Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center, Inc (The Guidance Center)

3111 S 70th St Fort Smith, AR 72903

Detox

Inpatient

Outpatient

About Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center, Inc (The Guidance Center)

Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center is a CARF accredited outpatient behavioral healthcare provider in Fort Smith, Arkansas. CARF accreditation indicates a commitment to quality care. They provide mental health counseling and treatment for substance use disorders. They may even tackle dual diagnosis conditions. This is when you’re experiencing both mental health and substance use issues. Specialized services are also available for youth aged 13 to 17.

Their staff are highly skilled and experienced in mental health and addiction therapy. I like that they prioritize individualized care because this tailors treatment to your unique needs. I also appreciate that they offer very affordable services with flexible funding options. This includes Medicaid, Medicare and various private insurance plans.

You can consider their outpatient services if you need flexible treatment for a mild to moderate substance use disorder. You’ll receive 72 hours of residential treatment in their crisis stabilization unit if you are experiencing serious mental health and substance use disorders.

Their outpatient program starts with substance use treatment and continues with individual and group therapy. Group therapy creates a supportive network that promotes learning with individuals who have experiences similar to yours. You’ll learn how to communicate effectively, manage your mood and build healthy relationships. This strengthens your coping and relapse prevention skills and allows you to better control negative behavioral patterns that fuel substance abuse.

They may offer medication assisted treatment (MAT) if relevant to your recovery. This technique uses FDA approved medicines and counseling to support recovery from opioid or alcohol addiction.

Their program integrates medication management to help those with dual diagnosis conditions. They also provide a court ordered education program for DUI and DWI offenders. Another cool thing about this facility is that their services include telehealth support. This means you can potentially receive therapeutic support from the comfort of your home. They also offer family counseling and case management services.

Once you complete treatment you may receive aftercare. This provides ongoing support for long term success. These services may include continued counseling, support groups and referrals to community resources.

Rehab Score

Our Methodology

Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full Methodology

5.8 / 10

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.

Sliding scale payments are based on a client's income and family size. The goal is to make treatment affordable to everyone. By taking these factors into account, addiction recovery care providers help ensure that your treatment does not become a financial burden to you or your family, eliminating one barrier to care.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Outpatient

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

Inpatient

Clients undergoing treatment at an inpatient rehab receive extensive therapeutic support through daily addiction counseling and recovery-focused services. These often include addiction education and life skills training. Many inpatient facilities also offer evidence-based holistic therapies, such as massage, yoga, acupuncture, creative arts therapy, and experiential therapy. Inpatient care is typically best suited for clients who recently completed detox, are in early recovery, or at a heightened risk of relapse.

Intensive Outpatient

Clients enrolled in intensive outpatient programs (IOP) may receive up to 20 hours of outpatient treatment per week, but a minimum of nine hours is standard. The intensity and frequency of treatment declines gradually as clients become more stable and prepare to transition to standard outpatient programs. Intensive outpatient treatments generally encompass a variety of modalities, including individual, group, and family therapy, recovery-focused life skills training, and medication assisted treatment (MAT).

12-Step

12 step programs are designed to foster participants' recovery through spiritual development, promoting healing in mind, body, and spirit. Participants engage in 12 step meetings, which are free, anonymous, and accessible daily, including evening, night, and weekend group sessions. Participants also self-select a sponsor to support them throughout their recovery journey. Though rooted in spiritual principles, participants do not have to be religiously-affiliated. Specialized formats, including gender and age-specific ones, are available.

Sober Living Homes

A sober living home in Arkansas provides a safe, sober-living scenario for those in recovery. If you have concerns about returning to daily life after treatment, this might be a good option for you to make a slower transition. You'll live with others in recovery, abide by strict halfway house rules, and maintain responsibilities through work and household chores. Your length of stay is flexible based on personal needs.

Intervention Services

A drug intervention in Arkansas is an organized effort made by the loved ones of a person who's struggling with substance abuse. The goal is to show the person how their addiction has negatively affected the lives of family and friends. While some loved ones plan an intervention on their own, it's best to rely on professional intervention services that are available. Involving an expert for insight and guidance can often increase the chances of success for the intervention.

