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Bridgeway Center – Wellness Center

137 Hospital Drive Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
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About Bridgeway Center – Wellness Center

In terms of addiction treatment, this center offers a range of services. For many, the first port of call may be detox. Their outpatient detox program is ideal for anyone looking to get sober and commit to their recovery. This program is supervised by a physician and staffed with highly trained nurses and behavioral health counselors.

While many other detox programs a residential, this option presents an alternative for individuals who may have less flexibility or who must continue living at home while in treatment for whatever reason. In this way, they can attend daily or weekly sessions, and come back to the comfort of their home at the end of the day.

As part of this program, individuals will receive a personalized treatment plan, that might include a mixture of substance use groups, case management services, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as well as referrals for psychiatric care and individual therapy as needed.

Groups tend to focus on a variety of recovery topics and are scheduled flexibly throughout the day. During the program, participants are encouraged to focus on the development of natural support systems to help them through the recovery process.

Outside of the detox program, outpatient addiction treatment services include individual and group counseling, addiction education and relapse prevention sessions, medication management, and aftercare support.

DUI programs are also available here for both first-time and multiple offenders. The first-time offender program takes place over 12 hours, while the multiple-offender program is a 21-hour course. Both include separate substance abuse evaluations.

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Latest Reviews

x x
1 month ago on Google
5
I've been going to Bridgeway and getting my mental health medication here since I was 17 (I'm 33 now!) and their staff has always made me feel welcome and at home. My current dr. April Burgess has always gone out of her way to make sure I get my medication, even fitting me into her schedule during mental health emergencies during the several times my Mom was in the hospital. I'm incredibly grateful for her, and even the front desk staff for being patient with me. I'm also happy to be able to have my appointments via telehealth as I'm not always able to visit in person. Thank you for all you do, please don't ever close!
Response from the owner4 weeks ago
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and for trusting Bridgeway Center with your care for so many years. We are honored to hear that our team has helped you feel supported and welcome throughout your journey. It means a great deal to know that our providers and staff have been there for you during challenging times, and that telehealth has made it easier for you to access care when needed. We truly value your kind words and continued confidence in us.
Cindy Thompson
1 month ago on Google
5
The counselors in the CAT program have been absolutely amazing. They have helped me through some very difficult times and taught me some coping skills. I am very grateful for Jes, Melissa and Staci (as well as the rest of the staff) . I look forward to our meetings each week. They are very professional and st the same time make you feel comfortable and important.
Response from the owner4 weeks ago
Thank you for sharing your kind words! We are so glad to hear that you feel supported and valued. Our team in the CAT program is dedicated to creating a welcoming and professional environment, and it means a lot to know their efforts have made a positive impact. We truly appreciate your feedback and the trust you place in us.
Jennifer Wilson
1 month ago on Google
1
The special supervision program is a joke. Literally any way to make things more difficult, costly and keep you in the system. In no way a program designed to assist recovery.
Response from the owner4 weeks ago
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. Your concerns are important to us, and we would like the opportunity to better understand your experience. Please consider reaching out to our Grievance Solutions Hotline at (850) 314-1215 so that we can address your concerns directly and work toward a resolution.

Bridgeway Center is committed to continuous improvement, and your feedback helps us identify ways we can better support those we serve.
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5.7 / 10

Accepted Insurance

Bridgeway Center – Wellness Center works with several private insurance providers and also accepts private payments when possible, please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Other Forms of Payment

Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

outpatient iconOutpatient

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

Treatments

Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Mental health rehabs focus on helping individuals recover from mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, clinical depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and more. Mental health professionals at these facilities are trained to understand and treat mental health issues, both in individual and group settings.

Programs

adult-program thumbnail image

Adult Program

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.
young-adult-program thumbnail image

Young Adult Program

Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment designed to help people understand and ultimately affect the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT is often used for individuals who struggle with self-harm behaviors, such as self-mutilation (cutting) and suicidal thoughts, urges, or attempts. It has been proven clinically effective for those who struggle with out-of-control emotions and mental health illnesses like Borderline Personality Disorder.

Experiential therapy is a form of therapy in which clients are encouraged to surface and work through subconscious issues by engaging in real-time experiences. Experiential therapy departs from traditional talk therapy by involving the body, and having clients engage in activities, movements, and physical and emotional expression. This can involve role-play or using props (which can include other people). Experiential therapy can help people process trauma, memories, and emotion quickly, deeply, and in a lasting fashion, leading to substantial and impactful healing.

Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Nutrition therapy, aka medical nutrition therapy (MNT), is a way of treating physical, emotional, and medical conditions through diet. Specific dietary plans are designed by professional nutritionists or registered dietitians, and patients follow them in order to positively affect their physical and mental health.

