Struggling with substance use can feel isolating and overwhelming, but recovery is possible, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Among the many insurance providers with addiction coverage, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee (BCBS TN) stands out as a compassionate partner in your recovery journey. If you have a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee insurance plan, it should cover at least part of substance use disorder treatment. Since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in 2014, health insurance policies have been required to cover treatment for mental health conditions and substance use disorders, and BCBS Tennessee has embraced this responsibility with dedication to its members’ well-being.
Understanding BCBS Tennessee Insurance and Your Benefits
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee has been a trusted healthcare partner for Tennessee residents for decades, serving hundreds of thousands of individuals and families across the state. As one of the leading insurance providers with addiction coverage in Tennessee, BCBS TN understands that addiction is a medical condition that deserves the same level of care and attention as any other health issue.
When you’re considering treatment for substance use disorder, it’s essential to understand that your BCBS Tennessee plan is designed to support your journey to recovery. The company recognizes that seeking help takes tremendous courage, and they’ve structured their benefits to make treatment both accessible and affordable for their members.
BCBS of Tennessee insurance will typically cover the cost of drug and alcohol addiction rehab treatment as needed. Since mental health services and substance abuse rehab are considered essential health benefits, most plans will provide some level of coverage as many times as medically necessary.
What BCBS Tennessee Covers for Addiction Treatment
BCBS Tennessee plans provide comprehensive coverage for substance use disorders, ensuring that you have access to all levels of care throughout your recovery journey. Your Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee insurance plan will provide coverage for SUD treatment in some capacity for various substances such as alcohol, cocaine, and opioids.
Medical Detox
Medical detoxification, which is often the first step in addiction treatment, is covered under most BCBS Tennessee plans. This medically supervised process helps you safely withdraw from substances while managing potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. During this phase, you’ll have access to 24/7 medical monitoring and FDA-approved medications to ease discomfort and ensure your safety.
Inpatient/Residential Rehab
Inpatient Treatment Programs: For those requiring intensive, round-the-clock care, BCBS Tennessee covers inpatient residential treatment programs. These programs provide a structured environment where you can focus entirely on your recovery without the distractions and triggers of daily life. The residential setting allows for immersive therapeutic work while you’re surrounded by compassionate professionals who understand your journey.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
Outpatient Treatment Programs: BCBS Tennessee also covers outpatient treatment programs, offering flexibility for those who need to maintain work, family, or educational responsibilities while receiving treatment. These programs include intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), providing varying levels of support based on your specific needs. The beauty of outpatient care is that it allows you to apply what you’re learning in treatment to your daily life while still having professional support.
Individual Therapy Sessions:
Individual Therapy Sessions: Recognizing that therapy is the cornerstone of effective addiction treatment, BCBS Tennessee includes coverage for individual therapy sessions with licensed clinicians who specialize in addiction treatment, as well as group therapy sessions that provide peer support and shared learning experiences. These therapeutic relationships become vital sources of guidance and understanding as you navigate the complexities of recovery.
Family Therapy Sessions:
Family Therapy Sessions: Understanding that addiction affects entire families, BCBS Tennessee covers family therapy sessions designed to rebuild trust, improve communication, and educate family members about how they can best support your recovery journey. These sessions acknowledge that healing happens not just for the individual but for the entire family system that has been impacted by addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-Assisted Treatment: For those struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction, BCBS Tennessee covers medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to recovery. This evidence-based treatment recognizes that some addictions benefit from medical intervention alongside therapeutic support.
Coverage for Specific Substances
Addiction treatment coverage today usually means you don’t have to worry whether the specific substance you or a loved one is dealing with is covered. BCBS Tennessee, like most insurance companies, formally recognizes that addiction—such as heroin addiction, Xanax dependency, alcoholism, etc.— is a medical condition deserving specialized treatment like any other. As a BCBS Tennessee member, your insurance will likely cover addiction treatment for most, if not all, substances typically abused like fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, Xanax, Klonopin, methamphetamine, alcohol, and many more.
The substance you struggle with shouldn’t determine your access to treatment. The struggle itself is what matters, and insurance companies understand that. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee typically avoids substance-specific coverage in order to avoid stigma and shame while increasing accessibility to treatment. Insurance plans tend to have more to do with treatment plans and how much you pay out of pocket rather than specific substances.
How Insurance Covers Mental Health in Addiction Treatment
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee typically covers dual diagnosis treatment as incorporating mental health into addiction treatment is critical. This is a more all-encompassing strategy of care because it address both mental health and addiction. Sometimes referred to as co-occuring disorder, dual diagnosis treatment approaches treating the substance use disorder alongside with mental health disorders. The mental health disorder and substance dependency often create a feedback loop, one spurring on the other.
