Phoenix Counseling Center- Gastonia Inpatient

“staff talks about clients smell and don't use the body wash. but then I watch clients ask for new clothing items and they try to say they don't have the size the client is asking for. They act mad when they actually have to do something. The staff really does nothing but watch the clients and then get mad when they ask them one question for help. they should get more staff that really want to do there job.”

“My daughter was sent here by her first PO disorganized and uninformed from her first scheduled appointment. Timeline… we arrived, Front desk had zero idea who she was and why she was there…was told they did not take her insurance. She could not be treated there. How can you not be treated when sent by your PO, waited 2 hours, the person assigned to do her assessment was not in the office. After 2 hours a case worker appeared stating she had a grant for her treatment and the one to do her assessment is on the way or may do it virtually. Next issue…transportation… may show up or not, if they do, driver is rude and drives unsafe…for a fact the driver would not respond from her number to confirm however he did from mine. Then supposedly coordinated newly Medicaid benefits…my daughter was told they would “do that for her” first plan had to be switched to another one for coverage of what she needed. Was told she had to complete detox there and would then be transported to another facility…then told wasn’t “approved” sent her back to PHP which went well until it was brought to the attention of Phoenix my daughter was given illicit drugs from another client in their program. Now they have seemed to backtrack and are doing their best to put blame in her for relapsing. I was told after that she should not go outside for breaks so she won’t be tempted…there should be NO temptation to begin with. The only employee there is Amber, who seems to have her heart in it. She worked tirelessly to advocate for my daughter. I thought another counselor cared as much, however that has seemed to be proven different. Phoenix needs better management, from the owner, CEO, etc. Definitely do not allow clients to peddle drugs and most certainly do not need to allow vagrants to live in the woods behind the facility to harass and take advantage of anyone trying to better themselves. In all honesty my daughter’s path to recovery has been derailed by being at Phoenix. Not only does she have substance abuse disorder she has been formally and clinically diagnosed with severe mental illness and intellectual disabilities, outside of Phoenix. This is NOT a facility equipped for her needs.”

“I am absolutely appalled by the treatment my loved one received when they were denied care simply because they tested positive for meth. This is unacceptable. Speaking with the front desk clerk only added to my disbelief when they refused to provide any helpful information. I understand the need for policies and procedures, but there is no excuse for turning individuals away when they are in need of medical help. This is a serious problem contributing to the increase in overdose rates. We must demand better from our healthcare providers and organizations. Those who cannot be part of the solution should seriously consider a career change. We need to do better and be better humans. Period.”

“I just wanted to share that this place is a God-sent. I was there a few days ago and although my son was lacking some info, he had an episode and needless to say everyone was attentive and helpful. They had awesome counselors, great receptionist that made sure my younger son and I was calm and kept us with refreshments, and people that actually cared. They helped me come up with a solution and was willing to see it through. I'm so grateful to the people there and if I could've given them 10*** I would've. The lady counselor talked so calm and relaxed to him which relaxed me. The man counselor the same result. He got my son to relax and trust him which I hadn't been able to do. I owe you all so much. Everyone helped us. Our whole family with just giving us a few minutes of time. Now we are on the right path for change!!”