Carter Hope
506 East Hawthorne Street
Dalton, GA 30721
About Carter Hope
Since they started way back as an AA meeting house in 1998, Carter Hope has been a nonprofit. You’ll find ‘em in a serene setting out Dalton, Georgia. They've evolved since those early days. Currently, they offer residential assistance for adults aged 18 and older with substance use disorders.
One special note: They require you to submit a negative drug screen or complete detox before admission. You'll also get random drug tests throughout your stay to make sure you're still on track as you progress. You must also be vaccinated for COVID or be willing to get fully vaccinated within two weeks of starting the program.
Let's start with the rooms. They offer 10 beds for women and 30 beds for men. Their treatment philosophy draws from the matrix model and holistic practices. Individual and group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), 12 Step meetings, meditation, and accelerated resolution therapy.
One notable feature was they offer animal assisted therapy with horses. They offer standard and trauma focused equine therapy, relationship building, and life coaching. This approach promotes holistic healing and life skills as you connect with the horses.
Another great feature is the breadth of their additional services. They'll gladly also help you improve other essential life aspects. You’re required to work and support yourself while living in their program. If you’re unemployed, they offer job training. You can also access budgeting classes to learn how to manage your money properly. Likewise, if you're under court orders, they'll coordinate with parole and probation staff to make sure your obligations are met.
I also like their program length. They encourage you to stay for nine months to reap the full benefits of their program. It's pretty cool that you’ll have enough time to move through treatment at your own pace while benefiting from ongoing encouragement.
Another thing you might want to know is about payment. Since they aren’t a medical facility, they don’t accept private insurance. In fact, they require an upfront admission fee.