River Edge Behavioral Health

About River Edge Behavioral Health

The clinic hits the nail on its head about being accessible and tailoring treatment to an individual. They cater to conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and even schizophrenia. Their team provides evidence-based practices and therapies, customizing every care plan to fit the individual needs of each client. Whether someone needs crisis intervention, counseling or long-term mental health management River Edge supports them through the whole continuum of care.

They also provide outpatient (OP) programs to help manage and overcome Addiction. What sets them apart is their dedication to including the community and family members in the recovery process, understanding that true healing happens away from a treatment center. The center also offers medication assisted treatment (MAT) for individuals struggling with opioid and alcohol use, providing the necessary medical care needed while recovering.

There is a very strong priority placed on making sure that treatment can be made available to those who need it. They are Medicaid and Medicare providers, as well as most major private insurance plans, also offer a sliding-scale payment option ensuring cost is never an obstacle for needed care.

If you have acute symptoms or need stronger support, they can refer you to their residential center, also in Macon.

Facility Overview

Number of Available Beds

Latest Reviews

Ciel Smith

1 week ago on Google

When I first got there at 2am I was shaking in fear and out of cold and they forced me to strip all my clothes off in front of two staff when I was just a kid they two staff pretty much just stared at my body and I stood there for ten minutes before getting any type of clothes. The Counciling staff told me I was looking for attention and that I was the problem rather than trying to help when I was in a very bad situation with my home life. The staff were rather rude and would always make fun of the patients in a cruel way and asking inappropriate questions on if we’d have a physical relationship with one of the other patients. I was there for over a week and it had to have been one of the most humiliating experiences of my life, it made things worse than to fix it.

Tristan Liones

1 month ago on Google

Cant comment on how it is now, since I wouldn't know. I went here maybe around 10 years ago when I was 8. The staff... Weren't horrible, surprisingly. There were a few, but none I would say were particularly bad. I remember when we went to the schoolhouse under the facility (this facility had a weird layout back then, like I said I don't know how it is now), I remember a girl no older than 5 passing out next to me. I tried to get the staff's attention, but nobody paid any kind until I started trying to wake her up. That's when everyone noticed. But on the better side of things, there were movies we could watch. PG-13 and below, yeah, but hey, it was something. I don't recommend this place personally unless it's truly a last resort.

Heather Collins

1 month ago on Google

I have been trying to get an appointment for 2 weeks now... for my follow up appointment. I have called every single day only to be told there are no appointments. The way this scheduling system is.... it's insane. Wanna talk about making a mental health patient go crazy?! This is the way to do it. I've even called the director of scheduling and hr and got absolutely NO RESPONSE. Glad im able to control myself a little better because if not I would probably be admitted for showing out. Im trying to get the help that I need but I can't help myself if NOONE can get me an appointment!!!!! And for me to be complaining it HAS to be something serious. I NEED AN APPOINTMENT and I NEED it now!!!!!! My medicine is NOT working how I need it to and this is dangerous for me and others. Please!!!! GIVE ME AN APPOINTMENT

Response from the owner1 week ago

HI Heather, Thank you for bringing this to our attention.. Would you please email socialmedia@river-edge.org with some contact information? We would like to help and get more information and get this rectified for you.
Thank you,
Jen

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

6.6 / 10

Gallery

Accepted Insurance

River Edge Behavioral Health works with several private insurance providers and also accepts private payments when possible, please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Amerigroup

WellCare

Cenpatico

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.

Sliding scale payments are based on a client's income and family size. The goal is to make treatment affordable to everyone. By taking these factors into account, addiction recovery care providers help ensure that your treatment does not become a financial burden to you or your family, eliminating one barrier to care.

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.

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.

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.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Intensive Outpatient

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.

12-Step

Participants in 12 step recovery programs focus on personal growth to address the emotional and psychological factors contributing to their addiction. 12 step recovery is rooted in spiritual development, but religious affiliation isn't required. Regular group meetings and individualized support with the help of self-selected sponsors promote participants' sobriety as they work through the 12 steps, gaining insight into their addiction, taking responsibility for their life choices, and releasing control over that which is uncontrollable.

Sober Living Homes

Sober living homes in Georgia offers an alternative to the abrupt change of moving from intensive treatment to an unstructured home environment. Men's and women's sober living homes replicate everyday life situations, but they do so in a sober environment while also reinforcing healthy habits. This reduces the chance of relapse. Individuals who could use extra support after rehab or don't have a stable home environment can benefit from this transitional option.

Intervention Services

A drug intervention in Georgia is designed to encourage an individual to get the treatment they need. This effort aims to break through resistance and motivate the individual to get help. The process typically involves loved ones sharing their concerns with the individual and how their substance use has affected those who care about them. A professional interventionist can help guide this conversation and explain from the clinical side how treatment can be beneficial.

Partial Hospitalization Program

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.

Medically Assisted Detox

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

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 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.

Clinical Services

While cognitive behavioral therapy in Georgia is unique for each person, this therapy follows a standard structure that has proven effective. Clients first learn about their substance use disorder, then learn and practice techniques such as coping, stress management, and resilience to change their thought and behavior patterns.

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.

Men and women in Georgia may experience Motivational Interviewing techniques while undergoing individual therapy for drug and alcohol addiction treatment. This approach helps you explore how you feel about drug use and it strengthens your commitment to maintaining treatment. It is particularly useful in the early stages of recovery.

During rehab in Georgia, you may engage in motivational interviewing. This typically lasts one to two sessions and is designed to address any ambivalence you have toward change. It helps you explore your current situation and motivations and commit to making changes for the future.

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.

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.

