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Treatment For Anxiety in Tennessee: Anxiety Treatment Centers Near Me

Contact Apex Recovery Tennessee for More Information

Have you ever felt your heart racing for no apparent reason? Are you constantly planning for worst-case scenarios? Do you feel a persistent tension that never quite seems to leave your shoulders?

These experiences can be signs of an anxiety disorder, a condition that affects more than 30%  of U.S. adults at some point in their lives. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, persistent and overwhelming anxiety that interferes with daily activities can be an anxiety disorder. And unfortunately, untreated anxiety disorders can impact every aspect of daily life— from personal relationships to professional performance. The constant worry, fear, and physical symptoms can make even simple tasks seem insurmountable.

The good news, however, is that anxiety disorders are highly treatable conditions. With proper professional support and evidence-based treatment approaches, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms effectively and regain control of their lives.

Here in Tennessee, numerous anxiety treatment centers are available. Offering unparalleled anxiety treatment near Nashville, Apex Recovery offers specialized primary mental health treatment programs designed to address both anxiety disorders and co-occurring substance use disorders. Our evidence-based approach combines proven therapeutic techniques with personalized care plans to help each individual achieve lasting recovery and improved mental wellness.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, one of the first steps toward healing is to thoroughly understand the condition. So here we’ll take a deep dive into symptoms, types of anxiety, therapy options, and pharmacological treatments. However, if you or someone you love want help immediately, reach out to Apex Recovery today at (615) 703 4639. Our treatment advisors can answer your questions—and likely alleviate some of your concerns immediately. Plus, they can guide you to treatment that suits your unique needs and helps set you on a path to a calmer and more balanced life.

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

An anxiety disorder is more than just temporary worry or fear. According insights from the National Institute of Mental Health, an anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, excessive fear or worry in situations that are not realistically threatening.2 While everyone experiences anxiety occasionally, it’s the persistence and intensity of these feelings that typically elevate them to the level of an anxiety disorder.

And unfortunately, anxiety impacts more than mental health. It can impair daily functioning in social, occupational, and other important areas of life. Plus, it can impact physical and mental health over the long term, leading to:

  • Decreased quality of life and well-being
  • Difficulties maintaining relationships
  • Reduced work or academic performance
  • Increased risk of developing other health conditions

What Causes Anxiety?

According to insights from the World Health Organization, anxiety disorders develop through a complex interplay of multiple factors. Research shows that while anyone can develop an anxiety disorder, certain life experiences increase vulnerability. For example, individuals who have experienced trauma, significant loss, or adverse life events face a higher risk of developing anxiety disorders.

Not surprisingly, physical health is directly impacted by anxiety. Physical manifestations of anxiety, such as chronic tension, substance use, and elevated stress responses, can contribute to various health conditions. Plus, these symptoms are risk factors for other health concerns such as cardiovascular disease. Not surprisingly, then, anxiety disorders are associated with an increased risk for depression, substance use disorders, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Free Anxiety Disorder Assessment

Apex Recovery is dedicated to providing treatment for mental health disorders, starting with a free behavioral health assessment. This initial step helps us to identify your specific needs and determine the most suitable treatment plan for you.

At Apex Recovery Tennessee, we also offer dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both mental health disorders and co-occurring substance use challenges. Our comprehensive approach provides a consideration of all aspects of your well-being, providing effective and ongoing care specifically organised for your unique circumstances.

Treatment Centers for Anxiety Disorders in Tennessee

Despite the troubling impacts of untreated anxiety, few people actually obtain the care they need. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that only about 1 in 4 people who would benefit from anxiety treatment ever receive it. 3 However, if you live in Tennessee, various anxiety treatment options and anxiety rehab centers are available.

Among them, Apex Recovery stands out, as it offers a comprehensive anxiety treatment programs in Tennessee with facilities in the Columbia and Franklin areas. Offering both inpatient and outpatient services, our treatment programs are designed to address not only anxiety disorders but also co-occurring substance use disorders when present.