To give just a few examples, opioids have been known to be used by people struggling with PTSD to help suppress painful memories and mitigate the stress, but the effects of opioids only exacerbate symptoms of PTSD. Also, Xanax is commonly used by people struggling with anxiety. People with bipolar disorder may resort to polysubstance abuse, using downers or uppers to counteract the emotional extreme they’re experiencing, but these drugs only create higher highs and lower lows. Likewise, someone struggling with depression may turn to alcohol to numb the pain.
It’s estimated that dual diagnosis affects at least a third of those dealing with substance use disorder. For how serious and common it is, it’s crucial that effective addiction treatment addresses these underlying causes, like PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. Most insurance companies take this as a given, so you can be rest assured that it’s factored in for your treatment options. Understanding coverage can be confusing, so we do the work of helping you understand your benefits and exploring your available treatment options with you. We’ll help you see how dual diagnosis treatment can fit into your treatment options when you call us to verify your benefits.
Types of BCBS Tennessee Health Plans and Coverage Levels
BCBS Tennessee offers several types of health plans, each with different coverage structures that can impact your out-of-pocket costs for addiction treatment.
Traditional Plans
BCBS Tennessee’s traditional plans typically offer comprehensive coverage with predictable copayments and coinsurance rates. These plans often have lower deductibles and provide immediate coverage for many services, making them an excellent choice for individuals who anticipate needing regular medical care or addiction treatment services.
High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs)
BCBS Tennessee offers high-deductible health plans that can help make addiction treatment more affordable in the long run. While these plans have higher upfront costs before coverage kicks in, they often come with lower monthly premiums and may be paired with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) that can help offset treatment costs with pre-tax dollars.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans
PPO plans from BCBS Tennessee offer maximum flexibility in choosing your healthcare providers, including addiction treatment specialists. These plans don’t require referrals from primary care physicians and allow you to see out-of-network providers, though at a higher cost. This flexibility can be particularly valuable when seeking specialized addiction treatment services.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Coverage
Understanding the difference between in-network and out-of-network providers is crucial for maximizing your BCBS Tennessee benefits and minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses.
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When you choose an in-network treatment facility, you’ll receive the maximum benefits your plan offers. BCBS Tennessee has negotiated contracted rates with in-network providers, which means you’ll pay significantly less for treatment services. Many in-network providers also handle the pre-authorization process for you, removing administrative burdens during your time of need.
To illustrate how in-network benefits work with BCBS Tennessee, consider this example: If the cost of rehab is $20,000, but because the facility is in-network, BCBS Tennessee has negotiated a rate of $14,000. Assuming your deductible has been met and your plan has 80% coinsurance, you would be responsible for 20% of the $14,000, or $2,800, rather than paying based on the full $20,000 rate.
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While BCBS Tennessee may cover some costs for out-of-network treatment, coverage is typically significantly reduced. You may be responsible for higher deductibles, increased coinsurance percentages, and the difference between what the provider charges and what BCBS Tennessee considers a reasonable and customary rate. Additionally, out-of-network providers may require you to pay upfront and seek reimbursement from your insurance company.
How Much Will Rehab Cost With BCBS Insurance Provider?
Deductibles
Your deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage begins. BCBS Tennessee plans typically have separate deductibles for individual and family coverage, and some plans have separate deductibles for different types of services. Once you meet your annual deductible, your insurance will begin covering covered services according to your plan’s terms.
Copayments and Coinsurance
After meeting your deductible, you may still be responsible for copayments (fixed amounts) or coinsurance (a percentage of the total cost) for certain services. BCBS Tennessee plans may require different copayments for different types of addiction treatment services, such as outpatient therapy sessions versus inpatient treatment days.
Out-of-Pocket Maximums
Every BCBS Tennessee plan has an out-of-pocket maximum, which is the most you’ll pay for covered services in a plan year. Once you reach this limit, BCBS Tennessee covers 100% of covered services for the remainder of the plan year. This protection ensures that even extensive treatment needs won’t result in unlimited financial burden.
How to Verify Your BCBS Tennessee Benefits
Before beginning treatment, it’s essential to verify your specific benefits and understand what your plan covers. Here’s how you can access this information:
Online Portal
You can access detailed information about your BCBS Tennessee coverage by logging into your member portal online. This resource provides comprehensive information about your specific plan benefits, including coverage for substance abuse treatment, deductible status, and provider networks.