During family therapy sessions in Georgia, members address the emotional toll that addiction has had on them. Therapists help your family develop coping strategies and improve the family unit's communication. This provides a stable environment that supports the recovery process.

Staff & Accreditations

Staff

Cass Hatcher, CCM, EDFP

CEO

Tommy Barnes, MBA

COO/Acting HR Director

Shane Hester, CPA

CFO

Frederica McClary-Myers, LPC, CPCS, MAC, CAMS

Interim Chief Clinical Officer/Director of Fulton County Behavioral Health

Greta O’Dell, DDP, CACTS

Chief Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Officer

Sujatha Reddy, M.D.

Chief Medical Officer

Ali Yallah, PhD, PMP, Six Sigma

CIO

Katherine Collins, RN-BSN

Director of Crisis Stabilization & Recovery

Dan Davis

Director of Training & Human Resources Analyst

Michele Fulcher, RN

Director of Nursing, Health Information & Risk Management

Mia Geiger

Director of Development

Christy Hallman, CPRP

Director of Operations

Accreditations

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.

CARF Accreditation: Yes

Contact Information

(478) 803-7600

Website

175 Emery Highway
Macon, GA 31217

Get Help Now - 478-324-3720

Rehab in Cities Near Macon

Back to GA

Reviews of River Edge Behavioral Health

2.6/5 (82 reviews)

Google Reviews

2.6 (82 reviews)

1 week ago

Tytianna Smith

3 weeks ago

1 month ago

Response from the owner

Kori McDaniel

2 months ago

After being let down by providers over and over again, I finally reached out to River Edge thinking they could give me a list of recommended providers. They saw my child and I feel so confident in their ability and resources. The intake process is a little time consuming but so glad we stuck with it!

Alberta Boycan

Do. They. Have. apartments

Meka532@gmail.com Wright

3 months ago

airamis sparks

5 months ago

Hung up on clients over and over because they don't have insurance anymore rude and disrespectful.

HI Airamis,
Please feel free to contact us at 478-803-7744 or drop by our office so that we can answer your questions and address your concerns.

Jose Carlos

7 months ago

I came for my appointment on the 1/10/2025 And it was closed I’m already backed up for my injection I called them on Monday the lady said come in Tomorrow at 8.30 it’s 8.27am been here since 7 and they telling me my appointment was yesterday which it’s confusing they want to make ppl feel like we crazy I have the call saved on my phone it was at 11.50am when I called to reschedule an appointment and they telling me my appointment was scheduled for 8.30am yesterday… how? If I called at 11.am everybody here saying they need their injection and they telling everyone that they had their appointment yesterday … I need a job I used to work in a command center making calls if they need real workers I will be gladly work here not only cause I have psychosis means that I’m crazy but I do need my injection or pills

kelsey duncan

9 months ago

I went here when I was 12 years old, the staff was very unprofessional. I remember hugging a girl who was crying and immediately was shouted at, I remember on my own life a "nurse" holding down a 5 year old boy "for everyone's safety" I remember a little girl getting the "boots juice" (sedation for crying about missing her father). I was brought in and immediately disgustinged by the nurses for being neglected and having lice. I appreciate those nurses who took the time out of their day to do that. But I felt unwanted and untreated. Most kids who go here don't turn out better for themselves or anyone, they just want to get out. On my second day a little boy told me about a escape plan having to do with the railroad tracks next to the facility. His parents picked him up the next day. My parents or no one else's were informed that you can take you're child out of this place when needed or wanted. The therapists are an absolute joke, they look like their fed up 24/7. You can't get a good night's rest of sleep ether, I understand checking up on patients but coming in at 2 in the morning every night to ask if I've had a bowel movement. What does that have to do with my mental health? Many kids who have come here looking for treatment come out the same or worse. There was tons of pentagrams on the wall and were not fixed/painted over. I was unwillingly sent and this place is a true house of horrors. The only praise I give is to one woman of color named Amber, she gave little nick names to all of the girls based off of Disney princesses. She was a good one. The rest I don't know. This place is an absolute hell and I wouldn't send someone addicted to drugs because they'd probably come out worse. Do not recommend

Hi Kelsey,

We are truly sorry to hear about your negative experience. The concerns you raised—children not improving, the facility's condition, and the treatment you received—are deeply troubling and do not align with our mission to provide compassionate and effective care in a safe environment.

We take feedback like this seriously and are committed to addressing these issues. If you’d like to share more details, please contact us at 478.803.7744. Your input is invaluable in helping us ensure no one else feels the way you did.

Sincerely, Jen at River Edge

Jennifer Morris

They fed me well and leveled my meds some staff are cruel to some patients making fun of me and calling them out of their name for instance a fellow patient is a big guy and has a baby face the techs would call him “big baby! I could tell itmade him nervous, one of the security guards tackled a tiny young girl of 19 yrs old I hope he didn’t break her shoulder , staff waited days before getting her medical attention I pray she is ok and healing

Jennifer Morris,
We are sorry to hear about your experience and the concerning incidents you described. While we’re glad your medication and nutrition needs were met, ANY unprofessional behavior, disrespect, or delays in medical attention are completely unacceptable.

We are committed to thoroughly reviewing these claims to ensure the safety and dignity of everyone in our care. Please feel free to reach out at socialmedia@river-edge.org to provide more details. Your feedback helps us improve and hold ourselves accountable.

Jen @River Edge Behavioral Health

Sam Raffield

1 year ago

This is a place that is doing something miraculous for people like me who can't afford mental health care. And these people truly care. It shows. They're patient, friendly, and dependable. I honestly can't thank them enough. You've helped me restart my life.

Overall Experience

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