Riverbend Center

“I swear I have to swap doctors every few months bc they either leave or don’t take my insurance anymore or this or that. I hardly ever see my actual dr just the ones whom I assume are new to the profession and “training” so to speak. Nurses never call you back, they’ve recently sent in the wrong prescription and I’ve been trying to have it fixed and they seem to be “too busy” for my voice messages.”

“I come back once a year to the US. I have medical records from the US to show meds and treatment I’ve been on (never told them diagnosis or exact meds). They told me I could only see a “therapist” for the first month and then see a psychiatrist after a month. This is Alabama, they have nothing better to do than wait a month?”

“This place is the absolute worst. There are limited places in Florence so it was over a decade of "its better than nothing" service for me. And I know Im not alone inthat. The nurses are very nice but they cant keep psychiatrists. I only saw nurse practioners for two years post Covid. Ive heard and witnessed such sad treatment just sharing stories with other patients in the waiting room. But again, there are limited places. So, if you ned to go, go. But trust your instincts. Dont let anyone treat you poorly or disregard the help you need. Take care of yourself and good luck. We deserve better.”

“Disappointing Facility, Exceptional Therapist As someone who has sought support and assistance for mental health issues, my experience at Riverbend left much to be desired. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I couldn't shake the feeling of dissatisfaction. Firstly, the facility itself felt outdated and neglected. The ambiance was sterile and unwelcoming, contributing to an atmosphere of discomfort rather than healing. The waiting area lacked comfort and privacy, making it challenging to relax before appointments. Moreover, the administrative staff seemed disorganized and indifferent. Scheduling appointments was a nightmare, with long wait times both on the phone and in person. It was frustrating to navigate the bureaucracy just to get the help I needed. However, amidst this sea of disappointment, there was one shining beacon of hope: my therapist, Julie James. She was the saving grace of my experience at Riverbend. Julie James was empathetic, understanding, and truly dedicated to helping me navigate my mental health struggles. She listened attentively, offering insightful perspectives and practical coping strategies. Her professionalism and genuine concern for my well-being were evident in every session. Despite the shortcomings of the facility itself, Julie James made every effort to create a safe and supportive environment for our sessions. Her expertise and compassionate approach were invaluable to my journey towards healing. While I cannot recommend Riverbend as a whole, I wholeheartedly endorse Julie Ellis James. Although Julie James has transitioned from her practice at Riverbend, I highly recommend reaching out to her if you're seeking a therapist. I can assure you that you'll be in the compassionate and capable care of someone like her.”