Black Bear Lodge

Verified Center

This provider's information has been quality-checked by Recovery.com's Research Team for accuracy and completeness, including center verification through appropriate third-party organizations.

Substance Use

Treatment Focus

This center treats substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Your treatment plan addresses each condition at once with personalized, compassionate care for comprehensive healing.

Residential

Primary Level of Care

Offering intensive care with 24/7 monitoring, residential treatment is typically 30 days and can cover multiple levels of care. Length can range from 14 to 90 days typically.

3.8
(205)
Insurance

Provider's Policy

We are not able to accept Medicaid and Medicare. We have a specialized team that works with insurance companies on a day-to-day basis to determine coverage and ensure that patients get the coverage they are entitled to based on their policy. When you call us, we can verify your insurance benefits at no cost and explain what your policy covers.

At the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Black Bear Lodge offers a retreat for clients seeking recovery from addiction. With options for residential and outpatient treatment and a focus on client-centered treatment, Black Bear’s team empowers clients to heal mind, body, and spirit in an inspiring, peaceful setting.

Discover Life beyond the Diagnosis

Black Bear Lodge encourages clients to live bigger than their diagnosis– to find satisfaction and fulfillment outside of self-medication. Their programs are rooted in strong clinical methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and group counseling. At the same time, they embrace practices like yoga and mindfulness, as well as nature-based therapies like hiking, and zip-lining. Led by a multidisciplinary team, Black Bear’s personalized care is as effective as it is empathetic.

Understand Addiction and Repair with Family

Black Bear Lodge recognizes the pivotal role of family in the recovery process, so they provide family mediation services to guide families through healing, teaching effective communication and boundary-setting. Along with learning skills to produce a better family dynamic, the family learns to understand addiction’s impact and support their loved one without enabling them. They also learn to embrace acceptance as a crucial part of loving their family member well.

Heal in the Heart of the Forest

Black Bear Lodge offers more than just treatment—it’s a retreat for renewal. Each room at the lodge is cozy, providing the perfect spaces for connection and relaxation. The lush forest surroundings invite clients to unwind with therapeutic hikes on scenic trails, where nature becomes part of the recovery process. From inviting indoor lounges including an on-site theater to tranquil outdoor spaces, Black Bear Lodge feels less like a facility and more like a haven.

Black Bear Lodge thumbnail

Highlights from the Center

Highlights

These highlights are provided by and paid for by the center.

  • Nature Lovers

  • Therapeutic Location

  • Residential Cabins

  • Addiction Recovery

AT A GLANCE

Center Overview

Location
310 Black Bear Ridge, Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571 View Map
Primary Focus
This center treats substance use disorders and co-occurring mental healt...

Treatment Focus

This center treats substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Your treatment plan addresses each condition at once with personalized, compassionate care for comprehensive healing.

Accreditation
Joint Commission

Joint Commission Accredited

The Joint Commission accreditation is a voluntary, objective process that evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations (like treatment centers) based on performance standards designed to improve quality and safety for patients. To be accredited means the treatment center has been found to meet the Commission's standards for quality and safety in patient care.

Typical Program Length
30+ days
Founded in 2014
12 years in business
Occupancy
50+ beds
Conditions We Treat
ADHD, ADD, Anger, Anxiety, Bipolar +13 More
Substance Use We Treat
Alcohol, Benzodiazepines, Chronic Relapse, Co-Occurring Disorders +12 More
Black Bear Lodge logo

(844) 508-0035

Part of the Universal Health Services network.
Testimonial
Black Bear Lodge has without a doubt changed my life for the better. I’ve been shown that life is enjoyable without drugs or alcohol, I’ve been given hope that I can live a sober and fulfilling life. I can’t thank the therapists, nurses, the RA’s, and the staff enough for caring about me the way they do.
LB
Landon B
How to pay

