165 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The reviews describe the staff's love and commitment as remarkable, with lasting friendships. Staff helped residents learn basic skills and supported them to pursue college. The program is noted for strong communication and accountability among staff. The place is said to hold a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it. One reviewer says the place saved their life when they hit rock bottom. Staff welcome residents with love and are described as polite. The food is praised as awesome, and the clients are described positively. Lower-ranked staff are credited with genuine love, care, and compassion.
The program has a history of client rights violations and punitive programming. A new director is accused of moving toward manipulation, gaslighting, and punitive practices framed as restorative justice. Restorative practices are misused and can retraumatize victims, such as when abuse was publicly disclosed in a house circle. The program tells clients they have choices but follows up with conversations about whether they belong, effectively coercing compliance. The "buy-in" culture and consequences for independence make true self-sufficiency nearly impossible. Staff are often inadequately trained, though lower-ranked staff show genuine care; overall care is compromised. Leadership and state gatekeeping prioritize numerical scores over real healing and safety, hindering progress.Mainestay is described as a transitional living group home designed for young adults ages 18 to 25 who are navigating mental health challenges and/or co-occurring substance use issues. The reviews present a complex picture: for some residents, the place has felt like a true home where they could grow, learn, open up, and become the person they are today. They speak of love and commitment that reach across the entire community, enduring friendships, and a network of support that helped them access medical care and even pursue college. In these accounts, staff members were repeatedly credited with working hard on communication and accountability, creating a foundation where people felt seen, supported, and connected. The sentiment is that Mainestay holds a deeply special place in their hearts because of the meaningful relationships and the sense of belonging they found there, often reinforced by the presence of caring, dedicated people at every level.
Yet this same place is not free from serious critique. A recurring thread among the reviews is the history of client rights violations and punitive programming, coupled with a recent shift under a new director. While the program began to move away from overt punitive measures, several reviewers argue that it was replaced with manipulation, gaslighting, and what they describe as punitive tactics masked as "restorative justice." They contend that the program touts restorative practices while misusing them in ways that can be harmful or abusive. A particularly troubling example cited is an incident where two residents who were being sexually abused by another client - an individual with a known history of this behavior - came forward. Instead of a confidential handling of the report, a house circle was conducted in which a clinician publicly announced the incident to all housemates. The justification given was that more people knowing about the situation would reduce harm, but victims say this retraumatized them and magnified their pain. Reviewers see this as a clear distortion of restorative practices and a betrayal of the trust meant to support survivors.
The critiques extend to the broader culture around rights and independence. Reviewers describe a pattern in which residents are told they have rights and choices, yet there is always a follow-up conversation that effectively questions whether they belong at Mainestay. The phrase "buying in" appears as a recurring theme, suggesting that survival within the program relies on conforming to what staff expect, sometimes at odds with a resident's own values. The promise of independence, which should be a healing and empowering trajectory, is described as being undermined by consequences for attempting to assert autonomy. In parallel, some reviewers point to a treatment model weighed down by numerical scores and state gatekeeping, implying that the program's approach may prioritize measurable metrics over genuine healing and patient-centered care. The concern is that these dynamics can turn advocacy for rights into coercive pressure, rather than meaningful empowerment.
Another layer of critique centers on staff training and safety. Several reviewers note that staff are not uniformly well-trained, particularly at higher levels of the organization. They acknowledge, however, that resident technicians and front-line staff - often the people who interact most directly with residents - tend to be kind, considerate, and hardworking. In their view, these lower-ranked staff members do the real heavy lifting, delivering care and compassion even when the system around them is imperfect. This contrast creates a bittersweet picture: a program capable of genuine warmth and creative energy (the place is described as having a very creative environment with recreational opportunities that thrived pre-pandemic) that nonetheless struggles with leadership decisions and a treatment framework that many residents find confining and, at times, retraumatizing.
The personal experiences shared in these reviews also include brighter notes that color the overall portrait. While the environment can feel awkward or challenging at first, the staff are often described as welcoming and loving after an initial period, and the meals are praised as excellent, with both residents and staff speaking positively about the quality of food and the social atmosphere. Some residents credit Mainestay with saving their lives during moments of deep crisis, underscoring the essential value of having housing, support, and community at a vulnerable stage of life. There are also clear reminders that the program houses young people with real challenges and that, for some, it remains a place of refuge, connection, and growth.
Taken together, the reviews present a place with undeniable warmth and potential. The same space that can feel like home for some residents is also described as a source of harm or retraumatization for others, depending on who you are, who leads the program, and which practices are emphasized on any given day. The consistent threads point to a healing potential rooted in a creative, caring community and dedicated front-line staff, tempered by serious concerns about leadership, punitive or coercive elements, the misuse of restorative practices, and gaps in staff training. Many reviewers acknowledge that Mainestay could be a powerful force for recovery if its governance, treatment philosophy, and safety practices were aligned more closely with its stated goals - support, autonomy, and genuine healing - rather than with risk-averse, score-driven, or gatekeeping approaches that can hinder true progress for those it serves.
8 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Portland International Jetport (3 miles away)
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.Mainestay in Portland, ME is a fully furnished assisted living community that offers a variety of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The dining room provides delicious meals that cater to special dietary restrictions, ensuring that each individual's nutritional needs are met. Housekeeping services are provided to ensure a clean and tidy living environment.
Residents will have access to outdoor spaces, including a garden, allowing them to enjoy nature and relax in a peaceful setting. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet is available throughout the community, keeping residents connected with their loved ones and providing entertainment options.
The caring staff at Mainestay is dedicated to assisting residents with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also coordinate with healthcare providers, ensuring that residents receive the necessary medical attention. Medication management is provided to help residents stay on top of their medication regimen.
Transportation arrangement for medical appointments is available, making it convenient for residents to attend doctors' appointments. Residents can also participate in scheduled daily activities organized by the community, promoting socialization and engagement.
Mainestay is conveniently located near various amenities. There are 14 cafes nearby for residents to enjoy coffee or meet friends for a quick bite. Parks provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. There are 9 pharmacies nearby for easy access to medications. With 19 physicians nearby, residents have quick access to healthcare professionals. Additionally, there are 46 restaurants nearby offering diverse dining options for residents' enjoyment. A theater nearby provides entertainment options for those who enjoy cultural experiences. In case of emergencies or specialized medical care needs, there are 5 hospitals located conveniently close by.
Overall, Mainestay in Portland, ME offers a comfortable and enriching assisted living experience with various amenities and care services tailored to meet the individual needs of its residents while being conveniently located near essential facilities and services within the community.
Mainestay is located at 165 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, ME 04101 in Cumberland County, Maine
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