Boston has strong herpes support options thanks to an established HELP chapter and some of the best sexual health clinics in the country. Whether you want peer support, professional medical care, or a virtual group you can join from home, here’s what’s available.
In-person herpes support groups in Boston
Boston HELP (Herpes Education & Listening Program)
- Phone: (781) 648-4266
- Address: P.O. Box 1027, Back Bay Annex, Boston, MA 02117-1027
- Format: Both in-person and virtual meetings
- What they offer: Emotional support, education, and empowerment. One of the most established HELP chapters in the Northeast.
Boston Area Herpes Support (BAHS). Regular meetings, educational events, and community-building activities in the Boston area.
Clinical resources in Boston
Boston has some of the best sexual health clinics in the country:
Massachusetts General Hospital. Sexual Health Clinic
- Evaluation and treatment for genital herpes (HSV)
- Hours: Mon 8:30am–6:30pm, Tue–Wed 8:30am–5pm, Thu 8:30am–6:30pm, Fri 8:30am–5pm
Boston Medical Center. STD Clinic
- Comprehensive STI screening and treatment
- Full-service care for those testing positive or symptomatic
Fenway Health. Sexual Health Clinic
- 4th floor, 1340 Boylston St, Boston
- New patient registration: (617) 927-6100
Planned Parenthood. Greater Boston Health Center
- STD testing and treatment
- Free, anonymous Sexual Health Counseling Hotline: 1-877-686-5772 (option 3)
Boston Public Health Commission. Free testing at community health centers citywide. Mayor’s Health Line: (617) 534-5050 or 1-800-847-0710.
Note: In Massachusetts, anyone 13 or older can get confidential STI testing without parental permission.
Virtual and online options for Boston residents
- Herpes Opportunity virtual support calls. Connect from anywhere in a facilitated, judgment-free space
- SPFPP virtual groups. Weekly online groups with separate sessions for men and women. Visit spfpp.org
- ASHA forums. Anonymous online discussions about transmission, testing, and talking with partners
Boston’s combination of peer support and world-class medical resources means you’re in good hands. Take the first step.
