I was a patient at Sierra Tucson for one month in July 2021. It has taken me almost five years to write this because my experience there was so traumatic. I went there for help with severe chronic pain, depression, and trauma, and I left feeling much worse, not better. From the very beginning, I experienced a lack of professionalism and care. I was picked up from the airport by a staff member who immediately asked me if I smoked so he could smoke on the drive. The van smelled heavily of cigarette smoke the entire hour-long ride. That was my introduction to a place that claims to prioritize health and healing. My first night, after finally falling asleep around midnight, I was woken at 2 am when a staff member turned on all the lights and loudly announced I had a roommate. I woke up in a full trauma response. I was there to heal trauma, not be retraumatized. Within the first couple of days, I spoke with staff to try to arrange to leave. There were so many red flags within the first 24 hours, and it was pretty clear that this was not going to be a healing experience for me. I wanted to leave. They quickly arranged a meeting for me with one of the higher ups and he manipulated me into staying, taking advantage of my vulnerable state. If I had been in a better state of mind, I would have booked a flight home immediately. The environment was chaotic and disorganized. My toilet ran nonstop for over a week despite multiple reports. Staffing was inadequate, and there were many times I needed support and had to wait hours to speak to someone. The scheduling was a constant issue and incredibly stressful and exhausting. My schedule was almost always wrong, so every morning I had to go to the scheduling desk to get it corrected. I often had to wait because the staff were almost always late, and when they did arrive, they were unfriendly and unhelpful. I waited for appointments that didn't exist and missed ones that were never properly scheduled. I was told before coming that I would receive EMDR, which was one of the main reasons I chose this facility. After weeks of asking, I was eventually told I would not be getting it at all. I submitted many written complaints during my stay, and nothing was ever addressed. There was no accountability or follow-through. The financial aspect was incredibly misleading and exploitative. My family paid $45,000 for my stay. Only after arriving did I learn that many of the "integrative services" presented on their website were not included and required an additional $2,500 to access. By that point, I had already rearranged my life to be there for a month and had already committed financially, so I reluctantly paid the extra money. The additional services were not worth it. It was a bait-and-switch. There were also serious issues with professionalism and basic respect. My belongings were damaged, including my ukulele. A $45,000 check from my father was lost for over a week. I also overheard staff gossiping about me which was shocking, emotionally painful, and deeply inappropriate in a treatment setting. My experience with my individual therapist Minnie was very unprofessional and harmful. She was unkind and unsympathetic and shared personal information with my father without my consent, including information that was completely untrue, which caused serious harm in my family. There were many situations that were actively retraumatizing rather than therapeutic. During my stay, a patient died by suicide in a room just a couple doors down from mine. One minute I was sitting across from her at dinner, and the very next morning I found out that she had hung herself in her room the night before. That alone speaks to the level of safety and support in the environment, and it had a profound emotional impact on me while I was already in a vulnerable state. Even the programming did not match what was advertised. Even the programming did not match what was presented. For example, "equine therapy" consisted of a single brief session where we all stood around and briefly touched a horse. That was the extent of it. When I got home, I immediately wrote to Sierra Tucson and provided detailed documentation of everything that had happened and asked for my money back. I did not receive any resolution. Overall, I spent a significant amount of time trying to advocate for basic aspects of my care while dealing with chronic pain and emotional distress. I spent an enormous amount of time trying to fix issues that should never have been my responsibility. It was incredibly frustrating and exhausting. Instead of being able to focus on healing, I was dealing with constant stress, instability, and emotional harm, which made my condition worse. People come to places like this when they are at their most vulnerable. What I experienced was not just disappointing, it was deeply harmful. read more

best care ever!!! would highly recommend! Love you guys!!!! thanks for everythin. staff and office was so responsive and work with tricare and Triwest read more

As a human trafficking survivor, finding a treatment facility I could trust felt nearly impossible. Systems had failed me my entire life. I walked through Sierra Tucson's doors guarded, skeptical, and carrying wounds that most people will never understand. Thirty days later, I walked out transformed. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to create a protective bubble around me, a sense of safety I hadn't felt in longer than I can remember. They were not just clinically competent; they were human. They saw me. The setting itself is breathtaking. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, there's a stillness and beauty to this place that becomes part of the healing. And the programming? Intense... in the best possible way. Full days of structured, meaningful work meant that I genuinely felt like I received six months of treatment in 30 days. It's demanding because it works. A few moments stand out that I'll carry with me always. Jesse in equine therapy introduced me to something I never expected, the quiet miracle of regulating alongside a horse, feeling its heartbeat slow mine. It was unlike anything I had experienced in treatment before. Staying in the all-female lodge was not just a preference; it was essential to my healing. Sierra Tucson understood that without having to be convinced. And my service animal. We face barriers everywhere. Sierra Tucson was educated, prepared, and welcoming from the very first interaction. That alone told me everything I needed to know about how much they truly care. Our daily process groups gave me something sacred: a space to speak my truth without fear of retribution. To say the things I had never been able to say, and to heal by simply being heard. The care doesn't stop at discharge, either. The Connect 365 aftercare program, and Sean specifically, has kept that Sierra Tucson spirit alive in my daily life. That continuity matters more than words can express. Sierra Tucson is award-winning for a reason. In fact, it's time they receive another one. For survivors like me, this place isn't just a treatment center; it's proof that trust can be rebuilt, that healing is possible, and that we deserve care that meets us exactly where we are. read more

The courses themselves are very beneficial, the staff on the other hand does not care about you. They invaded my privacy and preformed unconsensual searches and were flat out disrespectful. The CEO doesn't do anything to better the company when he calls for meetings with the patients. Wouldn't recommend this place unless they seriously change some things up. read more

I would absolutely not recommend. They let my son leave without telling anyone. He immediately went and did things that he was in there to be treated for. He went there 3 different time for a total of 5-6 months. The care of treatment was horrible. We are looking into seeing what more we can do. They were neglicent They are a part of the Arcadia group which has many negative issues. read more