Insurance Accepted

BlueCross BlueShield
United Healthcare
Aetna
Cigna
Anthem
Tricare
Humana
Provider's Policy: We are not able to accept Medicaid and Medicare. We have a specialized team that works with insurance companies on a day-to-day basis to determine coverage and ensure that patients get the coverage they are entitled to based on their policy. When you call us, we can verify your insurance benefits at no cost and explain what your policy covers.
(844) 508-0035
Rebuild the Family Unit
Rebuild the Family Unit
Addiction doesn't just impact one person—it affects the entire family. At Black Bear Lodge, they delve into crucial topics: Week 1 explores the disease of addiction, MAT, co-occurring disorders, and neurobiology. Week 2 focuses on co-dependency and setting healthy boundaries. Week 3 covers aftercare strategies, while Week 4 emphasizes family agreements, self-care for support systems, and essential resources.
Experience Home Away from Home
Experience Home Away from Home
In the peaceful foothills of northern Georgia, each room is designed to be welcoming, giving clients a place to relax and recharge after a day of inner work. The lodge feels like a retreat with its inviting indoor lounges and a theater where clients can unwind and watch a movie. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, their atmosphere helps create a sense of belonging, making the journey to recovery feel a little easier and a lot more supportive.
Heal Beyond Traditional Therapy
Heal Beyond Traditional Therapy
At Black Bear Lodge, nature becomes a powerful ally in recovery. Therapeutic hiking and outdoor meditations transform healing from a clinical process into a holistic journey of self-discovery. By engaging with the serene landscapes of northern Georgia, clients can explore personal growth, reduce stress, and develop mindfulness skills in a natural setting.
Tackle Root Causes for Better Outcomes
Tackle Root Causes for Better Outcomes
At Black Bear Lodge, dual diagnosis care is tailored to address both addiction and mental health disorders simultaneously. Their expert team conducts thorough assessments to create treatment plans that tackle issues like depression, anxiety, and personality disorders alongside substance use. Using evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), clients gain valuable insights and coping strategies.

Recovery.com Verified Listing

Recovery.com verified that the name, location, contact information and license to operate for this treatment provider are valid and up-to-date.

Joint Commission Accredited

Joint Commission Accredited

Licensed by Georgia

Licensed by Georgia

NAATP Member

NAATP Member

Recovery.com is an independent, third-party mental health resource. Verification does not imply endorsement and does not guarantee the quality of treatment services.

Staff

Meet Your Care Team

Lynn Echols

Lynn Echols

CEO

MSN, RN

Jennifer Hoodecheck

Jennifer Hoodecheck

Clinical Director

LCSW, MAC

Matthew Partain

Matthew Partain

Director of Admissions

Vince Foley

Vince Foley

Regional Human Resources Director

Treatment

Your Care Options

Specializations

Access to Nature
Adventure Therapy

Adventure Therapy

This experiential approach uses the physical and emotional challenges of outdoor activities as tools for personal growth.

Alcohol

Alcohol

Using alcohol as a coping mechanism, or drinking excessively throughout the week, signals an alcohol use disorder.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-Occurring Disorders

A person with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as addiction and depression, has co-occurring disorders also called dual diagnosis.

Drug Addiction

Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is the excessive and repetitive use of substances, despite harmful consequences to a person's life, health, and relationships.

Veterans

Veterans

Patients who completed active military duty receive specialized treatment focused on trauma, grief, loss, and finding a new work-life balance.

Residential

Residential

In a residential rehab program, patients live onsite, with access to daily treatment and 24-hour care. An average stay is 30-90 days.

First Responders Program

First Responders Program

Paramedics, police officers, firefighters, and others join in a specific First Responders program, usually focused on trauma, grief, and work-life balance.

Who We Treat

Men
Women
Executives

Executives

Executive treatment programs typically directly support the needs of people who manage businesses and may provide flexible schedules and office space to allow work during treatment.

LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+

Addiction and mental illnesses in the LGBTQ+ community must be treated with an affirming, safe, and relevant approach, which many centers provide.

Men and Women

Men and Women

Men and women attend treatment for addiction in a co-ed setting, going to therapy groups together to share experiences, struggles, and successes.

Mild Disabilities

Mild Disabilities

Adults with mild physical or intellectual disabilities receive treatment catered to their specific needs in a safe and clinically supportive environment.

Pregnant Women

Pregnant Women

Addiction and mental health treatment meets the clinical and psychological needs of pregnant women, ensuring they receive optimal care in all areas.

Professionals

Professionals

Busy, high-ranking professionals get the personalized treatment they need with greater accommodations for work, privacy, and outside communication.

Veterans

Veterans

Patients who completed active military duty receive specialized treatment focused on trauma, grief, loss, and finding a new work-life balance.

Treatment Services

Accepts Patients with Prescribed Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

Accepts Patients with Prescribed Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

The provider accepts patients with prescribed medications for addiction treatment, also known as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), for alcohol use.

Accepts Patients with Prescribed Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Accepts Patients with Prescribed Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

The provider accepts patients with prescribed medications for addiction treatment, also known as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), for opioid use.