Since treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, treatment options vary. Some of the most effective treatment protocols for anxiety disorders include inpatient carepartial hospitalization programs (PHPs), and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).

If you’re not sure which level of care is the best fit for your needs for anxiety treatment in TN, reach out to Apex Recovery at (615) 703 4639. Available 24/7, our treatment advisors will listen to your needs, talk through your options, and help you determine the most appropriate level of care for your specific situation.

Residential/Inpatient Anxiety Treatment in Tennessee

  • 24/7 supervised care in a structured environment
  • Comprehensive therapeutic support
  • Ideal for severe anxiety or complex co-occurring conditions
  • Access to medical and mental health professionals 

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for Anxiety in Tennessee

  • Intensive daily treatment while living at home
  • Structured therapy sessions multiple days per week
  • Balanced approach for those needing intensive support without full hospitalization

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for Anxiety in Tennessee

  • Flexible treatment schedule
  • Allows for work or school commitments
  • Focuses on ongoing support and therapeutic interventions
  • Ideal for transitioning from higher levels of care

Do I Need Anxiety Treatment?

Many people experiencing anxiety symptoms may be uncertain whether they need professional treatment. After all, it might be hard to discern if your anxiety has shifted from mere occasional worry to more persistent and excessive anxiety. However, the following indicators suggest that you may want to seek professional help to diagnose and potentially treat your anxiety.

Your anxiety interferes with daily life:

  • Difficulty maintaining relationships
  • Problems performing at work or school
  • Avoiding social situations or important events
  • Unable to complete routine tasks

You experience persistent physical symptoms:

  • Frequent panic attacks
  • Chronic sleep problems
  • Constant muscle tension
  • Persistent digestive issues
  • Regular headaches or unexplained pain

Your thoughts and feelings are overwhelming:

  • A constant sense of fear or dread
  • Inability to control worried thoughts
  • Persistent feelings of being “on edge”
  • Difficulty concentrating due to worry

Experiencing some of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean you have an anxiety disorder. Proper diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. But if you recognize some of these signs in yourself or a loved one, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

At Apex Recovery, our admissions team is available 24/7 to provide confidential assessments and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment options for your situation. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re concerned about your anxiety levels.

Mental Health Disorder Treatment Centers in Tennessee

Access to trusted mental health treatment facilities is essential for receiving personalized support and care for mental health conditions. Tennessee is home to reputable facilities like Apex Recovery, where patients can find evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health disorders. Below is a list of Apex Recovery locations in the Volunteer State that provide comprehensive care plans for mental health to help and support you on your path to improved well-being.

  • Apex Recovery Brentwood: 209 Ward Cir, Brentwood, TN 37027
  • Apex Recovery Columbia: 2710 Trotwood Ave STE A & B, Columbia, TN 38401

How to find Mental Health Counseling and Therapy Services Near Me

Taking the courageous step to seek support for your mental health challenges is a vital first move in your recovery journey. By clearly identifying your unique needs and understanding the available options, you can find the right healthcare providers to support your ongoing recovery. Here are some key steps to help guide your search:

  • Identify Your Therapy Needs: Noting down exactly what you need assistance with is an important start. It could be that you require individual or group counselling, or specific treatments for anxiety or depression. Understanding what you need particular help with could narrow down the search for healthcare providers.
  • Check Therapy Provider’s Tennessee Locations: Searching online for the Tennessee locations of facilities that offer mental health treatments can provide insight into accessibility and convenience. A location near you in the Southern U.S. region may well make it easier to attend sessions and maintain consistency in your treatment plan.
  • Check If They Provide Inpatient or Outpatient Therapy: It may be that you have certain requirements on whether you want to receive intensive treatment as an inpatient or on a flexible outpatient basis. Finding out how to match your specific circumstances and requirements is an important part of finding the right care plan for mental health conditions for you.
  • Check Therapy Center’s Accreditation and Reputation: Research the credentials and reputation of therapy facilities offering mental health services to make sure they meet professional standards. Reading reviews left by former patients and noting official accreditations will offer some valuable insights into the overall quality of care provided.
  • Check If They Accept Insurance: It is always a positive idea to check that the treatment provider accepts your insurance plan. You can also research any other financial requirements or provisions offered. This can help you to focus on the therapeutic side of the facilities, and your ongoing mental health journey.