Partial Hospitalization Program

As a short-term outpatient treatment option, a partial hospitalization program (PHP) is often beneficial for those who don't need 24-hour care. PHPs can be used as an alternative to inpatient hospitalization or as a step down from a residential program. For a minimum of 20 hours a week, you'll make a commute to the center and return home in the evening. During PHP treatment, you can receive medication management, relapse prevention strategies, and behavioral therapy interventions.

24-Hour Clinical Care

During many phases of addiction treatment, you'll need to receive 24-hour clinical care in Arkansas. This supervision ensures your safety during the detox process. Licensed medical professionals and experienced addiction specialists provide medication management, non-addictive medication to curb withdrawal symptoms, and frequent monitoring of vital signs.

Medically Assisted Detox

The process of a medically assisted detox is when all addictive substances are removed from your body. Usually performed in an inpatient setting, you are under the 24/7 care of licensed medical medical professionals who keep you safe and comfortable during the detoxification. Medications are often administered to help alleviate potential withdrawal symptoms.The process can vary in length, but it typically takes 5-7 days.

Programs

Adult Program

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.

Young Adult Program

Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

Military Program

Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Clinical Services

One of the most common types of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy in Arkansas is an effective tool for the treatment of substance use disorder. It is a common therapeutic method that is used to treat a variety of mental and behavioral health challenges.

Developed in the 1970s, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy based in cognitive behavior therapy. DBT is designed specifically to help people who experience emotions intensely. It is used to treat substance use disorder, anxiety, and depression, among other mental health disorders.

Group therapy offers men and women the opportunity to learn essential coping skills from their peers who have practiced these skills in the community. You learn new communication techniques and relapse prevention strategies that promote sobriety and sustainable recovery.

Individual therapy gives men and women in Arkansas the chance to engage in one on one therapy sessions that focus on identifying personal triggers and high risk situations for drug and alcohol addiction. Your therapist works together with you to develop coping strategies and build resilience that promotes sustainable recovery.

Motivational interviewing is a conversational approach to treatment. It helps you express your desire for change, reflect on any ambivalence you're feeling about change, and plan for the next steps to make the changes you desire.

The goal of trauma therapy is to address the lingering mental, emotional, and physical lingering effects of a traumatic event. Your therapist helps you process this trauma and build resilience to face future challenges.

If you participate in couples therapy, your therapist may use one or more methods to help you improve communication and resolve conflict. These techniques can include emotionally focused therapy, psychodynamic couple's therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Families in Arkansas use family therapy to enhance communication and understand the effect that addiction has on family members. The goal is to help members identify and modify negative behaviors and create a more cohesive and supportive environment that is conducive to recovery.

Developing life skills while undergoing rehab treatment in Arkansas is a crucial part of your recovery. During treatment, you may focus on learning communication skills, critical thinking skills, problem solving, self awareness, assertiveness, and coping skills.

Amenities

Residential Setting
Private Rooms

Accreditations

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.

CARF Accreditation: Yes

State Licenses are permits issued by government agencies that allow rehab organizations to conduct business legally within a certain geographical area. Typically, the kind of program a rehab facility offers, along with its physical location, determines which licenses are required to operate legally.

State License: Arkansas

Contact Information

(479) 452-6650

Website

3111 S 70th St
Fort Smith, AR 72903

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Reviews of Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center, Inc (The Guidance Center)

2.5/5 (92 reviews)

Google Reviews

2.5 (92 reviews)

Clara Ellingburg

4 weeks ago

My sister reached out to this office to schedule an appointment, and the front desk clerk responded with an unprofessional attitude, abruptly stating that they were closing. This individual's lack of proper phone etiquette and calmness only added unnecessary stress to an already challenging situation. It is unacceptable for someone in a role that requires compassion and support for individuals with mental health conditions to behave in such a disrespectful manner. Everyone deserves a respectful and understanding interaction, especially in sensitive circumstances like these. I am firmly stating that I will never recommend this office for any purpose, nor will I reach out to this facility for assistance in the future. I suggest that this facility considers reviewing and enhancing staff work etiquette. This could lead to improved collaboration and a more positive work environment.