Please heal elsewhere. Dr. Seymour is the only reason anyone would go here. He's incredibly knowledgeable and kind and I wish I could say his valuable lecture was worth the pain of the rest of my experience. But you might see him once in a group during a grueling month of being taken off previous medications (after being assured you can stay on them during the phone interview) and put on heavy antipsychotics. This is not a place where they are equipped to deal with traumatized people. I was sent back to inpatient to rot twice for having panic attacks. YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO LEAVE AT WILL. Obviously, they want your money and will call you dysregulated or "not ready" if you ask to leave. any protest will get you sent to the hospital, so be locked in for a month or more of them moving that release date around to keep you on your toes. I had issues with alcohol before my stay in the spring of 2023, but the night terrors that started at Sierra Tucson have not gone away, three years later. I scream in my sleep several times a week. Last note: Dr. Jennifer Bao is likely a sociopath, albeit refined. I have never encountered such a cold flavor of evil, and my mom has NPD. I'm surprised she's still on the staff list. read more

This is not a place I would recommend going to for care. I went here for 20 days starting 12/20/25. The advertising is lying about the care they provide. It's not individualized. Everyone receives the same care and classes there's no specific program. The care they to provide will be dictated by what's billable to insurance. They lie about being able to accommodate food allergies. The facilities themselves are falling apart and aren't clean. They aren't opportunities to go outside or exercise. They put you in classes all day which may or may not have any relevance to why you're there. My experience is the classes were mostly irrelevant and unrelated and never addressed again. I brought up my food allergies (celiac) and it was never addressed. Most concerns I had were never addressed. I did have a great psychiatrist however everything else was detrimental to my care and well being. The sleeping situations aren't great. You'll have a roommate. Mine smoked snored and peed on the toilet seat. I was able to transfer, but it such a mine field. They don't look after the basics of care let alone mental health. They should be exemplary in helping people with sleep, diet, and exercise and they simply do the bare minimum or ignore exercise entirely. This place may once have been good, but I think the only good remnants are in the psychiatrists. Everything that may have once made this place worth going to is gone. If you or your loved one are in need and thinking of going to residential treatment look elsewhere. Especially if you're paying out of pocket it's simply not remotely worth what they charge or the lackluster services thru provide. Some staff do really seem to be trying, but the leadership and other staff don't seem to care at all. They just want to fill beds and provide the bare minimum care required by law. Which they barely do. I hope this review helps people avoid this place and find better care. read more

Still waiting for medical records 5 years Of waiting. Their pain program didnt last very long. Maybe they just got rid of everything that reminded them of failed ptogram read more

***FOR ANYONE THAT WAS DISCHARGED BEFORE THEIR 30 DAYS UNDER THE REPRESENTATION THAT "INSURANCE IS DROPPING THEM" PLEASE READ AND FILL OUT THE FORMS LINK AT THE END*** This place is committing systemic insurance and treatment fraud. Providers are following directives from higher ups, and corporate level executives who are financially incentivizing providers to maximize both turnover and profit margin by prematurely and unsafely discharging patients to make room for those on the waitlist that are willing to privately pay. ABOVE ALL AVOID DR. VELEZ. This man knowingly committed insurance fraud, negligence, and medical malpractice. He went against the advice of the remainder of my treatment team who all advocated for me to submit for an extension request through the insurance company as they all deemed I would benefit from continued treatment at this level, which I agreed. Dr. Velez lied 3 times to me, first stating that he submitted the insurance request and it came back denied; which was false because he told me that the day before the review WOULD HAVE been conducted. Second, he told me that it clearly said that in my "UR Notes" and tried to shift blame for the premature, unorganized, and practically nonexistent discharge plan. Third, it became apparent that he NEVER submitted the insurance extension request in the first place, fabricated evidence and misrepresented the entire situation, then when confronted about it, he refused to submit an extension request without reason. I asked both Residential Experience Coordinators numerous times, I asked patient advocates numerous times, I asked the COO and CEO himself numerous times; all to speak to a different provider and be evaluated if continued treatment would be beneficial. They all denied my request and Dr. Velez unilaterally, against the collective medical opinions of others, unsafely, prematurely, and negligently discharged me against my will. During my 30 days there I can count at least 10 people who were discharged early and prematurely under the representation by providers that their insurance company audited them and is going back on their original determination to approve a 30 day treatment plan. I told people to call their insurance company to verify that's actually true. Turns out Dr. Velez did this to another patient. Lied and said his insurance company is going back on their original 30 day approval of treatment and decided to abruptly cease coverage. He called the insurance company and they said they have no record of that. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfc-4_Cc32qMyc5yVxJUbIPkezET3bEV1tRdE-IB0fTnCIDuw/viewform?usp=header read more

Many of these reviews are emotional. This is not. This review is factual. Please mark as helpful if you find valuable. Overall, psychology staff is world class. Accounting practices are shady and designed to get every patient to pay the maximum dollar possible. Majority of staff genuinely care about doing good work and helping the world. Here was my experience: three key staff changed my life. Thank you David, mike, and Ian. I made lifelong friends and learned more about myself in a month than years. About shady accounting practices: the first form you sign prevents insurance from reimbursing you. ST will contact your insurance and submit all bills to them during your stay. It is advertised as a service to help you. In reality, they are tracking what insurance pays its patients to ensure ST gets every dollar insurance would pay to you. Overall, if you pay out of pocket, or expect to get reimbursed by insurance, do not sign their intake forums. I read every individual line on intake, and this clause stood out to me. It is not how insurance typically works. Upon asking Mary at intake: "will Sierra Tucson want me to pay them money from insurance?" She replied "no, we do not do that" Sure enough, I have a letter from collections asking me to reimburse ST for money insurance paid me via check. Lastly, the CPT codes are generic and broad and ST refuses to send me detailed daily CPT codes. If you work in the healthcare field and understand the importance of detailed records, this is a major red flag read more