Free Mental Health Assessment

Schedule a free, confidential assessment with a licensed clinician. Apex Recovery can check your insurance coverage levels for drug and alcohol addiction, and mental health treatment.

Does Insurance Cover Anxiety Treatment?

Yes, most insurance providers cover treatment for anxiety disorders as part of their mental health benefits. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), mental health and substance use disorder services are considered essential health benefits that must be covered by health insurance plans.

The level of coverage for anxiety treatment can vary depending on several factors:

  • Your specific insurance plan
  • The type of treatment needed
  • Length of treatment required
  • Whether you choose in-network or out-of-network providers
  • Your plan’s deductible and copayment requirements

At Apex Recovery, we understand that navigating insurance coverage for mental health treatment can feel overwhelming. However, we’re in-network with most major insurance providers, which can minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Plus, we provide a wide range of services to meet you where you are on your mental health journey.

Plus, our admissions team can verify your insurance coverage and provide you with a thorough explanation of what’s covered and what (if any) costs you’ll likely incur. Additionally, we can help you navigate any prior authorizations. So concerns about insurance coverage don’t need to be a barrier to seeking the help you need. At Apex Recovery, we also offer other ways of paying for anxiety rehab if you do not have insurance, and for more information about these payment options, please contact our admissions team at (615) 703 4639.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders manifest in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and challenges. The American Psychiatric Association asserts that while these disorders share common features of excessive fear and anxiety, they differ in the types of situations that trigger these responses. 

Some of the most common types of anxiety disorders include:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD includes persistent and excessive worry that significantly interferes with daily activities. Physical symptoms include restlessness, feeling on edge, unexpected fatigue, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep problems. Unlike many other types of anxiety, it’s often associated with ordinary aspects of life, e.g., job responsibilities and family health, as well as minor matters like chores and appointments.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks that strike seemingly out of the blue. They can trigger severe physical and psychological reactions even when there’s no real danger present. What sets panic disorder apart from occasional panic attacks is the persistent fear of future attacks and the behavioral changes people make to avoid situations they believe might trigger them. 

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder is an intense fear of social situations where a person might feel judged, scrutinized, or embarrassed. This condition causes significant distress and leads to excessive social avoidance that interferes with daily life. Unlike occasional nervousness, social anxiety disorder is persistent.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is a challenging mental health condition marked by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Think of it as a cycle: Distressing thoughts trigger anxiety, leading to ritualistic behaviors performed to reduce that anxiety. While these behaviors might provide temporary relief, they ultimately reinforce the cycle.

Phobias

A specific phobia is an intense, irrational fear of something that typically poses little or no real danger (e.g., leaving your home, spiders, tight spaces, dogs, etc.). When someone is confronted with a feared situation, immediate and intense anxiety is triggered. While people with specific phobias often recognize their fear is excessive, they feel powerless to control their reaction.

Therapies Used in Anxiety Disorder Treatment

Evidence-based therapeutic approaches play a crucial role in treating anxiety disorders effectively. According to research published in the Dialogues of Clinical Neuroscience, a combination of different therapeutic modalities often provides the best outcomes for anxiety treatment.

The following therapeutic approaches are commonly used in anxiety treatment:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is the gold standard in anxiety treatment. It uses a structured approach to identify and modify negative thought patterns. This evidence-based therapy helps patients unlearn harmful thoughts and behaviors while developing healthier thinking patterns and practical coping strategies. Research consistently shows that CBT leads to significant improvements in functioning and quality of life for anxiety patients.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy creates a private, safe environment where clients work one-on-one with a licensed therapist to explore their unique anxiety triggers and concerns. During these personalized sessions, therapists help clients develop tailored coping strategies while providing a confidential space to explore underlying issues that may contribute to their anxiety.

