Austen Riggs Center

My 17 month experience at Austen Riggs saved my life. Each staff member, every single staff member, cares about the patient. It is disheartening to read reviews from former patients for whom treatment here was not helpful and I'm truly sorry the experience isn't the same as mine. Treatment at Riggs isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Each therapist, each team, each patient has his/her/their own style and unique personality. It takes a considerable amount of time to dig in and figure out the where and how we can safely approach each other; this requires the patient to "give in" as much as one is able throughout the process. Sometimes it takes months or even longer. Yes, the cost can be prohibitive. I myself would have stayed longer if possible. The Austen Riggs Center makes clear from their web site and in the interview insurance may not pay. In fact for myself and many of my peers it did not and it was upsetting for us and for staff. The issue with the high cost of mental health care is not the fault of this hospital, but with our health care system. Our insurance carriers are not abiding by the law as it pertains to parity. Please consider demanding better treatment from your insurer. I hope we all continue seeking treatment wherever we can. For me, I continue to thank my team at Riggs, especially Dr. Delgado, Daltrey Turner and the fantastic nurses.

Austen Riggs saved my life. I went in a complete mess- coping with addition, co-morbid mental illnesses, and a no control over my life. Yes, Riggs is expensive. It's unfortunate because so few can afford it- but if you can, I implore you to do it. In seven months, I pulled myself out from a dark place to a somewhat lighter place, and was able to return back to school, work, and living in a big city. The people who work at Riggs are some of the most selfless, kindest, and wonderful people! I highly recommend it if you need serious, long term help to make yourself a functional and happy person again.

Austin Riggs literally saved our lives! Their treatment protocols were exceptionally effective and their staff is exceptionally responsive. The Center is for people who WANT the help, not just necessarily need it. If you’re willing to do the hard, often painful work and listen — really listen — to what your patient and his/her team of specialists say, your entire family can be transformed.

It has been 6 years since my stay with Austen Riggs. They saved my life. A difficulty encountered for almost all that attend is honesty. I was willing to discuss and finally surrender to my painful past, but only in my final 2 weeks did my alcoholism get discovered. I completed my time at Riggs and then went on to a Rehab for drug/alcohol abuse. I attend AA meetings and go to see a therapist weekly. I am responsible for my personal maintenance and growth, though I utilize others and all available resources. It cost money and lots of it to make the help needed available. For those that feel it is too costly, there are other options available. The great thing about our country is freedom that allows us to choose. I concur that Austen Riggs may not be for everybody, that is why checking out a number of other facilities is crucial. Thank you Austen Riggs, I have a life today and it is a good one. With Gratitude- Tom de Chauny