Welcome to Riverfront Recovery Center of North Georgia

A Life-Changing Addiction Treatment Center in North Georgia

A Sanctuary for Healing tucked away on 25 of the most pristine waterfront acres that Georgia has to offer, Riverfront Recovery offers a peaceful and private escape for individuals seeking renewal.

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Hundreds of positive reviews

Drug & Alcohol Rehab Surrounded by Peace & Support

At our core, we believe that addiction is a chronic condition. One of the things that sets Riverfront Recovery Center apart from almost every other provider is that we refuse to just manage symptoms; we work to uncover what got you here and how you can avoid going back. Doing this is difficult…. Real work often is; But because we take such extreme ownership over the outcomes we help create, symptom management alone is not an option. Think of addiction like a giant boulder blocking the entryway to a life beyond your wildest imagination! 

As a provider, it is our job to help you realize three very important things:

  • Life beyond the boulder is amazing and worth the challenge it takes to move it.
  • It is completely attainable.
  • You are 100% worthy of it.

Once you believe those three things, then we can start moving the boulder together. Getting it to budge is impossible on your own. It takes a team of people around you who want you to have that life as badly as you do. Mix that with an ounce of willingness and a vapor of courage on your part, and together we move what feels like an immovable object.​

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Treatment here is covered by all major insurance companies

Aetna
Anthem
BCBS
Beacon
Cigna
Geha
Humana
Magellan
MultiPlan
NYShip
UMR
UnitedHealthcare
Verify Insurance

Inpatient Detox & Residential Rehab Options

Detox: Where Compassion Meets Clinical Excellence

At the core of our detox program is an unbelievably accomplished medical team with decades of experience treating substance use disorders. Our Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) provide 24/7 care under the supervision of a phenomenal, board-certified Addiction Medicine Internist.

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Residential Treatment: Personalized, Purposeful, Proven

Our residential program is built to clinically support individuals for up to 90 days—without ever feeling stagnant or repetitive. Thanks to our intentionally intimate setting and exceptionally low client-to-therapist ratios, each day in treatment feels personalized, purposeful, and dynamic.

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Here’s Why People Choose Riverfront

Choose intimacy. Choose nature. Choose recovery that lasts.

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It Starts With One Simple Call

Step 1

Initial Call

The first call helps determine if our program is the right fit for you. We’ll discuss insurance upfront, answer your questions, and provide clarity—without any pressure or obligation.

Step 2

Get Scheduled

If it feels like a good match, we’ll schedule your admission together. Sometimes same-day admissions can be accomidated, so you can begin your journey without delay.

Step 3

Show Up

You’ll be greeted with warm compassion and guided through the process. Stay until you feel better physically and mentally, which typically takes a few weeks.

Take The First Step Now!

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Taking the first step can feel daunting, but the team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Combined Years of Experience

Decades of expertise in the medical, therapeutic and compliance aspects of addiction treatment.

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Client Satisfaction

Patients consistently praise our personalized care, unmatched support and a focus on lasting recovery. 

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Award Winning

An A+ rating from the BBB and glowing Google reviews reflect our dedication to excellence in care.

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Our Team

The Most Caring & Skilled Addiction Experts In Georgia

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Josh Foster

Chief Executive Officer | Co - Founder

Josh Foster’s journey to co-founding Riverfront Recovery Center began long before he entered the world of healthcare leadership.

Josh Foster

Chief Executive Officer | Co-Founder

Robert Crocker

Co - Founder | Recovery Advocate

Robert Crocker is a passionate leader, father, and person in long - term recovery who has dedicated the past decade to transforming lives through behavioral healthcare.

Robert Crocker

Co – Founder | Recovery Advocate

Kris Shock, LPC, CMAC

Clinical Director | Addiction & Eating Disorder Specialist

Kris Shock is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Masters Addiction Counselor with over 20 years of experience

Kris Shock, LPC, CMAC

Clinical Director | Addiction & Eating Disorder Specialist

Brian Sheets

Executive Director

Brian brings both professional experience and personal insight to the work of helping individuals overcome substance use disorders.

Brian Sheets

Executive Director

Lisa Aiello, APRN, PMHNP - C

Director of Nursing | Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Lisa Aiello is a dual - certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience

Lisa Aiello, APRN, PMHNP - C

Director of Nursing

Sherry Lawson

Lead Therapist

Sherry Lawson brings a wealth of clinical expertise, leadership, and heart to Riverfront Recovery Center.

Sherry Lawson

Lead Therapist

Kimberly Holloway, LPN

Licensed Practical Nurse | Addiction Medicine Specialist

Kimberly Holloway is a skilled Licensed Practical Nurse with over a decade of experience in addiction treatment, family medicine, rehabilitation, and clinical research.