Experiential Therapy

Experiential therapy takes a creative approach to anxiety management through activities like art, music, or movement therapy. This alternative treatment method helps individuals process emotions through creative expression while building confidence through new experiences. It provides unique ways to manage anxiety that might be particularly helpful for those who struggle with traditional talk therapy.

Severe or Crisis-Related Signs

Severe or crisis-related signs indicate urgent mental health concerns that require immediate attention and professional intervention. Recognizing these symptoms early can be vital in ensuring safety and well-being. Below are examples of severe signs:

  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide: Experiencing recurring thoughts of harming oneself or ending one’s life, often accompanied by intense emotional pain. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency call or text 988. Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Substance misuse or increased alcohol/drug consumption: Relying on substances to cope with day-to-day struggles could lead to further mental health decline.
  • Inability to carry out daily tasks: Experiencing severe difficulty in managing daily responsibilities such as personal hygiene, work, or household chores.
  • Extreme emotional distress or breakdowns: Facing overwhelming feelings that lead to uncontrollable tears, anger, or emotional shutdowns.
  • Panic attacks or overwhelming fear: Sudden, intense episodes of fear or physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or breathlessness.

Medications Used for Anxiety Treatment

Medication can play an important role in managing anxiety disorders when prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. According to recent data published in Frontiers in Psychology, pharmacological interventions can provide significant relief from anxiety symptoms while other therapeutic approaches take effect.

The following medications are commonly prescribed for anxiety treatment:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are first-line treatments for many anxiety disorders, as they help to regulate mood by increasing serotonin levels. Examples include: sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and escitalopram (Lexapro).

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

These dual-action medications impact both serotonin and norepinephrine and are effective in treating panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and agoraphobia. Examples include: venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Anti-Anxiety Medications (Anxiolytics)

Benzodiazepines are a type of anxiolytic often used for short-term intervention with anxiety disorders. They typically provided rapid relief of acute symptoms. Examples include: alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan).

Other Medications

Other medications that may be employed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for anxiety disorders include mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, beta blockers, and azapirones.

It’s important to note that medication decisions are highly individualized and should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Factors that influence medication choice include:

  • Specific type of anxiety disorder
  • Presence of co-occurring conditions
  • Previous treatment experiences
  • Personal medical history
  • Potential side effects and interactions

At Apex Recovery, our medical team works closely with each client to determine the most appropriate medication strategy as part of their comprehensive treatment plan. All medications are carefully monitored and adjusted as needed to ensure optimal therapeutic benefit while minimizing side effects.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Contact Apex Recovery Tennessee today! We’ll verify your insurance coverage for mental health treatment and guide you through a smooth, stress-free admissions process.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety manifests through a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, all of which can ebb and flow in terms of severity. Additionally, various types of anxiety disorders exist—e.g., social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), agoraphobia, and more—and each type has its own unique set of symptoms.

So while each individual’s experience with anxiety is unique, common symptoms of generalized anxiety include:

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  • Sweating and trembling
  • Fatigue and sleep disturbances
  • Muscle tension and headaches
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea or stomach problems

Psychological Symptoms of Anxiety

  • Excessive worry about everyday things
  • Difficulty controlling worrying thoughts
  • Restlessness or feeling “on-edge”
  • Problems with concentration
  • Irritability
  • Avoidance of anxiety-triggering situations

Behavioral Symptoms of Anxiety

  • Social withdrawal
  • Procrastination
  • Changes in eating patterns
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Seeking reassurance frequently

Find Anxiety Rehab Facilities Near Me in Tennessee

When excessive worry and fear begin to interfere with your daily life, you deserve more than just coping mechanisms. You deserve comprehensive, professional anxiety treatment in Tennessee that can transform your relationship with anxiety.

