ABOUT FIRST AT BLUE RIDGE, INC.
First at Blue Ridge, Inc. has been providing treatment for individuals and communities affected by chronic substance abuse in North Carolina since 1991. Located in Ridgecrest, east of Asheville, this state-licensed nonprofit offers evidence-based treatment options for men, women, and Veterans of service.
The facility does not specify if it offers medically managed detox services.
TREATMENT & ASSESSMENT
First at Blue Ridge aims to instill “real world” responsibilities while addressing underlying issues through its four voluntary treatment programs. These programs include vocational training, 12-step programs, life skills training, and addiction groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and other evidence-based therapies are utilized to help individuals develop self-respect.
The Short Term Program is designed for individuals with court-ordered charges or those unable to commit to a longer stay. It includes clinical assessments, educational groups and seminars, and transportation to community support groups. Participants are expected to fully participate in Phase One throughout their stay of 30 days or longer.
The Long Term Program allows clients to develop work skills through a program-contracted job. After 10 months, clients who have successfully completed the program may apply for “re-entry” and move back into the community for work. Graduates of the program may also have the opportunity for transitional housing for up to a year to solidify their gains made in treatment.
The Women and Children FIRST program provides a supportive environment for women with children, as well as pregnant and non-pregnant women who have experienced incarceration and/or domestic violence. The facility also offers short-term intensive residential treatment options of various lengths for women.
The Vets FIRST program, funded by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), provides substance abuse treatment, work placement opportunities, and options for advancing education to Veterans over a period of 24 months. Veterans who establish themselves at work may transition into the nonprofit’s veteran cottages, a transitional housing program with an additional monthly fee.
STAFF CREDENTIALS
The majority of FIRST staff members are either program graduates or former interns from local universities and colleges. Staff are available on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
First at Blue Ridge’s residential building can accommodate up to 85 men, 65 women, 20 Veterans, and 25 transitional housing clients at any given time.
WHAT ALUMNI SAY
One alum, who is also a Veteran, found treatment more challenging than expected due to living with a large group of women. However, they praised the respectful and well-trained staff and expressed willingness to reenter treatment if needed. The treatment center has received an average rating of 3.3 out of five stars from seven individuals who reviewed it on Google. Positive reviews highlight the establishment of a recovery foundation and a new way of living, while negative reviews mention difficulties in contacting the center or excessive workload.
The treatment center has received an average rating of 4.4 out of five stars from 42 individuals on its Facebook page. Many reviewers credit the center with saving their lives and speak positively about their experiences in recovery.
WHAT FRIENDS & FAMILY SAY
A loved one of a client gave positive feedback, rating the treatment effectiveness, treatment of co-occurring disorders, and the likelihood of recommending the treatment center with five stars. They also described the facility as clean and mentioned the client’s progress in leadership roles.
FINANCING
The nonprofit receives funding from vocational training partners, grants, and government contracts. Clients in the long-term program pay an initial fee upon admission, and sliding scale fees, payment plans, and scholarships are available for those in need.
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