Avenues Recovery Baton Rouge Rehab

Baton Rouge, an Avenues Recovery Location

Welcome to Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where we’ll help you recover for good — with innovative treatment and a community that’s with you forever.

225-308-8080 CHECK ACCEPTED INSURANCES

About Us

Avenues Recovery Baton Rouge Rehab is an alcohol and drug detox and rehabilitation facility located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. At Avenues' rehab in Baton Rouge, we understand that each person's journey to sobriety is unique. Our dedicated staff develops personalized rehabilitation plans for each client, with inpatient, outpatient and detox programs targeting both the body and mind. 

This tailored approach ensures all-encompassing treatment and  support, resulting in lasting recovery. Our success stories show the transformative impact of Avenues, gifting clients with newfound purpose in life after overcoming drug and alcohol dependencies.

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Where You'll stay

Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge Rehab is a state-of-the-art drug and alcohol rehab and treatment center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Our Baton Rouge detox and rehab center is housed in a spacious, newly-remodeled facility, complete with cozy and inviting rooms, large and airy public spaces, and modern, youthful decor throughout. Each detail of our building is designed to give you the serenity and breadth of mind needed to focus on your recovery.

What You'll Do

If you need detox at the beginning of treatment at Avenues drug and alcohol rehab in Baton Rouge, you'll start your stay in our restful detox wing. Once medically cleared, you'll move on to our residential program. Your days will be filled with a challenging yet energizing mix of individual therapy, group sessions, educational workshops, skill-building, and recovery-focused recreational activities, as you expand your recovery toolbox and develop effective coping techniques. While on your recovery journey, you’ll be flanked by a wonderfully caring staff, and a warm community of fellow recovering addicts. 

 

  • Individual Therapy
  • Group Sessions
  • Family and Couple Counseling
  • Daily 12-Step Meetings 
  • Holistic Therapies
  • Yoga, Art, Music, and Meditation
  • Exciting Weekend Activities and Outings
  • Independent Living Skills
  • Workforce Re-entry Program

Treatment Modalities

At the core of our treatment philosophy is the belief that each person - and their  recovery journey - is unique. That's why at Avenues Recovery Center's drug and alcohol treatment centers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, we create individualized treatment plans for each and every client. We choose from a wide variety of targeted, tried-and-true treatment modalities to deliver the most effective treatment experience to every person in our care. Our multifaceted staff will discover the root of your addiction, tailoring your treatment to your unique circumstances and helping you heal on every level. 

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Avenues Recovery Baton Rouge Rehab

Baton Rouge Detox, Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center

2414 Bunker Hill Dr. | Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808
AdmissionsLA@avenuesrecovery.com

Give us a call! 225-308-8080

Cities We Serve

Shreveport Lake Charles Lafayette Denham Springs Bossier City Alexandria Houma Prairieville Gonzales Ponchatoula Thibodaux Zachary Central Walker Ruston Port Allen Geismar Baker
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Why Avenues

Because you’re going to have bad days.

(We all do!) And we won’t let you give up.

No-giving-up
policy

We’re in this with you, no matter how hard it is.

Local
facilities

So you can bring your healing back home.

Evidence-based
treatment

A toolbox of treatments — customized to your needs.

Dual diagnosis
treatment

Get answers & support for both your physical & emotional health.

Real world
support

Job retraining, relationship counseling, and more.

Incredible alumni program

So you can stay sober — and love the rest of your life.

AA Meetings, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Take your recovery with you,
wherever you go.

Monday Night Speaker Group

1700 Lee Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
 

Insane Into Action Vet’s Group

3550 Morning Glory Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
 

Redstick Recovery Group

7434 Picardy Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
 

Fellowship Group

3550 Dalrymple Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Chimes Street Group

333 E Chimes Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Between Drinks

333 E Chimes Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Three Legacies Group

4264 Capital Heights Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Saturday Night Live

4264 Capital Heights Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

A Design For Living

4264 Capital Heights Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

The Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge Team

Staffed with a full-time physician, psychiatrist, and licensed counselors, the Avenues Recovery team is warm, loving, and acutely qualified to help you!

Matt Engler

Regional Executive Director
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Matthew Engler is the Regional Executive Director for Avenues Recovery of Louisiana. After having grown up in Destrehan, Louisiana, Matthew joined the military where he spent his enlistment in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Upon getting sober he ultimately began working in the substance abuse treatment industry. He started his career as a Behavioral Health Technician and moved throughout multiple departments working multiple positions which gave him a wholistic understanding of what the clients need and how to best serve them. Matthew is a loving father to two young boys. He and his children spend their time fishing, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Matthew believes in and exhibits his core values of family, hard work, dedication, and commitment. Through his work, Matthew hopes to have an impact on addiction, treatment, and recovery for the suffering addict and those close to them. His biggest passion in the workplace is to identify entry level employees as top-level leaders and aid them in the path to becoming that leader.