Apex Recovery maintains various specialized anxiety treatment facilities across Tennessee, offering both inpatient and outpatient services for individuals struggling with anxiety disorders. Our treatment centers for anxiety disorders are located in Columbia and Franklin, where they provide comprehensive care in comfortable, healing environments.

Our treatment network includes dedicated inpatient facilities for those requiring intensive, ‘round-the-clock care, as well as outpatient centers that allow clients to maintain their daily responsibilities while receiving expert care. This range of options ensures that each person can access the level of care that best suits their needs and circumstances.

At the heart of our program is our exceptional clinical team. Our experienced therapists and psychologists have successfully treated thousands of individuals suffering from various forms of anxiety disorders. Each member of our clinical staff brings extensive training in evidence-based anxiety treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and other proven approaches. Their expertise allows us to provide personalized treatment plans that address not only the symptoms of anxiety but also its underlying causes.

Don’t let anxiety control your life. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to help you understand how Apex Recovery can support your journey to wellness. We’ll take the time to understand your specific situation, verify your insurance coverage, and guide you through the entire admission process.

Contact us today at (615) 703 4639 to take the first step toward managing your anxiety and reclaiming your life.

Anxiety Treatment Centers in Tennessee

When excessive worry and fear begin to interfere with your daily life, you deserve more than just coping mechanisms. You deserve comprehensive, professional anxiety treatment in Tennessee that can transform your relationship with anxiety.

Apex Recovery maintains various specialized anxiety treatment facilities across Tennessee, offering both inpatient and outpatient services for individuals struggling with anxiety disorders. Our treatment centers for anxiety disorders are located in Columbia and Franklin, where they provide comprehensive care in comfortable, healing environments.

Our treatment network includes dedicated inpatient facilities for those requiring intensive, ‘round-the-clock care, as well as outpatient centers that allow clients to maintain their daily responsibilities while receiving expert care. This range of options ensures that each person can access the level of care that best suits their needs and circumstances.

At the heart of our program is our exceptional clinical team. Our experienced therapists and psychologists have successfully treated thousands of individuals suffering from various forms of anxiety disorders. Each member of our clinical staff brings extensive training in evidence-based anxiety treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and other proven approaches. Their expertise allows us to provide personalized treatment plans that address not only the symptoms of anxiety but also its underlying causes.

Don’t let anxiety control your life. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to help you understand how Apex Recovery can support your journey to wellness. We’ll take the time to understand your specific situation, verify your insurance coverage, and guide you through the entire admission process.

Contact us today at (615) 703 4639 to take the first step toward managing your anxiety and reclaiming your life.

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Sources

  1. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Any Anxiety Disorder.
  2. National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Anxiety Disorders.
  3. World Health Organization. (2023). Anxiety Disorders.
  4. National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2017). Anxiety Disorders.
  5. American Psychiatric Association. (2023). What are Anxiety Disorders?
  6. National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
  7. Bandelow B, Michaelis S, Wedekind D. Treatment of anxiety disorders. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2017 Jun;19(2):93-107. doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2017.19.2/bbandelow. PMID: 28867934; PMCID: PMC5573566.
  8. American Psychological Association. (2017). What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
  9. University of California Davis Health. (2024). Symptoms of anxiety and how to know when you need help.  
  10. National Health Service. (2022). Signs of an Anxiety Disorder.
  11. Garakani A, Murrough JW, Freire RC, Thom RP, Larkin K, Buono FD, Iosifescu DV. Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options. Front Psychiatry. 2020 Dec 23;11:595584. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.595584. PMID: 33424664; PMCID: PMC7786299.
  12. Farach FJ, Pruitt LD, Jun JJ, Jerud AB, Zoellner LA, Roy-Byrne PP. Pharmacological treatment of anxiety disorders: current treatments and future directions. J Anxiety Disord. 2012 Dec;26(8):833-43. doi: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2012.07.009. Epub 2012 Aug 15. PMID: 23023162; PMCID: PMC3539724.
  13. Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. (n.d.). Anxiety: Pharmacotherapy.