Kimberly Holloway, LPN

Licensed Practical Nurse | Addiction Medicine Specialist

Dr. Derek Klemm, DO, PharmD

Medical Director

Dr. Derek Klemm brings a rare dual credential in osteopathic medicine and pharmacy to his role as Medical Director at Riverfront Recovery Center.

Dr. Derek Klemm, DO, PharmD

Medical Director

Cooper DeNegre

Director of Business Development | Recovery Advocate | Community Liaison

Cooper DeNegre is a passionate behavioral health leader with a proven track record of launching and scaling substance abuse treatment programs across the Southeast.

Cooper DeNegre

Director of Business Development | Recovery Advocate | Community Liaison

Jason Boyer

Head Chef

Classically trained in French and Italian cuisine, Jason draws from his own journey of recovery to blend culinary expertise with faith and purpose, teaching and inspiring others—and now brings that passion to Riverfront.

Jason Boyer

Head Chef

Testimonials

Real Stories. Real Recovery.

2.5

Average Rating on Google from Reviews

So I did my detox and residential at Riverfront and it literally changed my life. Not only are the staff some of the most caring people on the planet, but the location is heaven on earth. You are literally on the river in serenity and peace and every morning that you wake up, I promise you, you will be so thankful that you were waking up there. The care was second and none I was never uncomfortable not even for a moment. The groups are great led by amazingly wonderful people who are just like you, everyone is in recovery themselves so when they say that they know what you’re going through they truly mean it because they do. Listen to them on any suggestions about aftercare as well because you’re going to want to follow through with any advice that they give you. I am 30 days sober for the first time in over two years and it’s all due to riverfront. I promise you if you’re trying to save your life this is the place to go. I miss y’all so much. You have no idea how much you have helped me and I am in my aftercare program right now and I am continuing in my sobriety.
The food is five stars and I promise you you were never gonna eat like you do at this place. It’s the one thing I miss the most lol also, I have made friends that I will keep for the rest of my life.

I’ve been to a few rehabs, and this place truly felt like home. The campus is absolutely gorgeous, the food is FANTASTIC, and the staff is the absolute best. The community here is fantastic and this place really makes you feel like you’re worth something and that you are special. I would recommend this place to any and everyone struggling with addiction. I’ve never been someone so dedicated to me getting better and they are NOT money greedy, they simply want you better and will set you up for absolute success. This place cares and Josh the director is a great guy. Thank you Riverfront!!! <3

From my point of view River Front Recovery is an awesome rehabilitation!!! My peers including myself found the best out of this program that I could tell. everyone enjoyed and here stay with very few complaints. River front goes by a strict meeting schedule be prepared to attend but, the way this program works the willingness of everybody makes you vulnerable and ready to change unlike any other rehabs. The therapist are understanding and work with you to come up with the best solution for your problem. River Front is a beautiful scenery over the Hiawasee mountain area includes fishing offsite activities and a very friendly staff and awesome nurses. I would like to thank the river front maintenance
Crew member for keeping the cabins CLEAN!!! And top tear. Take pride in yourself when you come, clean up after yourself and take advantage of the program. ANYTHING! that will make your stay better the staff, nurses, chefs, and your peers are all there for you. Rather it is 30 days or a couple months this program is beyond awesome I feel like if it were not for the staff in this program I would not be successful. MR. Josh and the staff are very responsive to concerns and communication between there clients. This is a very blessed place dont wast time get better while you have the opportunity of a VERY AWSOME! Staff on your hands and don’t take advantage work the steps and you’ll find your way to peace🙏🏼 . Thank yall love all the staff and thank you Josh for the time and effort you put in for this facility to run efficiently and effectively!

Riverfront is a magical place. The staff is amazing and the setting is beautiful. They took care of all of the necessities to get me approved and admitted, and met me in the driveway with open arms as soon as I pulled in. I felt like they knew me and what I needed immediately. Their program is based on solid principles of recovery from addiction, as well as the mental health issues often accompanying such. They mix in depth group sessions, one on one therapy, and activities both on and off campus. It has been a long time since I have felt as healthy as I have after spending some time there. The staff also helped to prepare me for the next steps after discharge to help insure my continued progress. Everyone, from the owner to the maintenance guy, made me feel seen and important. At Riverfront you are not just a number or checkbox on a clipboard. They saw when I was doing well and they knew immediately when I wasn't. I felt like I was in loving and competent hands the entire time was there.
If you or someone you care about needs help, get in touch with Riverfront. They saved my life.

My experience at Riverfront recovery was nothing short of excellent! The staff there from the RA’s to the counselors, nurses and all the administrative staff even the maintenance guy all were amazing. The service was excellent. The cabins were clean. The chef JASON was amazing who kept us fed with excellent food and amazing snacks to hold us through during downtime. I would highly recommend Riverfront recovery to anybody seeking help with any kind of addiction, depression and anxiety. I feel amazing and 100% better than when I went in and my aftercare is already scheduled, Compliments of Riverfront recovery thank you so much for all you’ve done for me. I appreciate you more than words can say. God Bless you all for being so caring.