Trauma therapy addresses traumatic incidents from a client's past that are likely affecting their present-day experience. Trauma is often one of the primary triggers and potential causes of addiction, and can stem from child sexual abuse, domestic violence, having a parent with a mental illness, losing one or both parents at a young age, teenage or adult sexual assault, or any number of other factors. The purpose of trauma therapy is to allow a patient to process trauma and move through and past it, with the help of trained and compassionate mental health professionals.

Staff

Bonnie R. Barlow, SHRM-SCP, SPHR

President & CEO

Larry McFarland, LMHC

Chief Clinical Officer

Clayton McAllister, MBA

CFO & Chief Technology Officer

Jenna McElyea, MBA, LPN

Senior VP of Medical Services

Carrie Parker

Human Resources & Quality Program Director

Stefanie Fontaine, BS

Director of Growth & Development

Major Kevin Kirkpatrick, MS

Chair

Angie Bobo Onianwa, BA

1st Vice-Chair & Chair-Elect

Contact Information

Building icon

137 Hospital Drive
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Fact checked and written by:
Lauren Thompson
Edited by:
Courtney Myers, MS

Rehab in Cities Near Fort Walton Beach

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Reviews of Bridgeway Center – Wellness Center

3.7/5 (133 reviews)
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Reviews

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Date Submitted
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Google Reviews

3.7 (133 reviews)
x x
1 month ago
5

I've been going to Bridgeway and getting my mental health medication here since I was 17 (I'm 33 now!) and their staff has always made me feel welcome and at home. My current dr. April Burgess has always gone out of her way to make sure I get my medication, even fitting me into her schedule during mental health emergencies during the several times my Mom was in the hospital. I'm incredibly grateful for her, and even the front desk staff for being patient with me. I'm also happy to be able to have my appointments via telehealth as I'm not always able to visit in person. Thank you for all you do, please don't ever close!

Response from the owner
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and for trusting Bridgeway Center with your care for so many years. We are honored to hear that our team has helped you feel supported and welcome throughout your journey. It means a great deal to know that our providers and staff have been there for you during challenging times, and that telehealth has made it easier for you to access care when needed. We truly value your kind words and continued confidence in us.
Cindy Thompson
1 month ago
5

The counselors in the CAT program have been absolutely amazing. They have helped me through some very difficult times and taught me some coping skills. I am very grateful for Jes, Melissa and Staci (as well as the rest of the staff) . I look forward to our meetings each week. They are very professional and st the same time make you feel comfortable and important.

Response from the owner
Thank you for sharing your kind words! We are so glad to hear that you feel supported and valued. Our team in the CAT program is dedicated to creating a welcoming and professional environment, and it means a lot to know their efforts have made a positive impact. We truly appreciate your feedback and the trust you place in us.
Jennifer Wilson
1 month ago
1

The special supervision program is a joke. Literally any way to make things more difficult, costly and keep you in the system. In no way a program designed to assist recovery.

Response from the owner
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. Your concerns are important to us, and we would like the opportunity to better understand your experience. Please consider reaching out to our Grievance Solutions Hotline at (850) 314-1215 so that we can address your concerns directly and work toward a resolution.

Bridgeway Center is committed to continuous improvement, and your feedback helps us identify ways we can better support those we serve.
Shannon Smith
1 month ago
5

My husband and I Terry Franklin and Shannon Smith have been going to Bridgeway for over 20 years we love this organization we used to live at the apartments and April Burgess my husband's doctor is awesome he loves her and I love Dr Kay Whitten she's awesome I highly recommend Bridgeway they really care about their clients!!! And I have a case manager Alyce is awesome also!!! All of the nurses and doctors there really care about their clients and having a pharmacy right there is very convenient I highly recommend to anyone!!!

Response from the owner
Hi Shannon (and Terry), thank you so much for sharing your kind words and for trusting Bridgeway for over 20 years. We’re grateful for your recommendation and will happily pass your praise along to April B., Dr. Kay Whitten, Alyce, and our nursing and pharmacy teams. It means a lot to hear that our staff’s care and the on-site pharmacy have been helpful and convenient. If there’s ever anything more we can do to support you, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Johnny Robinette
2 months ago
5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Exceptional Service from Tina Carter Pearl – A True Asset to Bridgeway Center I rarely write reviews, but the extraordinary assistance I received from Tina Carter Pearl at the Bridgeway Center in Fort Walton Beach, Florida deserves the highest praise imaginable. Tina is, without question, one of the most dedicated and tenacious professionals I’ve encountered in my 30 years as a retired US Navy Command Master Chief. Faced with the notoriously difficult task of obtaining documentation from the Veterans Administration—specifically from the James A. Haley Mental Health Center in Temple Terrace—Tina tackled the challenge with the determination of a bulldog. She never lost focus, never gave up, and never left me in the dark. Her persistence in contacting the VA, coordinating with Amy there, and ensuring my course was properly recorded not just at Bridgeway but at the state level was nothing short of heroic. Tina kept me informed every step of the way, demonstrating a level of care, professionalism, and follow-through that is increasingly rare in today’s workforce. Her “can-do” attitude and relentless pursuit of resolution made me feel supported, respected, and genuinely cared for. If I were still building teams in the Navy, I’d recruit her in a heartbeat. She is an absolute asset to your organization, and I hope her efforts are recognized not just with gratitude—but with a well-deserved raise. Employees like Tina don’t just represent your company—they elevate it. Thank you, Tina, for going above and beyond. You made a difficult process manageable, and you did it with grace, grit, and excellence. Best Regards, Johnny Robinette