Brenna O’Brien, LCSW

Lead Therapist

Brenna is a Nashville native who earned both her undergraduate and master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from The University of Tennessee where she graduated in 2011. She has a thirteen-year background working in the behavioral health field with adults at all levels of care. Brenna started her career working at a local inpatient hospital, followed by a six year career with a residential co-occurring treatment center. Brenna served as the founder and director of the Clinical Consultant team where she developed protocols to assist patients in getting access to care efficiently without sacrificing customer service. As a result of her efforts, she was named the treatment center’s Innovator of the Year in 2018. She loves to be the voice of hope for patients and families in crisis by providing education and clinical direction.
Brenna’s fun-loving and accepting nature has served her well as a clinician treating individuals struggling with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and co-occurring disorders. Brenna is a certified NARM therapist and co-owner of SHEchiatry, PLLC, a boutique mental health practice for women in Nashville.

During her off time, you can find Brenna thrift shopping alongside her French Bulldog Reau. She also particularly enjoys early mornings with a matcha latte followed by all things local.

Flora Sadri-Azarbayejani, D.O., MPH, FAAFP, FASAM

Medical Director

Flora Sadri-Azarbayejani graduated from Boston University with a degree in biomedical engineering. She would later go on to complete two master’s degrees at Boston University, one in epidemiology and biostatistics and the other in medical science, along with her doctorate in medicine from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Sadri began her career as an epidemiologist in infectious disease for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. After medical school, she began her career as a family physician at The Community Health Center of Franklin County and then Gardner Family Medicine, a private practice in Gardner, MA. Dr. Sadri made the decision to work with the recovery community as a physician at CleanSlate Centers, then become part of the Promises Behavioral Health leadership team, and then continued her career at PsyclarityHealth.

Dr. Sadri-Azarbayejani is an involved member of medical societies, including the Massachusetts Medical Society, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)and has a publication in AAFP News detailing how family medicine can lead addiction care efforts.

LinkedIn profile link: linkedin.com/in/flora-sadri-azarbayejani-42023345

Fred Bowen

Founder & Board Member

Fred was raised in San Clemente, California. Fred was exposed to the drug culture at a very early age. By the time Fred had graduated from high school, his addiction had progressed to a point that most people do not return from. For another decade, he struggled with addiction and recovery with multiple attempts at abstinence. There were periods of homelessness along with periods of high functioning and experiencing success. Fred realized, ultimately, that addiction was always in control. At the age of thirty, on death’s door, Fred had hit rock bottom and had a moment of clarity that would save his life. That clarity was the sea of change in his life.

20 years later, Fred is not able to recognize his past life in comparison to where he is now. Early on, Fred had made the decision that addiction and recovery would be his sole vocation. He started sober living homes and found that working with people that suffered from the same addiction would be his passion. This was the beginning of Apex Recovery.

“I’m extremely proud of the person I have become simply by staying clean and having an open mind in regards to the recovery process.”

Fred’s hope for anyone suffering the way he did is to be able to find a way out of the vicious cycle of addiction. Recovery is a gift that all are entitled to. Apex can be a part of that.

Jennifer Adams

Chief Legal Officer

Jennifer has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She began her career as a paralegal in the legal department of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee (BCBST), where she spent 15 years learning the health insurance industry. Jennifer held various positions at BCBST, including paralegal, senior privacy consultant, chief privacy, security and compliance officer for a technology subsidiary, and shared health and senior counsel.

Jennifer then further advanced her healthcare experience by joining the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for almost 10 years. Jennifer served as the director for payer Relations, where she was responsible for managing all payer relationships across the country for the VA. In her last position, Jennifer was a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES) and served as the executive director for integrated external networks, which was responsible for the development, oversight, and management of the community care network program that provides veterans access to community providers when VA cannot provide the service timely or close to home.

Jennifer joined Apex Recovery in February 2023 as our chief legal officer. Jennifer graduated from Tennessee Wesleyan College with a Bachelor of Science business degree in human resource management, economics, and finance. She also holds a Juris Doctorate degree from the Nashville School of Law.