My experience- I was there twice, once in 2024 and once in 2025, and the staff and residents changed my life. The doctors are some of the best in the country. Some of the therapists are amazing, others not so much. It is very expensive, and the financial side of the facility is unprofessional and rude. There was major miscommunication and they outright ignored my multiple calls and emails before sending my account to collections after insurance paid their part. I learned that in the second half of 2025, major corporate changes gutted the first responder program (called Red, White & Blue, or RWB), and they increased the patient to staff ratio to unsafe levels. So very sad. It's a gorgeous facility and the clinical staff is exceptional. So while my healthcare was fantastic at that time, I'd be wary and look at other options, especially veterans and first responders, as that program has been gutted. read more

I was verbally assaulted by another patient and witnessed her physically assault another patient. It took two days before she was removed from the campus. I came for trauma therapy. Management never spoke to us as a group to let us know we mattered. Don't go to this place for trauma!!! read more

I was a patient at Sierra Tucson in 2005. I can say that my stay, and my involvement with ST's past alumni program likely saved my life. I have spent the last 20 years heavily involved with the alumni program through attending programs (retreats, workshops, ST sponsored group therapy sessions in my community and online support groups). I also volunteered a great deal of my time assisting with events and leading both in-person and online support groups. I did this because ST fostered a recovery community that was strong and rewarding. I benefited greatly and gave them 5 star reviews until June of 2025. The current CEO, Tim Palus, prides himself on having breakfast with the patients every day and getting to know them, but from what I can see, that's the extent of his benefit to the community, and I have heard from several recent patients that the connection ends with their stay, as he doesn't return their emails. Tim eliminated the position of Director of Alumni Relations in June, fired a 25 year employee with no cause, and assigned all duties of that position to another full time employee who was Alumni Coordinator and head of the Connect 365 aftercare program. That person quit after 12 years of service. I assume because he was being asked to do two full-time jobs. Shortly after that person left, the Chief Clinical Officer was fired for disagreeing with the current agenda. I was also suspended from their alumni Facebook group for not being supportive of the agenda. The annual retreat (in its 38th year) to be held in October is now going to be put on by the CEO. This is a large, 4-day event held at a local resort with workshops, speakers, 3 meals/day, transportation to the ST campus, and not least of all, a large community of people in recovery who have attended these events for years and expect a powerful, cohesive event. The man who put this event on for the past 25 years (who was fired in June) was expertly versed in all it takes to put in an event of this scale. I cannot imagine a corporate CEO who just lost 3 pivotal employees, and the entire alumni department, is going to do this event justice. Gone are the in-person family week for patients. Gone are the in-person therapist-led community alumni support groups. Gone are the peer-led community support groups. Gone is a treatment facility who supports its patients after they set foot off campus. What I see now is a corporate agenda being pushed, and anyone who does not align is removed. I would not attend Sierra Tucson in its current state. Nor, would I recommend it to you. I've heard great things about the still privately owned Sabino Recovery, also in Tucson. If you are looking for help, I support you as you work towards a healthy, happy future once you find treatment. It is possible, and I was blessed to receive that from Sierra Tucson before it fell victim to the corporate agenda. read more

I went to Sierra Tucson for severe depression, PTSD, among other things. My experience was mostly awful and I only ended up staying 2 days before I left. The intake process is probably the worst part, and the only part I experienced. They withheld my ADHD medication which gave me panic attacks. They blamed me, the patient, for my bad experience and tried to guilt me into staying, probably so they could make more money. A lot of the staff really does seem to care, but the specific care team I was assigned was atrocious, except for my case worker. I would only recommend going to this place if you aren't on a ton of medications, especially controlled medications. They mess up the dosages and withhold some meds without really telling you why. It sent me into FORCED WITHDRAWALS on the 2nd day. The first day there I was told that because I was crying over missing my partner, that they were "going to take me to residential" but "since I was freaking out" (missing my partner) they essentially implied I'd have to stay in intake longer, punishing me for missing my partner on my first day. I'm sure the residential part is fine. But just because of how awful and traumatic the intake process is, I don't think it's worth it. read more

The irony is this is supposed to be best place. While it can't be the worst... it surely is not the best. The staff and administration is bonkers. The rules I understand. What I don't understand is the insanity of what should be a sane place. Watch out. under staffed, profit margins is solely the goal. EVERYTHING IS EXTRA.... and they do not bill insurance. even when you have it out of network. It is a nice campus though. read more

I am writing this review to inform others who are considering this facility for treatment. I wish I had listened to the negative reviews before coming here. This place is a complete scam. I went here with a promise of being cared for for PTSD and was further traumatized by this experience. The admissions counselors will try to sell you on what this place claims to be but the admissions counselors are not actually on site and don't know much about the current programming. For most of the staff, this is their first psych job out of school and it is very apparent. You will spent 95% of your time here in giant lecture halls filled with about 75 people. They repeat the same lectures every week. I have so much that I could say about my time here but I will try to sum it up in bulletpoints. * Before coming, I let them know that I could not have a male therapist. They gave me one anyways. He didn't show up to our first appointment. I went to his office to ask what happened and realized he looked like one of my abusers. I told Joan again that I couldn't handle that. Nobody listened. I ended up in full blown dissociative crisis in group therapy and none of the staff helped. Other PATIENTS had to help me get out of it. It took another week before I got a new therapist. * The new therapist I was given had her own crisis and ended up leaving. They gave us a new substitute therapist each time who spent the whole group therapy session trying to play catch up. * They did not have a room available for me for two days and made me sleep in a closet with a cot with a door that would lock from the outside so I got locked in. Thankfully, another patient heard me yelling and opened the door. * Someone committed SUICIDE while I was here. * The nurses "forgot" to give me my medication for 8 days and when I started getting suicidal again, they discharged me. I was worse when I left than when I came in. I believe this used to be a really high quality facility as I was told by some others that were here in the early 2000's but that is not the case anymore. Please feel free to message me if you would like to know more about how they treat their patients here. read more