Dr. Susan Julius, MD, DABPM, DABFM, FASAM, CMRO

Regional Medical Director
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Susan Julius, MD, ABAM, ABFM, AAMRO, Medical Director, is a clinician, speaker, and teacher. She is board certified in Family and Addiction Medicine and Physical Therapy, and holds a special degree in urine drug testing analysis. Dr. Julius studied Physical Therapy at Cleveland State University, and attended Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. She trained for two years in General Surgery at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and completed a Family Practice residency at Ochsner Foundation Hospital, in Jefferson, Louisiana.

Dr. Julius incorporated her background in these areas, along with her understanding of the biology of addiction and her personal journey in recovery, to treat patients and families with this disease for over ten years. She worked at Choices of Louisiana, a methadone clinic in La Place, Louisiana, and was Medical Director for the City of New Orleans Homeless Clinic and Townsend Clinic, in Lake Charles and Baton Rouge. Currently, she is the Medical Director at Townsend Recovery Center in New Orleans.


Dr. Julius has been an expert consultant and keynote speaker for American Addiction Centers and was featured on NBC News, Fox News, Baton Rouge Business Report, and New Orleans Happy Hour Podcast. She worked with the New Orleans Re-Entry Program and is active in AA and served on the Local Action Committee for International Doctors in Alcoholics Anonymous. She is a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Medical Association, and the American Association of Medical Review Officers. She lives in New Orleans with her husband and three dogs and loves to swim, garden, and operate her vacation rental.

Robert Fezekas, LAC LCSW

Regional Clinical Director
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Robert R. Fezekas II LAC, LCSW Clinical Director of Avenues Covington, has been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 10 years. His passion for working with those who suffer with substance abuse disorders stems from his own recovery journey!


After completing treatment in 2009, he immediately entered college at Southern University at New Orleans, where he graduated with honors with both his Bachelor’s of Science in Substance Abuse and master's degree in Social Work. Rob has had various roles throughout his career, such as recovery support staff, counselor, Director of IOP, Director of Social Services, and now Clinical Director here at Avenues.


He has worked closely with multiple court systems and Veterans' Affairs to customize evidence-based programming to best treat their clients.
Within his community in St. Bernard Parish, he works closely with community leaders to advocate for prevention, treatment, and recovery resources. Rob does his community work through a non-profit group he helped found named St. Bernard Recovery Awareness.


Robert believes that every client has the potential to recover and looks forward to working with every client that enters his Avenues facility!

Mason Smith

Executive Director
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Mason Smith is the Executive Director at Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team. Originally from Houma, Louisiana, he completed his undergraduate studies at Husson University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. He then furthered his education at Rutgers University, obtaining a Master of Social Work.

Mason's passion for helping individuals battling addiction and mental illness has been a driving force throughout his career. He finds real fulfillment in watching clients progress through their treatment journeys, noting that there is something truly remarkable about seeing individuals reclaim their lives. He believes that effective addiction treatment requires a commitment to work harder than the clients themselves, providing compassionate guidance and unwavering support as they navigate their paths to recovery.

In addition to his professional responsibilities, Mason enjoys spending quality time with his wife and their two beloved cats. An outdoor enthusiast, he loves riding his motorcycle, exploring new places, and  staying active in mind and body through regular exercise. With his unique perspective and commitment to quality care, Mason is dedicated to fostering an environment where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered on their recovery journey.

Katie Ferrell

Administrator

Alex VanGeffen

Clinical Supervisor

Lauren Dupont

RN Manager

Lacey Miller

Nurse Practitioner

Megan Breaux

Nurse Practitioner

David Beckham

Operations Manager
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David Beckham, originally from Waco, Texas, holds a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry from Trevecca Nazarene University. As an Operations Manager at Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge, David is deeply committed to helping individuals reclaim their lives and find hope in recovery. His personal experiences with addiction and witnessing the profound impact of effective treatment have fueled his dedication to ensuring that the facility runs at the highest standards. David believes in a holistic, individualized approach to treatment, understanding that each person's journey is unique and requires tailored care and support.