Response from the owner
Thank you, Johnny, for sharing such a thoughtful review and for recognizing Tina’s outstanding dedication. We are grateful to have Tina on our team, and we’re thrilled to hear how much her persistence, professionalism, and care made a difference for you. Your kind words reflect exactly why she is such an asset to Bridgeway Center. We’ll be sure to share your praise with her!
Ann Vaughan
2 months ago
5

we just started getting services here. everyone is professional and also helpful. it is a comforting environment. we look forward to a long relationship with Bridgeway Center. thank you so much

Response from the owner
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that you’re finding our team to be professional and helpful, and that our environment feels comforting. Building long-term relationships with those we serve is very important to us, and we’re grateful you’ve chosen Bridgeway Center. We look forward to supporting you every step of the way. 💙
Carolyn
2 months ago
5

I have been a client for a while and Ms April has been AMAZING

Response from the owner
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad to hear that April has made such a positive impact in your care. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to her—she truly is an asset to our team. We appreciate your trust in Bridgeway Center!
Amaury Rodriguez
2 months ago
5

I have been coming here for over a decade now since the onset of my condition. Annie and Jim, the nurses who administer my monthly injections, have been a constant source of comfort and pillars of professionalism. April Burgess, whom I see every 3 months to make sure my medications are working well, goes above and beyond by actually caring how I'm doing and wanting to see me grow and improve as a person. I don't know where I would be in my life without the care and support of all the staff here and I don't want to dwell on it. Thank you for all that you've done everyone!

Response from the owner
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review and for trusting us with your care for over a decade. We’re incredibly proud to have compassionate and dedicated team members who make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Your kind words mean the world to us, and we’re honored to be a part of your journey. We look forward to continuing to support you in your growth and wellness. Thank you again for sharing your experience!
Pamela Boutell
3 months ago
5

I recently needed assistance from medical records and Stephanie went above & beyond to locate them for me. It took time & patience, but that didn’t deter her from the task. Stephanie was gracious, kind, and a wonderful soul who seems to love her job, and she’s very good at it! I can’t thank her enough!

Response from the owner
Thank you so much for your thoughtful 5-star review! We'll be sure to pass along your kind words—recognition like this means the world to our team. Thank you again for sharing your experience!
marcus odom
4 months ago
5

Kasey Renfrow
4 months ago
1

Tried calling and can get no one on the phone to answer any questions. Why even have a phone? No one will answer at 9am

Response from the owner
Thank you for your feedback. We sincerely apologize for the difficulty you experienced in reaching us by phone. Providing timely and helpful service is very important to us, and we apologize for falling short in this instance.

We understand how frustrating this can be and appreciate you bringing it to our attention. Your feedback has been shared with our team so we can work to improve our responsiveness. Please try calling our main line again at (850) 833-7500, and we’ll do our best to assist you promptly. If you leave a voicemail and do not receive a response in a reasonable amount of time, we encourage you to call our Solutions Line at (850) 314-1215 for additional support.
Sabrina Booker
4 months ago
5

I can't say enough about how AWESOME the LADIES IN PSYCHIATRIC MEDICATION SERVICES ARE!!! They are helpful, PATIENT, annnnd they DON'T HESITATE to go ABOVE AND BEYOND for their clients and those that care for them. SPECIAL LOVE AND KUDOS are being sent out to Jenna, Kayleigh, and Lexie for going above the call of duty to make sure we got what we needed to ensure our loved one got the care they needed. SO grateful for you wonderful ladies!

Response from the owner
Thank you so much for your kind words and enthusiastic praise! We're incredibly proud of our Psychiatric Medication Services team, and we're delighted to hear that they had such a positive impact on your experience. Your recognition of their dedication, compassion, and commitment to going above and beyond means the world to us. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support you and your loved one, and we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. 💙
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