My mother was admitted for approximately 14 days to be treated for depression. They would not treat her without $2000 up front and insurance would cover the rest. Two and a half days later, she had not been treated nor received any counseling. They put her in a large room ...
About Ridgeview Institute
Ridgeview Institute is a psychiatric and addiction treatment hospital in Smyrna, Georgia serving individuals seeking recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. Operating since 1976, the facility offers medically supervised detox, inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and on-campus residences.
Flexible Detox Treatment Programs at Ridgeview Institute
Individuals treatment varies per person, but typically starts with a medically supervised detox for alcohol, opiates, or benzodiazepines, followed by inpatient psychiatric stabilization. Patients can then change to a more flexible treatment program with day and evening schedule options.
Programming includes individual, group, and family therapy using approaches such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is available, along with specialized tracks like the Empower Women’s Program and a Recovering Professionals Program for licensed professionals.
Community & Financial Support
The facility works with the community by offering over 15 support groups that are free for everyone. They have an active alumni association to help the recovery community.
There is financial support and assistance for eligible Cobb county residents. Otherwise, Ridgeview Institute accepts most commercial insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and TRICARE.
Edited by:
Maygen Brockway, MTC
Latest Reviews
A lot of great techs who definitely care for their patients. They are understaffed so there was a bit of a wait but I got good help and they provided cigarettes so we were able to have a small escape to normalcy. Made friends that I’ll keep in contact with. Recommend for anyone needing help to get back on track.
Response from the owner1 week ago
Thank you for your kind words and recommendation. We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. Our team is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment, and it is encouraging to hear when those efforts are recognized. We also appreciate your feedback regarding staffing and wait times, as we are continually working to improve access to care and the overall experience for those we serve. Thank you again for your support and for sharing your perspective with our community.
Got sober here in 2018. Spent my 28th birthday in there. Still sober today, celebrating 8 years total sobriety in July. Wrote a book about it. I’m sorry so many people had bad experiences here. Ridgeview saved my life.
Response from the owner1 week ago
Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your feedback. We appreciate your support and are grateful that you chose to share your perspective. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and appreciate your connection to our community.
First off my son was brought by ambulance on 05/12/2026 from the hospital. He arrived about 4:30ish or according to him. Receptionist (blue hair) at the front very sweet. She kind explained how long my son was going to be there. From the Hospital he was already 1013 hold, which is 72hr hold , which means he would leave by Friday 05/15/2026. He signed the 1010 form which is him refusing service and requesting to leave. They didn’t let him leave . My son has a delay impairment, which he is 18 by his understanding and knowledge is of a 13-14 yr old , I explained that in the hospital, here with receptionist, he doesn’t understand much what’s going on. Wednesday 05/13/2026 around 2:20pm or so I get a call from a nurse asking if my son had history of seizures, I said he didn’t , like taking medicine for it I said no , but that he had some at 9months, 2yrs , 4yrs and then 3 yrs ago, only if he hits his head , he would pass out the get a seizure. Then she gives the phone to another nurse and I explained same thing to her , she told the had checked his vital signs , me thinking it was part of the evaluation. Neither one of them at any moment mentioned my son had hit head and had a seizure. I didn’t hear worries or distressed about the situation. My son calls about 5:40 pm saying he was at the hospital due to seizure. That’s how I found out about it . Very unprofessional on their behalf. Also on The day he arrived , I had to go a Walmart nearby to him some clothes, again I didn’t know how this place worked or how thing went in there. When ai arrived at hospital I found my son with same paper scrubs he arrived Tuesday evening. I asked him about his clothes, he told me they didn’t let him, shower , that night I called the facility spoke to the nurse to please let him shower when jets back from hospital, he told me he would let him shower in the morning since it was late already. I spoke to my son thrusday morning asked if he showered he said no that he had to wait till night before bed. I was mad and again spoke to a nurse, she was like, they can shower anytime, but why did the other nurse only at night. They tell me a the therapist will call me to update on his evaluation, the process , nothing even requested to speak to a supervisor someone in charge , they denied it. Now they trying to keep him under 1014, for what basically released till Thrusday, they don’t realize they damaging him more. He signed the release form so they can tell me what’s going on , but until now I don’t know nothing. I tried calling today 3 times to front desk , they hanged up on me. Even called the police and file a report
Out of respect for patient privacy, we are unable to address specific details of any individual's care in a public forum. However, we want you to know that your concerns have been noted and we genuinely want the opportunity to speak with you directly.