The intake person lied to me over and over, telling me that the care there is Not faithbased. It's just another lie to get your ash inside their walls, where you give up some important rights. The welcome manual begins with the serenity prayer and every day, the rules state that you Will gather at a specific time and place to be counted, and you must participate in group prayer. The rules state that if you refuse to close your eyes and bow your head, you will not be counted as being here, and that there is a $250 charge to your credit card on file for each incident. Jesus's image can be found in every room. If you hear music at all on the property, it's christian music. I left ST and they tried sending me a bill, but I just warn others. I don't pay scammers. read more

This is a place where rich stressed out people go for a vacation. That's honestly my conclusion. I went to Sierra Tucson as, what felt to me, my last resort. My cptsd is ruining my life causing me mental and physical pain and I needed this place's help to get back on my feet even just a little bit. Welp! It's rated best for ptsd but I was, honestly, I was treated like crap. After being home for a bit to recoup from the trauma that occurred there I found that I wasn't the only one- Google reported that this institution has dealt with many a suicide due to nurse negligence. Which is exactly what happened to me! Amongst other things. I spoke w a representative months prior to admittance to ensure that this experience was going to be successful. I am told not to bring my medications only to arrive and they not have them. So I break out in a full body rash which takes over a day to be acknowledged and treated. The stress leads towards painful hemroids which also takes another day to get a cream which is unhelpful. I'm given a scooter that doesn't have neck or upper back support and hits every bump on campus and drives spikes through my body. Takes a week to get a new one which also doesn't work for me but by this time I'm picking my battles. I have cptsd and insomnia and I'm given a room next to an employee entrance and exit that slams all hours of the day and night. My original assigned case manager went on vacation or had an emergency because I was given someone unfamiliar w my case and didn't care about my concerns. In fact had me practically straight jacketed and ambulanced out of there because they failed to just give proper care. Failed to properly give me my medication! Failed! If you're rich and want some zen. Here's your place. If you have actual health troubles, this place is too scared to properly treat you. I don't recommend going here. read more

I went to Sierra Tucson in 2020 and it changed my life forever. I went in after what was basically a psychotic break from PTSD trauma I had never dealt with, and panic attacks. No treatment center is perfect, sure there were things that could've been improved but I've been to a couple treatment centers and this one was what really worked... because of the people there and the environment, the EMDR programs, the education I got on PTSD, and the way it healed my deep rooted family issues through their "family week" therapy program. Most "reputable" treatment centers are stark, institutional environments in bad locations that make you feel even more depressed. Sierra Tucson is the most healing environment ever. It is situated on 160 acres of land in beautiful Tucson, with wild horses and cows surrounding the property. The most gorgeous stars at night. Clean air. There is a swimming pool, yoga, acupuncture, holistic nutritionist if you want them... In addition to all of your daily therapy and groups. Not to mention, you are completely tech / phone free throughout your stay (unless you have approved work). When you are getting better you can get approved media time for say a half hour a day to use your phone. This allows you to escape from all of your issues back home and from being inundated by social media and all the negative stimulation. I REALLY REALLY cleared my head, tapped into my emotions and learned soooo much about myself. Anywhere that you're allowed your phone will not work!! It was the best escape. Secondly, the people here are amazing. I come from a very "normal" family and social circle, I hid my issues behind a "normal" mask, so I was naively terrified of who might be at a treatment center after seeing movies about rehab. It ended up being people just like me, and some different that were wonderful people that taught me A LOT. I made some of the best friends of my lifetime and one that became a boyfriend of 5 years. You connect on a different level than in the real world.. you don't have the distractions of substances and cellphones, so you really bond and help heal each other with sharing your experiences and relating.. and there is so much fun here too! You have a full schedule of therapy and programs but also have extra time for Hikes, pool time, the gym, talent shows, bonding in your housing environment with all your new friends. It truly filled my heart. For anyone scared to take the leap, I kept my issues under a rug and didn't seek help most of my life and it destroyed me- taking the initiative and just GOING to Sierra Tucson was the best decision of my life and I am grateful to God for it. I never knew it was possible to be in as good of a place as I am today and it all started there. read more

In 1998, I was in a dysfunctional family environment and co-dependent and abusive marriage that stripped me of my self-esteem and confidence. I was a past survivor of sexual abuse and was being stalked by a fellow coworker who was sexually inappropriate. I began drinking to conceal the pain and shame. I entered treatment and, back then, John was my counselor. I did not realize many peripheral addictions arose while dealing with certain issues and they were treated individually. Upon discharge, I had one AH in the business office tell me that he did not believe I would "make it." As soon as I returned home, I divorced my then husband, obtained two degrees (BA in English Literature and BSN in Nursing), am a member of two honor societies, and work as a Charge/Floor RN for the past 21 years. I am 70 years old and still working. I paid off my home and car all by myself and didn't need to lean on anyone to do so. I have traveled the whole US. I can honestly say the ST had provided me with the skills and confidence to live a full life and taught me how to say "no" to negativity. read more

I came in to Sierra Tucson after nearly taking my own life! After 30 days in the Red White and Blue program i left with a renewed sense of self and i was no longer in the darkness that was consuming me. I now feel grateful, happiness and joy. Thank you Sierra Tucson and all your wonderful staff! You saved my life and I am eternally grateful. Thomas A. read more

