks County in 2005, TASC has played an integral role in the various Treatment Court programs sanctioned by the Berks County Court of Common Pleas. At present, TASC provides substance abuse evaluations, urinalysis testing, and progress/compliance monitoring for participants of the DUI, Drug, Mental Health, and Veterans Treatment Court programs. As a member of each respective Treatment Court Team, TASC provides assistance to the Court in recognizing and following evidence-based treatment and supervision alternatives toward creating lasting lifestyle changes for each participant, while alleviating the burden to the criminal justice system.
For more information contact Melani Calabria at 610-988-0689, or mcalabria@berkstasc.org.