Embark Behavioral Health – Independence

Do not send your children here!!! They overbill insurance and you. While there I received hours of stick and poke tattoos on my hands(not once interrupted by staff), ran away and spent a night in woods, ran away again but never left campus(took hours to find me and then accused of assault by a staff member(later dismissed) but I was sent to JDC and then had to start over at a whole new facility where I successfully completed that program in 30 days. THEY ONLY CARE ABOUT THE MONEY.

Our 16-year-old son stayed at Embark Behavioral Health for one month last year. Looking back, we have mixed emotions. One disturbing incident was the vandalism of his room - someone urinated on his towel. He felt unsafe due to a flimsy door hanger that offered no privacy or security. Another major concern was the medical care. He was diagnosed with ADHD based on a two-page questionnaire and quickly prescribed medication, which caused visible tremors. Later, staff suggested he might have autism. This uncertainty prompted us to seek a full psychological evaluation at home, which ruled out both ADHD and ASD. Our son’s core issue was his video game addiction. Although he abstained during his stay, he quickly relapsed upon returning home. We were advised to sign a behavioral contract, but it proved ineffective. It wasn’t until we started working with a psychologist, who conducted a full assessment and helped us create clear rules and consequences, that we began to see change. The cost of that one-month stay was over $100,000, most of it paid by insurance. For that price, we expected high standards, especially in medical and therapeutic care. His therapist at Embark was kind and built rapport, but his approach was too liberal given our son’s needs. We followed all recommendations, yet saw no sustained progress once he came home. If we could do it over, we’d be more cautious, question the medical advice given, and avoid relying solely on Embark’s guidance. We share our story so others can make more informed decisions when seeking help for their children.

As a fellow mental health therapist, I recently had the distinct privilege of touring this Embark Behavioral Health campus, and I was genuinely impressed by what I saw and learned. My visit included an in-depth look at the residential hall, the impressive indoor gym, and the welcoming dining area, giving me a comprehensive understanding of their program and facilities. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, it was clear that Embark places a high priority on creating a well-maintained and therapeutic environment. The grounds were immaculate, and the buildings themselves gave a sense of calm and care, which is so crucial for individuals in residential treatment. The residential hall felt genuinely comfortable and safe, with spaces designed to promote both individual reflection and community building. The indoor gym was particularly noteworthy. It's clear they understand the vital role physical activity plays in mental well-being, and having such a well-equipped, accessible space indoors is a significant asset, especially during inclement weather. The dining area was also inviting, suggesting that mealtimes are viewed not just as sustenance, but as opportunities for connection and routine. Beyond the physical space, what truly stood out was the professionalism and knowledge of the staff I encountered. Everyone I met was incredibly nice, welcoming, and clearly dedicated to their roles. Their insights into the program were thorough and demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex needs of the adolescents they serve. It was evident that Embark is committed to evidence-based practices and a holistic approach to mental health treatment. Learning more about their specific program components, their focus on individualized care, and their commitment to family involvement further solidified my positive impression. As a mental health therapist, I recognize the immense importance of these elements in achieving lasting positive outcomes for young people. If I were ever in a position where I needed to send a child to a residential facility for mental health treatment, I would feel incredibly comfortable and confident considering Embark in Independence as a top option. Their well-maintained campus, dedicated and knowledgeable staff, and comprehensive program truly set a high standard for residential care.