If you're looking for safety look elsewhere......its no longer safe, and is woefully understaffed. This was my second visit to ST (the first being in 2020) and since they were acquired by Acacia Health, its a whole different institution. I was there in July this year and it felt like a college campus. People vaping in classrooms and all over campus with little regard for those around them. They now allow residents their cell phones and often people are walking around facetiming or making videos, which violates patient privacy. We even had a comedy night and there were no less then 5 people recording with not a tech in sight. As for the smokers, well they now have free reign. You used to have to be in the "butt hutt" to smoke, but now, if it rains, come on over to the patio at Morning Star! Nevermind that the people who don't smoke don't want to smell it. There are no consequences here! And speaking of butt huts, residents are supposed to remain in their own lodges hut. Well, not anymore! Smoke wherever you would like, but just avoid the Red White and Blue butt hut, because that's by invite only. What's that you say? Invite only? Yes, apparently the veterans make their own rules and can allow (or not allow) people to visit. When this was brought up to staff numerous times, nothing happens. Same with phones, vaping, smoking, you name it. It's a free for all now. Residents are also supposed to wear their name tags at all times to be identified by your name and the color allows folks to know what lodge you're in. Not many people wore them, so it was hard to know who was staff and who was a resident. Residents are also supposed to only be in their own lodges for safety. NOT ANYMORE! Go where you like, there are no repercussions. There is also supposed to be a dress code at ST which is on the website. Since this was college vacation, everyone was running around in the least amount of clothing, with asses and boobs on display for all. People also wore clothing with alcohol logos and again, it didn't matter, even when brought up to staff. Swimsuits were worn to classes, it was wild. ST does not have gender neutral bathrooms, and does not print peoples schedules with their appropriate name (dead naming people). Staff continually misgenders folks. The therapist continually used terms such as "men and women" even though there were both trans and non binary individuals there. If you're going to ST for an eating disorder, or are in a bigger body, you should also know that ST is not size inclusive and is not ED friendly. You have to wear a Fitbit that tracks you, however, there is no way to remove the amount of steps you can walk. This can be dangerous for some people. When I brought this up and my concerns about having steps on it, they just didn't have me wear one. The towels may not fit around your body (which can be traumatizing) and many of the chairs have arms which is not always inclusive of all sizes. For what you pay to get in here, you should be guaranteed safety and privacy, neither of which you can get any longer from Sierra Tucson. read more

I wanted to take some time now to write about my experience at Sierra Tuscon and how, with their help, I was able to change my life for the good. By way of background, I am a chief law enforcement executive in the State of New Jersey. I went to Sierra Tuscon in July of 2022 when I was truly at a low point in my life. For as long as I can remember, I was continually making bad decisions in my personal life that was ultimately leading me to sadness and depression. But I was a cop who never felt I would look for assistance from anyone. I would always look to take care of my own problems and was dead set against the concept of treatment or therapy. But in July of 2020, these bad decisions had taken their toll on me and my family and it was time to give in and get professional assistance. I contacted a healthcare professional I knew and they immediately told me that they would help me to get into Sierra Tuscon, as they were the best at what they do. In addition, I was also told that they had a special program know as the Red White and Blue (RWB) program that was geared toward people like me. The program solely brings together military and first responders who are in need of assistance and who often share similar traumatic events that related to their professions. This gave me some reassurance that I was on the right track. Shortly after that, i was on a plane and eventually found myself in the middle of the beautiful Arizona desert at Sierra Tuscon. I was anxious and scared and wasn't sure I did the right thing. That is until I met William "Doc" Reynolds, the administrator of the RWB program, a former military man and a psychiatrist who I would ultimately become friends with and who helped to change my life for the better. He told me to trust in the process, participate in all my sessions and to take full advantage of the opportunity I was given. For the next month, I did exactly that. I got to interact daily with his caring, dedicated and professional staff who would ultimately identify some of the root causes of trauma that I had been carrying around my whole life and techniques and methods that would help me to deal with it. All of my days there were highly structured and very intense which allowed me to focus on your treatment. I can tell you those days were not easy. The RWB program was great for someone like me, a first responder who did not feel comfortable opening up about things with just anyone. The process group I was with was comprised of former military, cops and fireman. We became so close that we all still talk weekly after nearly two years. The bond we now share is unbreakable. While I was there I also got to meet and get to know many ordinary people who were also struggling with maladaptive behaviors. I got to hear about their trauma and some of their stories that led them to alcohol and drug addiction. Just prior to leaving Sierra Tuscon, I gave Dr. Reynolds my uniform badge and told him that he could use it anyway he wanted to hopefully inspire other first responders like me who were reluctant to seek treatment but was ultimately glad they did. What I can tell you is that everyone struggles with something and that it is important that you do something about it before it becomes a real problem. If and when that time comes I would highly recommend you consider Sierra Tuscon as the place to begin your treatment. I can only hope they do as much for you as they did for me read more

I attended Sierra Tucson in July of 2012 - I showed up as an alcoholic - depressed, defeated, miserable and full of self-hate, unable to look myself in the mirror. What transpired over the next 30 days was nothing short of a miracle - they dug into my past that allowed me to understand where so many of insecurities emanated from (without blaming them). They helped me work through my issues with compassion and grace and provided me with a path forward that looked nothing like the path that got me there. As far as I'm concerned, Sierra Tucson saved my life and I believe that with every fiber of my being. I go back annually for a "reunion" and it is always a first class affair - it reminds me of how far I've come and the symposiums are incredible. I would highly recommend Sierra Tucson and I have almost 12 years of sobriety to attest to that! read more