Customer Service
Calling BCBS Tennessee’s customer service line can provide you with personalized information about your benefits. Have your member ID card ready when you call, and ask specifically about:
- Your deductible and whether it’s been met
- Copayment or coinsurance amounts for different types of treatment
- Which treatment facilities are in-network in your area
- Pre-authorization requirements for treatment
- Coverage limits for different levels of care
- Any specific requirements for addiction treatment coverage
Let Live Again Detox do the work
Many reputable addiction treatment centers in Tennessee have admissions specialists who can help verify your BCBS Tennessee benefits for you. These professionals understand the intricacies of insurance coverage and can help you navigate the system while you focus on preparing for treatment.
Continuing Care and Long-Term Support
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and BCBS Tennessee recognizes the importance of ongoing support through comprehensive continuing care coverage. These programs include:
- Continued individual and group therapy sessions to help maintain sobriety and address ongoing challenges
- Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of medications used in medication-assisted treatment programs
- Specialized relapse prevention programs designed to help you identify triggers and develop coping strategies
- Coverage for participation in structured support groups and recovery programs
- Access to peer support services and recovery coaching
- Intensive outpatient programs for step-down care after residential treatment
This continuity of care ensures that your recovery doesn’t end when you complete your initial treatment program. BCBS Tennessee understands that recovery is not a destination but a journey, and their benefits are designed to support you every step of the way.
Finding In-Network Treatment Providers
This includes Aetna, Carelon, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Oscar Healthcare, Cigna, and Humana. Our goal is to ensure that everyone who needs our help can receive it, regardless of their insurance coverage. Finding the right treatment provider within your BCBS Tennessee network is crucial for receiving maximum benefits while minimizing costs.
You can find in-network treatment providers through several methods:
- BCBS Tennessee’s online provider directory, which allows you to search for addiction treatment facilities in your area
- Calling customer service to speak with a representative who can help you locate nearby in-network providers
- Contacting treatment centers directly to verify they accept your specific BCBS Tennessee plan
- Working with your primary care physician or mental health professional for referrals to in-network providers
Many treatment centers list the insurance plans they accept on their websites, making it easier to understand your coverage before beginning treatment. Additionally, some facilities offer to handle the benefits verification process for you, removing this administrative burden during your time of need.
What to Do If You Don’t Have Insurance or Need Additional Coverage
If you’re uninsured or your current BCBS Tennessee coverage is insufficient, you may have options to obtain or improve your insurance coverage:
Special Enrollment Periods: Certain life events may qualify you for a special enrollment period, allowing you to enroll in or change your health insurance outside of the annual open enrollment period. These qualifying events include:
- Losing existing health coverage
- Getting married or divorced
- Having a baby or adopting a child
- Moving to a different area
- Experiencing changes in income that affect your eligibility
Employer-Sponsored Insurance: If your employer offers health insurance, you may be able to enroll during your company’s open enrollment period or after experiencing a qualifying life event.
Health Insurance Marketplace: You may be eligible to purchase insurance through Tennessee’s health insurance marketplace, potentially with subsidies to help make coverage more affordable.
State Resources: If you are 3 years of age or older, have a qualifying mental health diagnosis, and have no behavioral health insurance, you may qualify for the Behavioral Health Safety Net (BHSN) of TN program. This program provides essential services for those without insurance coverage.
Tips for Maximizing Your BCBS Tennessee Benefits
To make the most of your BCBS Tennessee coverage for addiction treatment:
Choose In-Network Providers: Always select in-network providers when possible to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Understand Your Plan: Take time to review your specific plan documents or speak with customer service to understand your benefits, limitations, and costs thoroughly.
Complete Pre-Authorization: Don’t skip the pre-authorization process if your plan requires it, as this could result in denied claims and delayed treatment.
Keep Detailed Records: Maintain comprehensive records of all treatment-related expenses, as you may be able to use them for tax deductions or flexible spending account reimbursements.
Appeal Denied Claims: If a claim is denied, remember that you have the right to appeal the decision. Working with your treatment provider can help you understand the reason for denial and provide additional documentation if needed.
Utilize Preventive Services: Take advantage of covered preventive services, including mental health screenings and wellness programs, which can help identify issues before they become more serious.
Taking the First Step
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your BCBS Tennessee insurance benefits are there to support you on this journey, removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent you from getting the care you need.
Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to face it alone. With BCBS Tennessee’s comprehensive coverage for addiction treatment, you can focus on healing and building a foundation for lasting sobriety. As one of the most reliable insurance providers with addiction coverage in Tennessee, BCBS TN is committed to supporting your recovery journey every step of the way.
The path to recovery begins with a single step, and your insurance coverage is designed to support you throughout the process. For those in Nashville, Live Again Detox offers comprehensive addiction treatment services and can help verify your Meritain coverage while providing personalized care throughout your recovery journey.
Remember, recovery is not just possible, it’s within your reach, and your BCBS Tennessee insurance is there to help make it happen.
What Our Patients Say
Hear directly from those who have walked the path to recovery at Live Again Detox. Our patients’ stories highlight the compassionate care, effective programs, and life-changing support they’ve experienced. Let their journeys inspire you as you take your first steps toward healing.
Love and gratitude to Matt for greeting me the first night and for being so kind during check in and every night that I saw him after that (thanks for the Earl Grey tea Matt 😊), Chelsea and Leigh Anne for their group work- they both have an incredible way of sharing things they have learned that really help you heal from within and you start wanting just to soak up all of their knowledge 💜, Nurse Kelly (night shift) and Nurse Chris (days) give the best hugs and uplifting advice especially since I am a nurse and they particularly focused on not allowing me to focus on shame and guilt, but on my accomplishments and what I have to look forward to moving forward- they treated me with complete respect (love you both 🤗) All of the nurses were caring and just amazing- Stacy, Sheila, Marlene, Patricia, Kelly on day shift. Additional shout outs to my therapist Chris….. he helped me work through so many things and gave me great coping skills to use at LAD and to take with me (can’t thank you enough), Nick for morning meditations and great insight and also all of his spunk, Josue for some very interesting, informative, and inspiring conversations on Sundays, Chris (night tech) for is humor and late night conversations when some of us couldn’t sleep, and Luke for his peaceful nature.
If you need help, please call LAD! It’s a small group of people, 12 at max capacity, super caring and attentive staff, great food and soooo many snacks/drinks available 24/7, lovely facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
The length of treatment BCBS Tennessee covers depends on medical necessity and your individual recovery plan. Coverage is typically provided for as long as treatment is deemed medically necessary by your healthcare provider and approved by the insurance company.
In-network providers have contracted rates with BCBS Tennessee and typically offer better coverage with significantly lower out-of-pocket costs. Out-of-network providers may still be covered, but you’ll likely pay much more for treatment and may need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement.
You can search BCBS Tennessee’s online provider directory, contact treatment centers directly to verify they accept your plan, or work with BCBS Tennessee’s customer service to find in-network providers in your area.
Some BCBS Tennessee plans require pre-authorization for certain types of addiction treatment, particularly inpatient and residential programs. This process involves your treatment provider submitting documentation to BCBS Tennessee demonstrating the medical necessity of the recommended level of care.
The pre-authorization process typically considers factors such as:
- The severity of your addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions
- Previous treatment attempts and their outcomes
- Your overall physical and mental health status
- Your support system and home environment
- The specific treatment modalities recommended by your healthcare provider
Don’t let the pre-authorization process discourage you from seeking help. Treatment facilities experienced in working with BCBS Tennessee can guide you through this process and advocate for the level of care you need. Many facilities have dedicated staff members who specialize in insurance authorization and can help ensure your treatment is approved quickly.
Many treatment centers offer payment plans or financial assistance programs. Additionally, you may be eligible for sliding-scale fees based on your income, or you might consider using a Health Savings Account or flexible spending account if available through your BCBS Tennessee plan. Some facilities also offer scholarships or grants for those facing financial hardship.
Did you know that your BCBS Tennessee plan may cover medical detox?
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Medically Reviewed By:
Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist
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Clinically Reviewed By:
Board Certified Clinical Social Worker
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BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. (n.d.). Behavioral health support. https://www.bcbst.com/health-wellness/behavioral-health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Fentanyl facts. https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/caring/fentanyl-facts.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Understanding the opioid overdose epidemic. https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/about/understanding-the-opioid-overdose-epidemic.html
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Principles of drug addiction treatment: A research-based guide (3rd ed.). National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Medications for opioid use disorder. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-opioid-use-disorder
Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. (n.d.). Find a licensed facility or service. State of Tennessee. https://www.tn.gov/behavioral-health/licensing/find-a-licensed-facility-or-service.html
State Licensed
Live Again Detox is licensed by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, ensuring compliance with state regulations for safe, ethical, and effective addiction treatment.
The Joint Commission
The Gold Seal of Approval® signifies that Live Again Detox meets or exceeds rigorous national standards for patient care, safety, and quality.