Outside of his professional life, David is a devoted family man. He is happily married and the proud father of two children and two grandchildren. His large extended family includes five stepchildren and thirteen step-grandchildren, and together they enjoy spending quality time outdoors. With their black Labrador, Titan, by their side, they often engage in activities like camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting, fostering a love for nature and strengthening their bond as a family.

Melissa Blackson, PLPC

Primary Counselor
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Melissa Blackson,PLPC, works as a primary counselor at Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge. Hailing from Winnsboro, Louisiana, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Family Consumer Sciences and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern University. Currently, Melissa is working toward becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and anticipates full licensure by the end of this year.

Melissa's passion for addiction treatment ignited during her internship, where she witnessed the profound struggles of individuals battling severe addictions. This experience deepened her commitment to helping others find hope and purpose in their lives. With a focus on empathy and respect, Melissa strives to ensure that those facing substance abuse feel seen, understood, and valued, recognizing the emotional neglect they may have endured.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Melissa is the youngest of four siblings, cherishing the dynamics of her close-knit family, whose parents have been married for 39 years. She enjoys traveling, exploring new cuisines, playing video games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA 5, engaging in chess matches, and learning pop and alternative songs on the piano.

Mytasia Thompkins, CIT

Primary Counselor
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Mytasia Thompkins serves as Primary counselor at Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge. Originally from the small country town of Raceland, Louisiana, Mytasia holds a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Southern University. She is currently enrolled in graduate school for Clinical Mental Health Counseling, on her way to becoming a Licensed Addiction Counselor.

Her passion for addiction treatment stems from personal experiences, as she has seen firsthand the devastating impact of substance abuse on her family. Mytasia lost her grandfather to Fentanyl, her grandmother battled cocaine addiction, and her uncle passed away from a heroin overdose. Her sister’s ongoing struggle with addiction has also deeply affected her family. Additionally, her time in the Criminal Justice system further highlighted the connection between addiction and societal challenges. Mytasia's approach to treatment is grounded in the Biopsychosocial Model, focusing on the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social influences on addiction.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Mytasia enjoys traveling, connecting with nature, and practicing prayer and meditation before bed. She also loves watching historical documentaries and is a proud dog mom to her Yorkie, Riley.

Antonio Miller

Primary Counselor
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Antonio Miller, originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, has a diverse educational background, attending Southern University in New Orleans, the University of Phoenix-Metairie Campus, and Capella University. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Office Management and Secretarial Sciences in 1987, followed by a Master of Science in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix in 2001. In 2012, Antonio completed his Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University.

Currently a Counselor-In-Training (CIT), Antonio is working toward becoming a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC). His passion for addiction treatment stems from his understanding of the pain caused by addiction, not only to those who struggle with it but also to their loved ones. Antonio believes in meeting individuals where they are, offering support without judgment, and recognizes that everyone has experienced some form of pain or grief. His approach is rooted in humility and connection, aiming to help those in need find healing and hope.

Shakira Edwards

Primary Counselor
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Shakira Edwards is a primary counselor at Avenues Recovery Center at Baton Rouge. She is a native of New Orleans, and holds a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Southern University and A&M College, as well as a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She is currently pursuing her credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), driven by a passion for supporting individuals battling substance use disorders. Inspired by personal experiences from her childhood, Shakira approaches addiction treatment with a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework. She focuses on helping clients identify and correct maladaptive behaviors, enhance their motivation for change, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Outside of her professional life, Shakira enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking delicious meals—often for her beloved fur baby, Princess—and traveling to meet new people and experience different cultures.

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EXPLORE OUR ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS

Detox
Program

Our detox center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana is for individuals who require medical detox before beginning their recovery journey.

Residential
Treatment

Our Baton Rouge inpatient treatment program offers a safe, structured environment for you to heal and rebuild.

Outpatient
Treatment

Our outpatient rehab program provides weekly therapy sessions in Baton Rouge for post-treatment individuals.

Alumni
Program

Our alumni program is a warm sober support network - part emotional support, part family, part party.

INSURANCE PLANS

Avenues Recovery Center at Oklahoma accepts most insurances as well as private pay. We are in-network with the following insurances:

Anthem BlueCross
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
First Health
Harvard Pilgrim
Highmark
Horizon
QualCare
Tricare
Muli Plan
VA Community Care Network

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See if you’re covered

What
happens
next?

We'll get on a call, assess your health history, and verify your insurance. Today is Day 1. We can't wait to celebrate Day 1000 with you!

225-308-8080

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VIEW ALL ADDICTION RESOURCES