I found my way to Sierra Tucson after a severe suicide attempt. There were no available facilities near me and the thought of being in the sunshine during a cold winter was appealing. I flew from NY to AZ for their care. This is NOT the family run business that it formerly was. It is a large conglomerate owned business and is run as such. They will ALWAYS get payment first and will not do anything until they see the money. It was previously an all inclusive program, which had the added services of body work, chiropractic and additional therapies. This is NOT included in your price. You must pay extra for everything. The admission process is marginal. They have uninterested people who are simply are there to go through a checklist to ensure your insurance might pay. They didn't explain much and they certainly didn't prepare me for care there. There's a whole email they send out that tells you to bring a backpack full of what you'll need for the first 24 hours of your time. They don't follow that in practice. You're not allowed much of anything in the first few days. Upon arrival, regardless of time, you will go through an assessment including a skin integrity assessment. This means you're stripped naked and given a paper sheet so they can inspect every inch of you. Copper Sky is the newest building. It's fondly called "c block" because it's similar to prison. They have the suicide prevention room facilities and everything is padded. You will get no treatment for as long as you're there. They run classes but they are ineffective as the people there are mostly detoxing. They run a program out of there for people that are unable to go to the residential program because they are too high risk or need more medical support than they can provide. This is called the chrysalis program. The Red, White and Blue Program is absolutely the best program Sierra Tucson has to offer, in my opinion. It is for veterans, military and first responders. It is a tight knit group that has their own processing group, yoga group, adventure group, etc. Generally, it has one psych PA, named Bill Reynolds, who was in the Navy and then two primary therapists, Kris Davis and Vic Gilbert. If you are in one of the above mentioned groups and need assistance with mental health, substance abuse, etc, I would recommend this facility. NOW- here's the crap they don't want you to know... They are ridiculously understaffed. The residential advisors are the ones that keep the place running, keeping up with the residents needs, etc. They are responsible to physically lay eyes on the residents of each lodge every hour... even at night. If you are looking for a good night sleep, you don't want to go to a residential facility because they must check on you frequently through the night. Sierra Tucson is famous for losing personal property. While I was there they lost my phone for over 2 weeks. I know of several others who had their phones, computers, etc lost. Potentially the highlight of them misplacing things was when they lost an entire suitcase for one resident, and NEVER found it. When I left, they still had not found it. Let's talk about COVID... they change the rules to fit them. They will place one person in quarantine fir an exposure, but another will walk freely. If you are in quarantine, you get your phone back, but you are confined to your room with no entertainment at all. If you smoke, you might get out once in a while, completely covered from head to toe in protective gear. Yes, outside in protective gowns, booties, and hair coverings. They have no TV's for you to keep yourself entertained, etc. I heard they have an iPad you can use, but I don't know this to be true. You are subject to being moved from your room at ANY time. For example, one night they were short nurses and decided to shut down one entire lodge for a single night. This involved the residents packing all of their stuff and being moved back to the secure facility (Copper Sky). read more

What a terribly run facility I would give it minus 10 ! Left 2 days ago . Self admitted for anxiety. Put in addiction / trauma program. Therapist late to groups or no shows . Appointments with Dr.'s late or cancelled. Needs & wants never addressed , process group spent with everyone airing their grievances about the place . Lodges old dirty not cleaned properly. Grounds are depressing , outdoor areas furniture falling apart. Currently Covid outbreak . I could go on and on . I wish I would have trusted all the other terrible reviews . Stay away from this place read more

sierra Tucson is grossly understaffed. considering it costs $45K to enter the facility (please make sure your insurance actually get billed and if you are self pay NEGOTIATE. they will give everyone different pricing. I was sexually assaulted by a resident, reported it, asked for resolution (to have a mediator in a meeting with the assailant) CEO (Tim) wanted to meet with me, however after multiple attempts, he simply ignored the issue and did not follow through with our meeting. I met with a number of people who told me "we'll make sure and follow up regarding this issue", however that didn't happen. I had to sit next to the person who assaulted me every day. From his roommate I gathered that this man was told to "simply not talk to me" Majority of issues get swept under the rug. When I first got there there were 2 ODs, a number of sexual assaults (with predators being allowed to stay on campus with general population) in the last 14 months they had 3 suicides In addition the facility is falsely advertised. It's is falling apart. During a hail storm they put buckets in residents rooms to collect the water, there is extreme dry rot all over the place, they misrepresent what they have to offer (pool gym are only open if they have enough staff) BHAs are overworked and underpaid Groups are overcrowded and led by instructors with minimal training Medical response is slow and dangerous (my friend had sugars of 500 and was told they couldn't do anything till the morning because there was no MD on staff at night. I badly hurt my knee while using a rock climbing wall and the staff told me "it would take too long for the dr to respond so I was better off ordering my own supplies to stabilize my knee" Pictures online make this place look like a luxury retreat it's anything but. If you are thinking about sending your loved one to this facility I would caution you to do additional research on Acadia health care. Proceed with caution, especially because they will push additional tests on you that do not qualify as diagnostic or useful by the medical community (themselves included, genetic testing is a waste of money) They will do 1 EMDR session, even though it is extremely unethical (EMDR should be performed at least 10 times in a short span of time to benefit and also ensure the patient doesnt have adverse effect (they open a can of worms and do not give tools to process, which can lead to worsening SI and trauma) therapies are subpar at best. check out recovery ways and other facilities before deciding read more

I don't like to write online reviews, but my wife's experience at Sierra Tucson was abysmal. She was admitted this summer to get treatment for trauma. Among other things, she encountered the following problems: 1. Despite the fact that she was there for trauma treatment, she never saw a trauma specialist as she had been promised. 2. When someone is admitted, they are supposed to spend 24-48 hours in a welcome building before being moved into regular campus housing. Without explanation, my wife was kept there for four days. 3. Beware anything the admissions people tell you before you arrive. They assured us of several things before she arrived, including that they have plenty of gluten-free food offerings (my wife has celiac disease); her food was cross-contaminated within the first few days. She was also promised that staff would help her schedule an MRI off campus; once she arrived, she was told they couldn't do that. 4. When she came down with severe bronchitis and needed to go to the emergency room, the medical staff told her she didn't need to go. It was only after her roommate's advocacy that the nurses called an ambulance. 5. She didn't have a case manager for almost all of her time there and only knew who one person on her treatment team was. 6. On her admitting, a psychiatrist miswrote one of her prescriptions; that was never corrected. 7. We paid extra for her to receive an integrative trauma package. She was not given all of the treatments, and despite their promise of a partial refund, we have not received one. 8. Staff repeatedly lost her belongings, sometimes for a short time (her mp3 player, her computer), sometimes permanently (her phone charger). 9. Other people online have commented about their misinformation about insurance: they tell patients that they have approval for 30 days (or more), when in fact they have initial approved for five days and have to keep resubmitting claims to insurance. While that is, in part, a problem with our awful health insurance in this country, it led to medical staff repeatedly telling her different dates for her discharge. Also, she wasn't given a discharge date on her admission despite a guarantee that she would be given one so we could schedule travel and lodgings. 10. Buildings are infested with gnats, and the facility does nothing about it. I'm sure that someone from Sierra Tucson will comment below that they're sorry to see this, that they appreciate the feedback and would like to make it right in some way. Unfortunately, the fact is that she and I advocated for almost all of this--as did other patients--the entire time she was there. Besides, the list above is not complete; it's exhausting to have to detail all of Sierra Tucson's failures. read more

