First at Blue Ridge Inc. is a residential therapeutic community located in Ridgecrest, North Carolina, east of Asheville on Interstate 40. The facility is situated on a campus with a five-story residential building for men, a sixty-five bed women’s facility, and additional administrative, mechanical, landscaping, and transitional housing residences. The primary purpose of First at Blue Ridge is to provide a comprehensive treatment program for individuals struggling with chronic substance use disorders, homelessness, unemployment, and involvement with the criminal justice system.
Key Services and Programs
Long-Term Program
The long-term program is a 12-month residential treatment program that includes clinical groups, self-help meetings, and vocational training. Clients participate in “Phase One” to acclimate to the program, followed by “Phase Two,” where they work job assignments, attend self-help meetings, and evening clinical groups to develop healthy habits and work skills.
Vocational Training and Job Placement
First at Blue Ridge partners with local employers to provide vocational training and job placement opportunities for clients. This helps them develop marketable job skills and maintain gainful employment during and after the program.
Transitional Housing
The facility offers transitional housing for clients who have completed the long-term program. This allows them to establish a firm foundation for independent living while still receiving support and guidance.
Short-Term Intensive Programs
First at Blue Ridge offers short-term intensive programs ranging from 14 to 90 days for individuals who cannot commit to long-term treatment due to employment or family responsibilities.
Levels of Care
- Residential: First at Blue Ridge provides a residential treatment program where clients live on campus and participate in a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Transitional Housing: The facility offers transitional housing for clients who have completed the long-term program, allowing them to gradually transition to independent living.
Staff and Expertise
The facility is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and has a team of qualified staff members who provide guidance and support to clients. While specific staff qualifications are not detailed, the facility’s peer-led and peer-driven approach ensures that staff members have personal experience with addiction and recovery.
Treatment Approach
First at Blue Ridge follows a 12-step based, modified therapeutic community approach with an intensive clinical overlay. The facility emphasizes the importance of active participation in self-help recovery groups, including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery, SMART Recovery, and Refuge Recovery. The program focuses on providing “real-world” responsibilities and skills to help clients become productive members of society.
Unique Features
- Vocational Training Partnerships: First at Blue Ridge has partnerships with local employers to provide vocational training and job placement opportunities, setting it apart from other treatment facilities.
- Peer-Led and Peer-Driven Approach: The facility’s peer-led and peer-driven approach ensures that staff members have personal experience with addiction and recovery, providing a unique and empathetic support system for clients.
Accreditations and Quality Measures
First at Blue Ridge is a licensed therapeutic community in the State of North Carolina and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Admission Process and Insurance
The admission process involves screening and assessment by the Admissions Department. While specific insurance information is not provided, the facility offers scholarships for those who cannot afford the program fee. For inquiries, contact the Admissions Department at 828-669-0011 ext. 1106 or ext. 1111, or Cell# 828-337-1153. Fax: 828-669-0596.