Branch Atkisson

National Director of Business Development

A passion for helping those in need started with Branch’s own personal experience growing up. This morphed into professional expertise in the areas of outreach and community development.

A true understanding of what treatment resources are available and how to connect those in need with them has allowed him to develop relationships that continue to benefit APEX’s patients. “I love sitting with addicts and their families in moments of crisis and helping them understand there is hope through the process of treatment!”

Shauna Soderquist

Director of Admissions

Shauna Soderquist is the director of admissions at Apex Recovery. With over nine years of industry experience, Shauna is committed to helping those who struggle with addiction and has experience with all facets of the admissions cycle. Her experience includes lead development, account management, building and growing teams, and recruitment and training. She brings a high-level understanding of insurance and financial implications of treatment. Shauna is a high performer who is driven to meet and exceed goals and while her career path has given her exposure to all parts of the treatment and recovery processes, her passion will always be in building and maintaining relationships with clients while helping them admit to treatment.

Shauna resides in Thompson’s Station, TN with her husband, and two children and is an active member of her community. When she is not helping those who struggle with addiction, she enjoys spending time with her family, working out, traveling, and enjoying live music.

Michael Cartwright

Chairman of the Board

There is no end in sight for Michael Cartwright. He has a sincere goal to provide endless resources to those who truly want to release the grip of addiction.

Known as a premiere addiction industry trailblazer, Michael Cartwright is a noted behavioral health entrepreneur. He founded Performance Revolution LLC, also known as Fit-Rx, in 2009 and, from that success, was then able to merge with a company named Forterus with a successful history of treating over 12 million individuals in need of addiction treatment. Another success in the industry was the founding of Foundations Recovery Network.

Soon thereafter, Forterus grew and developed into AAC or American Addiction Centers being led by their chairman of the board, Michael Cartwright.

Michael Cartwright is a pillar in dual diagnosis management and the founder of Foundations Associates. Under his management, the organization grew to include four alcohol and drug treatment facilities nationwide, including the Canyon, the leading recovery facility in Malibu, California. One highlight in Michael’s service career is when he served and testified on the Senate Help Subcommittee on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services.

Dr. Matthew Bruhin

CEO

Dr. Matthew J. Bruhin is the chief executive officer of APEX Recovery. Along with co-founder Fred Bowen, Dr. Bruhin utilized his experience in the creation of high-end rehabs to construct a center that was cutting-edge and affordable yet lacked nothing. His vision, eye for detail, and desire to lead have created an unparalleled vision for treating addictive disorders coupled with mental and emotional concerns. Dr. Bruhin treats every staff member and participant like family and hopes to bring his clinical and administrative vision to many.

Dr. Bruhin is a State of California Board of Behavioral Sciences-licensed marriage and family therapist as well as an addiction specialist registered by the Breining Institute. Dr. Bruhin earned his doctorate in addiction psychology, has a Master of Arts degree in counseling psychology, and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology with a minor in addictive disorders. Additionally, he holds many other certifications and has tens of thousands of hours of clinical and training experience.

Dr. Bruhin has a diverse clinical training background, working in the mental health field for over 12 years. He specializes in the treatment of addiction and has specialized experience and clinical training in the treatment of prescription addiction, sexual addiction, and gambling addiction. He works with many individuals and families, ranging from those with chronic mental health conditions to high-level professionals, professional athletes, executives, Hollywood film producers, and TV personalities. He has developed his own specialized and effective techniques for the treatment of addiction and chemical dependency.

Dr. Bruhin loves to write and blog and he appears regularly on network TV as a leader in the addiction field. He has worked with clients from A&E’s hit TV show Intervention as well as the Tyra Show. Dr. Bruhin also performs local TV segments in order to get the public educated about addiction and to break down the stigma of mental health issues. Dr. Bruhin balances his passion for work with the love of his family, his enjoyment of travel, and his vintage Star Wars collection, which can be viewed in his private office.