We could not be more disappointed in our daughter's treatment at Sierra Tucson in the spring of 2023. A little history, my wife (a licensed therapist) was a client at Sierra Tucson in the early 2000's and gave it glowing reviews as one of the best in the country which was a widely held view (and still erroneously is.) Our daughter went through the program earlier this year and after hearing about her experience there, (as well as other people in our community who have gone there in the past few years) it is painfully obvious since they were taken over by Acadia Healthcare that the level of care has dropped dramatically. To be fair, there are staffing shortages all over the country and getting good clinicians has been a challenge in much of healthcare post-pandemic. If Sierra Tucson were a mid-price facility, we'd give them some slack. But mid-priced, they are definitely not. Our daughter's one-month stay was billed at $100,000. For that price point, they should have some of the best services, clinicians and support available. That's what the celebrities you hear about expect when they go there. But, like us, I believe people are enamored with their history of excellence and not seeing Sierra Tucson for who they are today: a mid-level facility that charges premium prices by exploiting its sterling history. Our daughter was drawn to Sierra Tucson in large part to their use of EMDR treatment. Every day for 30 days, she would ask when the EMDR treatments would commence. And every day one of the overworked and scattered staff would say they're not sure. A couple of days before she was going to be discharged, she asked again, and they said they were so busy and too many people were there for the staff to handle, they weren't sure if she was going to get in. By the last day, they dropped it completely and she left never having done one EMDR session. In four weeks she saw her counselor precisely four times. Once a week. She requested more sessions but was told her counselor was too busy with so many other patients. She said her days were filled with lectures and handouts in crowded rooms with precious little therapy to enable her healing. Even on the luxury level, the facility was a mere shadow of what it used to be. We paid for a next-level package of massages and acupuncture but she was only able to access the services a few times since the waiting list was so voluminous. In closing, if you are considering Sierra Tucson for yourself or a loved one, we'd say do some more research on who they really are now versus what their prior sterling reputation used to be. They are most definitely not that anymore and you could likely do much better at another premium facility. A person only gets up to bat so many times in their healing journey and to have a prime opportunity like this wasted, we feel we need to warn future clients. read more

The staff there really care about your well-being and will customize your experience based on your specific needs. For military and law enforcement, both active and retired there is a red, white, and blue program which provides a greater sense of comraderie amongst those with similar backgrounds. It is a wonderful program and the VA will cover the cost of treatment in many cases. Dr. Bill Reynolds has a true commitment to this program and conducts several specialized meetings with the members of this group. I've been to 3 higher end treatment centers and this was by far the best experience. Jason S. read more

very disappointing over drugged, over charged and stolen items to name a few. Made it hard for some great staff members to help read more

Like many other rehabs, this place either gets highly-positive or highly-negative reviews on Yelp. It is what it is. I recently spent a month there and I had a highly positive experience. I found the staff to be very caring. The food is good. The grounds and mountain views are stunningly gorgeous. The desert sun is good for one's spirit and happiness. Most residents I knew paid approximately $5,000 out of pocket for a month of treatment before insurance kicked in. When you look at this on a per-day basis ($166) and factor in food and housing, I think that it is a very good deal. The clientele was overwhelmingly white. I hope that Sierra Tucson makes a concerted effort to bring in patients from more diverse backgrounds. Most importantly of all for me, I found the other patients to be highly encouraging, supportive, loving and caring. Their care for me made me what to work on my own healing journey. 30 days at Sierra Tucson won't heal you, but it has a very strong likelihood of stabilizing you and putting you in a position where you are highly motivated to continue working on your mental health once you leave. read more

I'll first start off by saying Sierra Tucson is a life changing experience. Sierra Tucson will change your life for the better, ultimately setting you up for a successful, more meaningful, more appreciative mindset when you return to "normal life". You will benefit on numerous dimensions. The time out from life, the calm setting , warm, clean weather, the gorgeous surrounds, the intense sense of community, the life long friendships made, and the ability to just get plenty of uninterrupted quality rest , that I personally very much needed. The education, one on one therapy sessions, group sessions, EMDR, medical providers, psychiatrists / therapists are pin point accurate in assisting you for your personal needs. They literally are some of the best in the world at what they do. You will meet people from all walks of life , experiences, young , old, different political stances, and genders .. All of this didn't matter , everyone was there to self improve but the sense of support, respect, and positivity everyone showed towards each other was like nothing I've ever experienced. Everything from drug addiction, alcoholism, pain management, psychiatric disorders and every other "ism" was represented there. I was there for PTSD/Anxiety/Anger Managment. A recent retired LE, I was part of the RWB Program (Red White n Blue) which composed of law enforcement and Military. We instantly had a brotherhood as if we knew each other our entire lives. Retired Naval Commander William Reynolds created and runs the program for RWB. He is a man of upstanding character and gained the group's immediate respect. For anyone in LE or Military , active or retired, PLEASE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS OPPORTUNITY AND EXPERIENCE. Don't put it off or think you don't have the time or means to attend. The VA or insurance will easily pick up the cost. If you think an environment like this MIGHT help you, PLEASE GO! The hard and fast points of Sierra Tucson: * It's very much like a college campus atmosphere. Everybody has a schedule , that's both regimented but catered to your liking / needs. Class times, dorm/lodge vibe, everyone walking around "campus" with their backpacks attending meetings/class * The food is outstanding, and plentiful. I assure you, you won't go hungry. * you can shift your classes and schedule to your liking . If you want more time for the gym or pool time, yoga , water exercise, just request it. * they take your phone from you but you will have privileges within a few days, but I might add , it was really nice to take a break from social medial and constantly being attainable. Lodges have land line phones and a desktop computer that you can use as much as you need 24/7. * The gym is really good considering what I was expecting. * Take advantage of having no real responsibility other than going to class, sessions and doing your laundry . Read , go for walks and hikes , talk to your neighbors. * you will be educated and set up for success but continued care will absolutely be required when you leave. You don't depart Sierra Tucson and you're "fixed" * TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE WITH WHATS PROVIDED TO YOU . RESOURCES , CLASSES , THERAPISTS , LEARN LEARN LEARN . YOU WILL GET SOMETHING OUT OF EVERY CLASS * Other reviews might make you apprehensive, don't listen to them. Some people need extensive, serious help, So they are placed in a more Intense, Controlled environment, as needed. * when you first arrive you will be checked into Copper Sky aka "C-Block" The place sucks , but trust me the rest of the campus is nothing like it . Some check ins needed to stay a day or so depending on room availability, luckily for myself I was only there for 2 hours and immediately placed in the RWB Lodge. * Really pay attention to the rules Of what you can and can not bring. They really do take and secure Property there that might pose as a safety issue . Certain items are given back to you as needed as long as they are immediately returned to the desk. PLEASE ATTEND IF YOU THINK S.T. MIGHT HELP. DO IT FOR YOU! Best of luck n be safe!!! read more