Day Treatment

Day Treatment

In a PHP, patients live at home but follow an intensive schedule of treatment. Most programs require you to be on-site for about 40 hours per week.

Detox

Detox

Detox fully and safely removes toxic substances from the body, allowing the next steps in treatment to begin with a clean slate.

Intensive Family Program

Intensive Family Program

Some rehabs offer intensive programs for loved ones. Group and individual therapy sessions help everyone heal, and improve family dynamics.

Intensive Outpatient Program

Intensive Outpatient Program

In an IOP, patients live at home or a sober living, but attend treatment typically 9-15 hours a week. Most programs include talk therapy, support groups, and other methods.

Outpatient

Outpatient

During outpatient rehab, patients attend a structured treatment program while continuing to live at home.

Outpatient Therapy
Prescribes Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Prescribes Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

The provider prescribes medications for addiction treatment, also known as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), for opioid use.

Approaches

Evidence-Based

Evidence-Based

A combination of scientifically rooted therapies and treatments make up evidence-based care, defined by their measured and proven results.

Experiential

Experiential

Expressive tools and therapies help patients process past situations, learn more about themselves, and find healing through action.

Family Involvement

Family Involvement

Providers involve family in the treatment of their loved one through family therapy, visits, or both–because addiction is a family disease.

Personalized Treatment

Personalized Treatment

The specific needs, histories, and conditions of individual patients receive personalized, highly relevant care throughout their recovery journey.

Therapies

1-on-1 Counseling

1-on-1 Counseling

Patient and therapist meet 1-on-1 to work through difficult emotions and behavioral challenges in a personal, private setting.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

This cognitive behavioral therapy teaches patients to accept challenging feelings and make the appropriate changes to reach personal goals.

Adventure Therapy

Adventure Therapy

This experiential approach uses the physical and emotional challenges of outdoor activities as tools for personal growth.

Art Therapy

Art Therapy

Visual art invites patients to examine the emotions within their work, focusing on the process of creativity and its gentle therapeutic power.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Experiential Therapy

Experiential Therapy

With this approach, patients heal by doing. Therapists help patients process difficult emotions to speak, using guided activities like art or dance.

Family Therapy

Family Therapy

Family therapy addresses group dynamics within a family system, with a focus on improving communication and interrupting unhealthy relationship patterns.

Group Therapy

Languages

English

Conditions We Treat

ADHD, ADD

ADHD, ADD

ADHD is a common mental health condition caused by dopamine imbalance. Common symptoms include inattention, hyperactivitiy, and impulsivity.

Anger

Anger

Although anger itself isn't a disorder, it can get out of hand. If this feeling interferes with your relationships and daily functioning, treatment can help.

Anxiety

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can include excessive worry, panic attacks, physical tension, and increased blood pressure.

Bipolar

Bipolar

This mental health condition is characterized by extreme mood swings between depression, mania, and remission.

Burnout

Burnout

Burnout entails mental and physical exhaustion, and leads to a severe lack of fulfillment. This condition is often caused by overwork.

Chronic Pain Management

Chronic Pain Management

Long-term physical pain can have an affect on mental health. Without support, it can also impact your daily life and even lead to addiction.

Depression

Depression

Symptoms of depression may include fatigue, a sense of numbness, and loss of interest in activities. This condition can range from mild to severe.

Grief and Loss

Grief and Loss

Grief is a natural reaction to loss, but severe grief can interfere with your ability to function. You can get treatment for this condition.

Narcissism

Substances We Treat

Alcohol

Alcohol

Using alcohol as a coping mechanism, or drinking excessively throughout the week, signals an alcohol use disorder.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep issues. They are highly habit forming, and their abuse can cause mood changes and poor judgement.

Chronic Relapse

Chronic Relapse

Consistent relapse occurs repeatedly, after partial recovery from addiction. This condition requires long-term treatment.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-Occurring Disorders

A person with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as addiction and depression, has co-occurring disorders also called dual diagnosis.

Cocaine

Cocaine

Cocaine is a stimulant with euphoric effects. Agitation, muscle ticks, psychosis, and heart issues are common symptoms of cocaine abuse.

Drug Addiction

Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is the excessive and repetitive use of substances, despite harmful consequences to a person's life, health, and relationships.

Ecstasy

Ecstasy

Ecstasy is a stimulant that causes intense euphoria and heightened awareness. Abuse of this drug can trigger depression, insomnia, and memory problems.

Heroin

Heroin

Heroin is a highly addictive and illegal opioid. It can cause insomnia, collapsed veins, heart issues, and additional mental health issues.

