What to Expect?
We understand that there are many questions prospective residents and loved ones have regarding what to expect at Spirit Lake. Below you will find some frequently asked questions with their respective answers. Excellence of care begins with the first phone call or email, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for detailed information regarding any aspect of treatment.
What are some signs that I might need help?
- Loss of control over drinking or using other drugs
- Increased tolerance for alcohol and/or drugs
- Preoccupation with alcohol and/or drugs
- Have family members or friends commented on the negative impact your use of drugs and/or alcohol?
- Have you had negative consequences (legal, occupational, interpersonal) because of your use?
- Have you tried to abstain from alcohol and/or drugs and been unsuccessful?
I’m ready for help, what do I do next?
Please contact us at 877-242-1242 and our caring staff will guide you through the assessment and admission process.
Can I still talk to someone even if I am not sure I’m in need of treatment?
Yes, our trained staff is available to consult about the level of care that may be needed and your treatment options.
What kind of treatment is available at Spirit Lake?
We offer a complete continuum of care including an Outpatient program, Intensive Outpatient program, Residential treatment, as well as comprehensive Aftercare. Following a thorough assessment by a multidisciplinary team, a treatment plan is developed to fit each person’s unique needs. Click here to read more about treatment options.
Why is residential care male only?
Abuse and/or dependence upon alcohol or other drugs reaches people of all cultures, backgrounds and genders. Research suggests that men and women experience substance abuse differently. Men and women have different biological responses and co-morbid factors, as well as different reasons for dependence and abuse of drugs and alcohol. We feel that residents can feel more comfortable, open, and less distracted living in a male only home. However, our outpatient programs are all co-ed.
What do I need to bring or not bring to residential treatment?
Click here for a list.
Do I need to go through the detoxification process before contacting Spirit Lake?
Detoxification (detox) is the safe withdrawal from any substance a person has become dependent on. It can be a starting point for a long-term treatment. It is not the solution to the problem, but the start to a successful recovery if followed up with a treatment program. Not everyone suffering from substance dependence will need to go through detox. Some can come directly to our treatment facility and begin the recovery process. If you are identified as someone who does need detoxification, we have partnerships with local medical facilities which can safely guide you or your loved one through detoxification. After successful detoxification you can be transitioned into treatment at Spirit Lake Recovery.
What does Faith based, Christ centered treatment mean?
The owners, directors, and staff at Spirit Lake Recovery are believers in God and hold to Christ as their Savior. We honor Christ and his teachings and believe that it is essential for people in recovery to find God. To that end, our program facilitates and encourages this search in recovering persons. While residents will be given the opportunity to participate in spiritual activities, no one will be coerced into espousing a specific belief system. No one will be discriminated against for the beliefs they hold.
What is treatment like at Spirit Lake and how is it done?
Spirit Lake Recovery utilizes a multi-faceted approach that encompasses individual and group therapy, art and music therapy, family therapy, equine assisted psychotherapy and other forms of experiential therapy.
Each patient has a specialized treatment plan that is tailored to meet his specific needs. It is the ultimate goal of Spirit Lake Recovery to assist the individual with becoming fully engaged with his environment on a mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical level.
Click here for more details about specific treatment.
How long will treatment last at Spirit Lake Recovery?
At Spirit Lake, residents are treated as individuals and we tailor their treatment plan according to their specific needs. Please contact us regarding more information about length of stay.
Can my family visit me while I am in residential treatment?
Family members are encouraged to participate in the recovery of their loved one. This involvement will be coordinated by the client’s primary counselor.
What happens when it is time to leave residential care?
Treatment will not end when you leave Spirit Lake. You will not be expected to cope on your own. Our staff will work closely with you and your family to develop an aftercare plan that may involve an outpatient program, an intensive outpatient program, counseling, group therapy, and family support. Our continuum of care provides strong support and many levels of treatment and we are committed to our clients’ success at every level as they continue their journey to a recovered life.
What are my payment options?
We understand the financial concerns of treatment and we strive to offer premium services at a reasonable cost. Most insurance is accepted including TennCare and we offer a variety of payment plans. Our caring staff is here to help with any financial questions you may have.
What is the clinical staff to resident ratio?
At Spirit Lake we understand the importance of significant one-on-one therapy with a primary counselor. That’s why we maintain a maximum of 16 residents and the clinical staff to resident ratio is 1:4 at maximum occupancy.
Are Spirit Lake staff members licensed?
All staff members are appropriately licensed and Spirit Lake Recovery Center has been licensed by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health.