I went to Sierra tusan in 2020 and in 2022. I went for trauma. The first time I went, my experience was amazing. I stayed in the lockdown unit for the 27 days I was there (both times). I did somatic experiencing with Dr Seymor. He was a huge help to me. Due to memory issues, I was facing trauma. I felt staying on the lockdown was a good choice. They had horse therapy and took us on hikes. The second time I went there, I did have a similar positive experience, but I did have some issues with the lack of staffing. Groups sometimes got forgotten, but most of the times they found someone to sub, but it would take a bit.The art therapist there was a huge help for me. He really helped me understand what I was struggling with internally through art and figures and how I would place things. There is a pool and hottub, which was a nice break. Since I was in the lockdown unit, it was nice to relax outside with the others in the group. I was fortunate my insurance did cover this place at the time due to how expensive it can be out of pocket. I have been to a different mental health rehab when I was a teen in Chicago called Timberline knolls. Prior to going in 2020 I reached out to TK and they felt they did not have the staff to help me but gave my mom a number of someone to best help me find a place that will meet my needs and Sierra Tusan was the most highly recommend. Based solely on my experience, i felt like I was helped. I do have some more tools in my tool box. The only big issue i had was going back the second time I was told I can do EMDR even if I stayed in lock down which was not the case. I did, however, still benefit from my stay. read more

I attended Sierra Tucson in September of 2022. I was admitted for a 30 day treatment for trauma associated with PTSD. Because I was prior military (Navy) and a first responder (LEO) I was placed in the Red White and Blue group. The RWB group allowed other military and first responders to connect and build comradery while going through the treatment process. I was grateful to be in that group. In fact, that significantly helped me through my treatment process. While at ST, I was introduced to various forms of treatment. EMDR, Moral Injury group sessions, Process group, Equine therapy, RWB Team building exercises, and more. I found something in each activity to help in various ways. I thought the food was good and there was a lot of it. The landscape is beautiful with a track on location to take evening walks while watching the sunset. I spent a lot of time in the pool playing water volleyball with my RWB group and plenty of time in the gym. I also went on a few trail runs/walks that were off the ST property with a guide. I walked away from ST with tools that have continued to help me on my PTSD recovery journey. I still have a lot of work to do, but what I learned while there from staff and the doctors will continue to help me for the rest of my life. I will always be grateful for the opportunity and experience of going to Sierra Tucson. read more

11/2/2020 So because of the neglectful way that my son was treated and diagnosed, he is still not doing well. His health care providers in Las Vegas have failed to dig deeper and really find out what is wrong so now he is on the wrong medication once again. So I do stand by my original post because if we had not take our son to them, then he would not have the incorrect diagnosis. It takes so long to get a correct diagnosis, so facilities that do a neglectful job, need to be held accountable. Please do not think that just because the sales person calls you back, that this is the type of service that you will always receive. read more

Sierra Tucson literally saved my life.... they took excellent care of me and all of my peers, the staff really truly cared.... the accommodations were very nice and they fed us very well. I was there for trauma & situational depression recovery so that is the program that I can speak for. I made lifelong friends in my process group and have never felt stronger. You will definitely come across folks going through way difficult mental health and/or addiction type issues, but the staff is very compassionate and dealt with those situations quickly and appropriately. I just stayed clear of those folks and focused on my own healing. There was yoga and many other exercise programs, a nice pool, horse therapy, maid service, massages/acupuncture and other spa services, and art classes. It was actually very peaceful there and the safest I had felt in a while. It's quite pricey, Sierra Tucson is a private therapy facility and you pay for what you get. It's some of the best money I've ever spent though, not only did I deal with the situation that caused me the serious trauma, but I left there even stronger than I had been in over a decade. I will never regret my time and money spent at ST. (I was there 1 month residential followed by 2 months of outpatient 4-days a week. I still get weekly check-in emails for a year as a follow-up). read more

SIERRA TUCSON IS NOT FOLLOWING COVID SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS!! In fact they lied numerous times to my husband, who just returned from a month long stay. He was told clearly by at least 3 different people that he could receive onsite Covid testing before returning home to his family. When he pursued that, he was given the run around, only to be told by upper management that they did not offer testing. They lied to get his money, and then offered much less than what was promised. This place is charging 50-60k for a stay, and supposedly helping people learn integrity and health? What a joke. read more

I had gone into treatment completely hopeless, having tried SO many options in terms of mental health care over a 14 year intense mental illnesses treatment span. I am amazed at how life-changing 60 days here were. They tailor your daily schedule based on what specific subjects require the most attention. I genuinely very highly recommend this place for anyone considering residential treatment. It felt like a miracle and I met people who remain part of my support system, months later read more

Transforming for our 35-year-old son! He has never had the level of intelligence surround him. The staff respected him and his intellect and proceeded to get to the bottom of things as a team with him. Very impressed and we are glad we found a way to send him to Sierra Tucson. From the moment he got there he felt cared for and important. He hasn't been taken seriously in the past for the way he saw things. These clinical people acually listen more than they talk. A special thanks to Sean Battle for breaking through with the family and coming up with a good solid plan for after care. Can't thank you enough. read more