Marijuana

Aftercare

Aftercare App
Outpatient Treatment
Alumni Reunions
Private, Online Alumni Groups
Support Meetings (on-site)
Relapse Prevention Planning
Ability to Call a Counselor
Recovery Retreats
Follow-up Sessions (online)
Experience

Care Designed for Your Needs

Personal Amenities

Air-Conditioned Rooms
Armchair or Sofa
Desk
En Suite Bathroom
Housekeeping
Jacuzzi
Kitchenette
Laundry Service
Outdoor Space (connected to room)

Amenities

Access to Nature
Fitness Center
Gourmet Dining
Internet
Chef-prepared Meals
Outdoor Lounge
Recreation Room
Walking Trails

Special Considerations

Dietary Accommodations
Vegetarian
Family Program
Kosher
COVID-19 Measures
Gender-specific groups

Gender-specific groups

Patients in gender-specific groups gain the opportunity to discuss challenges unique to their gender in a comfortable, safe setting conducive to healing.

LGBTQ group

LGBTQ group

Group therapy unites LGBTQ+ patients in a safe and culturally competent setting, encouraging peer support under the expert leadership of a therapist.

Healthy Meals are provided

Healthy Meals are provided

Great food meets great treatment, with providers serving healthy meals to restore nutrition, wellbeing, and health.

Wheelchair Accessible

Activities

Yoga

Yoga

Yoga is both a physical and spiritual practice. It includes a flow of movement, breathing techniques, and meditation.

AA/NA Meetings
Hiking
Movies
Physical Fitness
Ropes Course

Off-Site Activities

Swimming
Ziplining
River Rafting
Alternative Meetings
Water Activities
AA/NA Meetings
Sightseeing
Adventure Outings
Hiking

Off-Site Amenities

Walking Trails
Airport Transfers
Reviews

What people are saying

3.8
Average of 205 reviews

Treatment

3.3

Accommodations

4.1

Food & Nutrition

3.5

Value

3.8

D

Dannie

Reviewed 05/19/25

5.0

Review from Rehabs.com

I went to Blackberry Lodge twice and they definitely saved my life. Recognition to the RA's Tilly, Jessica S., Haley. Also Tiffany V., Jessica G. These staff members always took time out to help no matter how busy they were.
N

N

Reviewed 06/03/18

4.0

Review from Rehabs.com

I was at Black Bear in 2016. I went to Black Bear with the sole purpose to get better. I wanted come out a better person so I could be a better man, friend, son, uncle etc. I was not concerned with living without a cell phone, Tv, or internet. If you truly want to get your life back you can do it here if you are willing. I didn’t do exactly what they said, but I was able to take something from each session and create my own plan and it’s working for me. My accommodations were good. The facility was beautiful, and the food was satisfactory.
A

Anonymous

Reviewed 05/29/15

5.0

Review from Rehabs.com

Strengths included: dual diagnosis treatment incorporating varied methods, up date research based therapy as well as traditional therapy. They also begin planning and working with patient aftercare very early in therapy. They also accomodate to whatever suits patient's preference. In addition, they communicate well with family. As a parent, I have been very very happy with staff, treatment therapy and overall care. After 2 prior treatment facilities, this one is by far the superior according to patient.
G

GL

Reviewed 05/29/15

5.0

Review from Rehabs.com

Black bear changed my life! I would recommend it to anyone. Staff cares, amazing food, atmosphere, location! However, medication was dispensed in detox and they only offered 12 step recovery.
M

MLG

Reviewed 05/05/15

5.0

Review from Rehabs.com

Every one of these categories should be 5 stars. This place saved my life. The therapy and medicine management is unparalleled. After many, many years of trying to change my life and stop feeling absolutely insane, this place saved my life. A year later and I am still sober and living a life I never believed I would ever live. Comparing myself before Black Bear and after, the saying "night and day" doesn't even cut it. It is more like "Tuesday and Blue" because the person I was and the person I am now isn't comparable at all.

We love hearing about your treatment experience

Center Location

Find Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Further Research

The following therapies are included: seeking safety, spiritual care and more.
Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia, United States.
We are not able to accept Medicaid and Medicare. We have a specialized team that works with insurance companies on a day-to-day basis to determine coverage and ensure that patients get the coverage they are entitled to based on their policy. When you call us, we can verify your insurance benefits at no cost and explain what your policy covers.
The typical length is 30+ days.
Yes, they offer detox.
Black Bear Lodge provides residential, outpatient therapy and more.