LegitScript Certified
Live Again Detox is certified by LegitScript, confirming compliance with laws and standards for ethical marketing and patient transparency in addiction treatment.
HIPAA Compliant
Ensures patient information at Live Again Detox is fully protected under federal privacy regulations.
BBB Accredited
Demonstrates Live Again Detox’s commitment to ethical business practices and community trust.
Chamber of Commerce Member
Live Again Detox is an active member of the local Chamber of Commerce, reflecting its commitment to community growth and support.
ASAM Member
Membership in the American Society of Addiction Medicine reflects Live Again Detox’s dedication to science-based treatment and advancing standards in addiction care.
Psychology Today Verified
A verified listing on Psychology Today confirms that Live Again Detox provides trustworthy and transparent treatment services.
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Medically Reviewed By:
Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist
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Clinically Reviewed By:
Board Certified Clinical Social Worker
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1. Insurance Coverage & Access to Care
Claim: Health insurance, including BCBS Tennessee, helps expand access to evidence-based addiction treatment services.
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. (n.d.). Behavioral health support. https://www.bcbst.com/get-care/personalized-care/managing-chronic-conditions/behavioral-health
Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. (n.d.). Find a licensed facility or service. State of Tennessee. https://www.tn.gov/behavioral-health/licensing/find-a-licensed-facility-or-service.html
2. The Opioid & Overdose Crisis
Claim: Tennessee remains significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic, with fentanyl and heroin driving overdose deaths.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Understanding the opioid overdose epidemic. https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/about/understanding-the-opioid-overdose-epidemic.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Fentanyl facts. https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/caring/fentanyl-facts.html
3. Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment
Claim: Effective treatment includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral therapies, and long-term recovery support.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Principles of drug addiction treatment: A research-based guide (3rd ed.). National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/podat-3rdEd-508.pdf
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Medications for opioid use disorder. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-opioid-use-disorder
State Licensed
Live Again Detox is licensed by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, ensuring compliance with state regulations for safe, ethical, and effective addiction treatment.
The Joint Commission
The Gold Seal of Approval® signifies that Live Again Detox meets or exceeds rigorous national standards for patient care, safety, and quality.
LegitScript Certified
Live Again Detox is certified by LegitScript, confirming compliance with laws and standards for ethical marketing and patient transparency in addiction treatment.
HIPAA Compliant
Ensures patient information at Live Again Detox is fully protected under federal privacy regulations.
BBB Accredited
Demonstrates Live Again Detox’s commitment to ethical business practices and community trust.
Chamber of Commerce Member
Live Again Detox is an active member of the local Chamber of Commerce, reflecting its commitment to community growth and support.
ASAM Member
Membership in the American Society of Addiction Medicine reflects Live Again Detox’s dedication to science-based treatment and advancing standards in addiction care.
Psychology Today Verified
A verified listing on Psychology Today confirms that Live Again Detox provides trustworthy and transparent treatment services.
Did you know that your BCBS Tennessee Insurance Plan may cover medical detox?
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What Our Patients Say
Hear directly from those who have walked the path to recovery at Live Again Detox. Our patients’ stories highlight the compassionate care, effective programs, and life-changing support they’ve experienced. Let their journeys inspire you as you take your first steps toward healing.
Love and gratitude to Matt for greeting me the first night and for being so kind during check in and every night that I saw him after that (thanks for the Earl Grey tea Matt 😊), Chelsea and Leigh Anne for their group work- they both have an incredible way of sharing things they have learned that really help you heal from within and you start wanting just to soak up all of their knowledge 💜, Nurse Kelly (night shift) and Nurse Chris (days) give the best hugs and uplifting advice especially since I am a nurse and they particularly focused on not allowing me to focus on shame and guilt, but on my accomplishments and what I have to look forward to moving forward- they treated me with complete respect (love you both 🤗) All of the nurses were caring and just amazing- Stacy, Sheila, Marlene, Patricia, Kelly on day shift. Additional shout outs to my therapist Chris….. he helped me work through so many things and gave me great coping skills to use at LAD and to take with me (can’t thank you enough), Nick for morning meditations and great insight and also all of his spunk, Josue for some very interesting, informative, and inspiring conversations on Sundays, Chris (night tech) for is humor and late night conversations when some of us couldn’t sleep, and Luke for his peaceful nature.
If you need help, please call LAD! It’s a small group of people, 12 at max capacity, super caring and attentive staff, great food and soooo many snacks/drinks available 24/7, lovely facility.
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