ABOUT BETHEL COLONY OF MERCY IN LENOIR, NC
Bethel Colony of Mercy, located in Lenoir, N.C., offers residential treatment to men struggling with substance abuse. It is a 65-day non-denominational Christian program that teaches “victory over sin through Jesus Christ and the Bible.” The facility does this through classroom teaching, audio tapes, counseling both onsite and online, homework, worship services and work projects. Bethel Colony of Mercy was founded in 1948.
TREATMENT & ASSESSMENT
The facility describes its treatment program as a “Bible teaching ministry for those interested in a Christian approach to treating substance abuse and alcoholism.” Clients may fax a completed application to the facility or may complete an application over the phone. They must also submit the results of two blood tests (HIV and TB). Programming is set for 65 days, but can be extended for 30 more days if deemed necessary by a pastor.
Throughout treatment, clients receive individual Christian counseling by a trained staff counselor. Participants do not receive medication. Staff must approve all visitors. Only parents, wives, children, and fiancees “engaged with a ring” may visit. Visitation hours occur each weekend, and wives may attend counseling sessions if desired. Families are encouraged to attend church services with the client.
Treatment days at Bethel Colony of Mercy follow a highly structured schedule. Beginning at 6:30 a.m., men partake in full days of Bible study, prayer/devotion, and work assignments. With dinner and quiet time in the evening, men are sure to get a full night of rest. The facility’s disciplined schedules also include time for basketball, volleyball, softball, horseshoes, an occasional hike, and T.V. (with viewing limited to sports, news, nature and religion).
The facility does not provide information about whether aftercare is available for clients who complete the program.
STAFF CREDENTIALS
The treatment team consists of five pastors who hold teaching and counseling roles at Bethel Colony of Mercy. Their education and experience consists of Biblical studies and divinity degrees, business administration, missions, and various trades.
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
The facility offers 82 beds for adult male clients. Bethel Colony of Mercy consists of a complex of modest, attractive buildings overlooking the peaceful Blue Ridge Mountains. The facility has a chapel, administrative offices, gym, weight room, recreation areas and student dorms. Clients at this facility are not allowed the use of electronic devices, and smoking is discouraged but permitted in designated areas.
REVIEWS
At the time of this writing, there have been no individuals polled by Best-rehabs.com
On the facility’s Facebook page, which it can manage, there is an overall rating of 4.8 out of five stars based on 221 total reviews.[1] The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many alumni and family members commenting that the spiritual aspect of the program was particularly life-changing for them or their loved ones. Family member E.S., who gave five stars, said that her father had been transformed “from the inside out.” She wrote “While the battle has just begun (for everyone that chooses sobriety and enters “the real world”), daddy is now equipped with the skills and tools he needs to fight the good fight.” C.C., another reviewer, did not agree with that viewpoint. She gave one star and wrote, “Bethel practically beats the addict/alcoholic into submission with a bible, completely disregarding how archaic the method is, and dismisses all other methods that have the potential of truly saving a person’s life.”
FINANCING
The cost of treatment at the facility is $250 for the 65-day period. The facility does not accept insurance. Bethel Colony of Mercy offers scholarships to cover partial payment from time to time, depending on donations received. Clients are encouraged to contact the facility directly for additional information regarding the entry fee.
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