Response from the owner3 weeks ago

Clara, You are absolutely correct that everyone deserves a respectful and understanding interaction when they are calling or coming into The Guidance Center for help. We apologize for falling below our acceptable standard of practices. We value our clients and our words and actions should reflect this. We would greatly appreciate your sister's help if she would be willing to contact us so we can gather some more information and look further into this particular situation. It would be of great benefit as to preventing this from happening in the future. She can reach us at 479-452-6650 or email our front office manager, Shea, at Shea.brown@wacgc.org.

Bryan Scrimsher

1 month ago

I don't mind sharing that I was in need of help to keep myself safe from myself on Thanksgiving 24. I am only giving a 4 star review for the fact that the emergency after hours line, both the local and 800 numbers, constantly rang busy for 30 min. So I called the Warm Line and got thru and talked with Patty for about 30 mins. Patty was so kind and encouraging and offered for me to come to the clinic if I felt like I needed to. After some crying and debating with myself I drove to the clinic in FS, but I didn't have the courage to walk in. Instead I sat in my car outside for about 45 min, crying, thinking, and praying. Then a wonderful lady, Ms Rachel, came out to my car in the cold and the wind. We talked for about 15 min outside before I realized it was cold and asked if we could keep talking inside, which was fine of course. So we went inside and I talked with Rachel for 3 hrs explaining my situation. She was so kind and attentive to me and my problems. She went so far as to make a phone call for me that needed to happen to get the closure that I needed and the answers I had been seeking. Ms. Rachel will never understand what she did for me that night.I decided to check myself in for a stay to make sure I was safe. Ryan was very kind and helpful, made me laugh, and made the check in as easy and comfortable as possible. Thank you Ryan.The next day the team helped me, from seeing an APRN in person, to an online counselor, which I really wish was in person, but I understand if that's the only option on that day. The rest of the staff is there to listen and to help you. I saw that repeatedly, not just with myself, but with other patients. I'm an observer, it's my nature, and I only saw care for people that day, even if sometimes it was tough love, after all they have a medical responsibility as well.I had a long talk with the cook, Joe I believe his name was, about his life and travels. This man went out of his way to ensure other patients ate like they needed to. He ain't a half bad cook either, but he'll tell you he ain't A Chef, lol.Thank you everyone at CSU. You helped me find some piece and come to terms with my situation. If the phone system kinks are worked out and solved, permanently, then I would gladly rate 5 stars. But the personnel proved to me that there are kind people in this world and I didn't have anything to offer in return except my sincerest, deepest, most heartfelt Thank You!!

Bryan, Your kind review of your experience at the CSU is much appreciated. I will be sure to pass along your compliments to our staff. Thank you for your leap of faith in allowing us to assist you during a trying time. All staff at the CSU take their clients mental health very seriously and consider it a privilege to assist in any way they can. At some time or another, we all need a little help. Hopefully sharing your experience will inspire others to ask for help when they are in need. We will follow up on the phone system kinks because we definitely don't want anyone else to experience a problem when contacting the 800 or local number. Thank you!

Brenton Vass

This place owes me a 207.00 dollars after screwing me on services rendered. Update was told several times Elizabeth from accounts payable would contact me it never happened just continue to get the run around.

Response from the owner2 months ago

Brenton, Please give Shea a call at 479-452-6650 so that we may address your review. Thank you! Our clients and their satisfaction are extremely important to us.

Kayla K McWha McCranie (Pooh Bear)

2 months ago

Kayla, We very much appreciate your 5-star review of The Guidance Center! Sharing your positive experience can play a part in others reaching out for help.

Enki Elohim

4 months ago

I hate that I live in a world where their are people who do not like there jobs. Met some awesome people too but for an establishment like this you would expect better.

Response from the owner4 months ago

Hello Enki, We do appreciate your review even though it s not something we like to hear. All clients are important to us, as are their experiences at The Guidance Center. Please call us at 479-452-6650 and ask for Shea. We cannot find your name in our system and genuinely want to know what happened that was less than top-notch.

Wildboy5699

6 months ago

I went up here a few times a couple of weeks ago. Most of the staff are extremely rude and act like they don t want to be there. I drove 30 minutes up there to finally see someone, which I had to talk to them over the webcam because they were too lazy to come up to the center that day, which she was also l extremely rude. When I finally got an appointment to finally see a therapist, it was either over the phone or drive another 30 minutes up there to talk to them on a webcam again. When I ask if there was a way I could see someone face to face and have a one on one session with a person who was standing right there in front of me. They told me that doesn t cover my insurance and if it did, it would take six to eight months to get one. So I told them to forget it and left. I will go find someone else.

