Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy is employed to obtain chemical data with respect to body tissue and cells. The chemical environments of stimulation implants and drug-delivery catheters are spectroscopically monitored in real time using an implantable probe. The probe includes a surface enhancer that facilitates surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy in opposing relation to an array of optical fibers. Light emitted by the optical fibers can be employed for chemical detection and/or tissue stimulation. Wavelength and optical power are selected based on whether the probe is employed for such detection or stimulation. Fabrication of a probe assembly that enables surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy is further disclosed.