We encourage you to contact our Patient Relations team at WeCare@ridgeviewinstitute.com so that a member of our leadership team can review your concerns thoroughly and respond in the manner they deserve. You may also reach us in writing at 3995 South Cobb Drive, Smyrna, GA 30080.
We remain committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to every individual we serve and to keeping families informed throughout the process. We hope to connect with you soon.
Response from the owner1 week ago
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We take all feedback seriously, and the concerns you have described — regarding communication, coordination of care, and family engagement — are matters we hold to a high standard.Out of respect for patient privacy, we are unable to address specific details of any individual's care in a public forum. However, we want you to know that your concerns have been noted and we genuinely want the opportunity to speak with you directly.
We encourage you to contact our Patient Relations team at WeCare@ridgeviewinstitute.com so that a member of our leadership team can review your concerns thoroughly and respond in the manner they deserve. You may also reach us in writing at 3995 South Cobb Drive, Smyrna, GA 30080.
We remain committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to every individual we serve and to keeping families informed throughout the process. We hope to connect with you soon.
Rehab Score
Our Methodology
Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full Methodology
6.2 / 10
Gallery
Other Forms of Payment
Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.
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.
Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.
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.
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.
Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.
Addiction Treatments
Levels of Care
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.
Residential treatment programs are those that offer housing and meals in addition to substance abuse treatment. Rehab facilities that offer residential treatment allow patients to focus solely on recovery, in an environment totally separate from their lives. Some rehab centers specialize in short-term residential treatment (a few days to a week or two), while others solely provide treatment on a long-term basis (several weeks to months). Some offer both, and tailor treatment to the patient's individual requirements.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.
Aftercare, which is sometimes referred to as continuing care or relapse prevention, is a type of structured care meant to help you continue with the progress you've made after completing an addiction treatment program. Most of the time, you'll continue receiving support after a treatment program by partnering with their case managers and staff to identify and access the resources you need to remain sober.
Designed for individuals who don't require round-the-clock care, a partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a form of outpatient care with a higher level of support. PHP treatment can be an alternative to inpatient hospitalization or a step-down option. With daily sessions lasting 6 to 8 hours, up to 5 days a week, a partial hospitalization program may offer medication management, relapse prevention techniques, and behavioral therapy interventions. PHP treatment can be fully or partially covered by insurance.
24-hour clinical care in Georgia reduces the risks involved in detox and addiction treatment. Without access to professional medical care, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms that become life threatening. For example, alcohol withdrawal can cause delirium tremens, confusion, and cardiac symptoms. Without medical supervision to step in, these symptoms could potentially turn fatal.
Treatments
The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.
A quality drug rehab in Georgia can help you overcome addiction. This environment is designed to help you address the complex issues contributing to drug dependence. The goal of treatment is to give you the tools you need to make a full recovery.
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.
A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.
Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.
Programs
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 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.
Recovery is most successful when clients feel accepted and validated by their peers and treatment providers. Facilities that offer LGBTQ-inclusive programming are committed to creating a safe space where everyone can grow and recover without fear of judgment or discrimination. They will have dedicated policies in place to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters free expression.
Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
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.
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.
In trauma therapy, you address the emotional and psychological effects of traumatic events in your life. Your therapist provides you with the tools you need to process those memories and reduce the symptoms. This helps improve your overall mental health and functioning.
The skills you learn in couples therapy are designed to help you successfully address relationship challenges as they arise. These skills can include anger management, conflict resolution, communication, and problem solving.
Staff & Accreditations
Staff
Amy Alexander
CEO
Yanet Montes
CFO
Amy Harshaw
Chief Nursing Officer
Mahaveer Vakharia
Medical Director
Raynard Ware
COO
Lynn Leger
Director, Information Systems
Accreditations
The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.
Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes
Contact Information
3995 South Cobb Drive SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
Get Help Now - 470-866-4553
Sponsored Helpline
Sponsored Helpline