Wildboy5699, We take our clients experiences very seriously so I am grateful you have made us aware of your experience, even though it was less than satisfactory. We would like to speak with you and gather more information. Please call Shea at 479-452-6650. I am making her aware that you will hopefully be calling. We apologize for your inconvenience to make a 30 minute drive if you were not able to see someone in person.

Charlotte

Some of these therapist are good. One "therapist" that is at the place needs to be fired and that would be donnie b. The therapist here are supposed work with parents to help their children but one of them doesn't he tells parents that the child's behavior is their fault and then gets the child taken away. So if you have any children that have behavioral issues or trouble with the law stay clear of this "therapist" he doesn't care about the children or their families.

Allysia Killion

Talked to someone at 10:04 and they told me to come on over. That they take walk ins until 11. I got there at 10:24 and the lady told me they stop taking people at 10. Left the building crying. It's too hard to get help.

Allysia, Unfortunately you were given the incorrect information over the phone about the time we stop taking walk-in appointments. We are truly sorry for this. We have gone back and made absolutely sure everyone is aware of this so it doesn't happen to someone else. We do suggest that all walk-ins show up as early as possible, because it is on a first-come first-served basis. If it is after walk-in hours, we will do an intake and schedule you. We sincerely apologize that you were misinformed.

Serena

Never really liked this place but had to come due to extenuating circumstances. They didn't have my referral, my appointment, or my chart info, and I waited two hours before being having to leave to go to another appointment. Shameful

Serena, We have researched what happened and we are sorry you were not able to see someone when you came in. Unfortunately, with no scheduled appointment, we must treat an encounter as a walk-in. All walk-ins are on a first-come first-served basis as the schedule allows. We are happy to talk more with you about your experience. You can contact us at 479-452-6650 and ask for Shea. Our clients are our top priority and we welcome the opportunity to speak with you more.

Crystal Reed

7 months ago

Response from the owner7 months ago

Crystal, our client s mental well being is the most important thing to us. We appreciate your 5 star review.

micah brooks

8 months ago

My aunt got sent here from the hospital and they told her there was no beds and she got taken to the homeless shelter and my grandmother the guardian of my aunt was never notified as she should have been and she was on the street for days before we found out what happened to her and someone forced her to do drugs and it was just horrible to see a person with a mental illness like that or be treated. She was never supposed to be in that place in the first place. Then they won't give my grandma any info on my aunt at all even though she is her legal guardian because she can't care for herself. It's so sad how people that need help can't get it without something always happening to them. If I could put 0 stars on the review I would.

Response from the owner8 months ago

Dear Micah, Please contact Jamie Ridgley, Director of the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU), at 479-784-9480. We are sorry to hear what happened with your family member. We take mental health and well-being very seriously, and we are not aware of the situation you have described. It is unfortunate that our community is in great demand of mental health treatment, and we do not always have availability of open beds at the CSU. We would appreciate your cooperation in helping us determine if we failed your family in any way. Thank you.

Brittany

If I could leave a third of a star I would. This is absolutely ridiculous!! Friday isn't Saturday yet, but here we are and you can't call or get through to save your life! It just says "line busy" it's been saying "line busy" for 4 hours now..I find that a little hard to believe. Not only that but if you have any DHS referrals just know that these people already have preconceived notions. They have already decided what they're going to do before they assess you. Total sham! If you can avoid this place I would. If you have any referrals I would deeply suggest that you have them send the referrals ANYWHERE but the fort Smith Arkansas Western guidance center. Even if you got to drive all the way to a far out city. I feel like it's well worth it!! Deal with honest people and you'll have honest results.

Brittany, As we discussed on Friday, we should have made our phone outage known through our social media. We apologize for the inconvenience this caused you and our clients. Thank you for visiting with me about the other things you noted in your review of The Guidance Center. We appreciate the opportunity to listen, discuss, and correct anything we can to provide the best possible outcomes for all clients. Your information and well-being are valued.

Overall Experience

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