I’m the mother of a patient who attended this facility. While I didn’t stay here personally, I certainly appreciated all of my questions being answered from the first phone call I made right up until my child left, speaking with Josh the owner. I wanted my child to go somewhere that didn’t feel like a prison and this place definitely succeeded in that; from taking them to coffee shops, bowling and to the movies. To me that helps them still feel human and not isolated from the real world. Also, hearing about the meals every day made me jealous. I also appreciated that the staff took our child to church every Sunday! Just for the record, we drove 6 hours for our child to go here… that should speak volumes. I appreciate everything Josh does and continues to do at riverfront!

Facility Preview

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    Josh Foster

    Chief Executive Officer | Co - Founder

    Josh Foster’s journey to co-founding Riverfront Recovery Center began long before he entered the world of healthcare leadership. A former professional touring musician, Josh once found himself battling addiction and on the brink of losing everything. That’s when an organization called MusicCares stepped in—offering him a gift he’ll never forget: a chance at recovery.

    MusicCares helped place Josh in a treatment program that changed his life. After completing the program, he committed fully to his sobriety, and a year later, he accepted his first job in behavioral healthcare. He’s spent every day since repaying the opportunity he was once given—helping others find the hope and healing that saved his own life.

    Now a seasoned healthcare executive with 15 years of experience, Josh has led and founded national treatment organizations in roles ranging from Chief Operating Officer to Chief Marketing Officer. His expertise spans clinical operations, finance, marketing, and system design, but his purpose remains simple: to build recovery programs that truly transform lives.

    A graduate of American University’s Kogod School of Business, Josh is known for his people-first leadership style, operational precision, and unwavering dedication to improving behavioral health outcomes. He is a father, husband, and still plays music from time to time—grateful every day for the chance to give back what was once so freely given to him.

    Robert Crocker

    Co - Founder | Recovery Advocate

    Robert Crocker is a passionate leader, father, and person in long-term recovery who has dedicated the past decade to transforming lives through behavioral healthcare. As Co-Founder of Riverfront Recovery Center, Robert brings a mission-driven approach rooted in personal experience, deep industry knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to helping others heal.

    Over the last 10 years, Robert has founded multiple treatment centers and helped thousands of individuals find freedom from addiction. His leadership blends operational excellence with compassion, creating recovery programs that prioritize dignity, structure, and long-term success.

    Robert’s vision for Riverfront Recovery Center was born from his belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality, personalized care. His own journey through recovery continues to inform his work and inspire those around him—staff and clients alike.

    Kris Shock, LPC, CMAC

    Clinical Director | Addiction & Eating Disorder Specialist

    Kris Shock is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Masters Addiction Counselor with over 20 years of experience leading behavioral health programs and recovery communities. As Clinical Director at Riverfront Recovery Center, she oversees clinical operations, supervises multidisciplinary teams, and ensures regulatory compliance—all while championing ethical, patient-centered care.

    Kris’s background includes leadership roles at Walden Behavioral Care and Alana Recovery Center, where she shaped program strategy, led accreditations, and mentored clinical teams. In private practice, she specializes in treating adults with substance use and eating disorders using evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.

    She’s also the founder of SOAR, Inc. and The Phoenix House—Georgia’s first GARR-accredited transitional home for women recovering from eating disorders—and was named Counselor of the Year by the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association. Known for her compassion, clinical rigor, and advocacy, Kris is a trusted leader in behavioral healthcare. As an added bonus, she is an incredible baker!

    Brian Sheets

    Executive Director

    As Executive Director of Riverfront Recovery Center, Brian brings both professional experience and personal insight to the work of helping individuals overcome substance use disorders. As a person in long-term recovery, he understands firsthand the challenges and transformation that come with rebuilding a life free from addiction. Over the past decade, Brian has dedicated his career to the field of substance use disorder treatment, focusing on creating meaningful pathways to recovery and expanding access to compassionate, effective care.As a primary purpose, Brian brings to Riverfront a pathway to help clients discover a better way of life—one grounded in hope, accountability, and growth.  Through leadership rooted in empathy and lived experience, he strives to foster a culture of healing, resilience, and lasting change.

    Lisa Aiello, APRN, PMHNP - C

    Director of Nursing | Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Lisa Aiello is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in behavioral health, addiction medicine, and psychiatric care. As Director of Nursing, she combines clinical excellence with operational leadership, overseeing care across detox, residential, outpatient, and geriatric psychiatric programs.

    Lisa has led interdisciplinary teams, implemented evidence-based protocols, and improved outcomes in both clinical and executive roles—including CEO and CMO of a nonprofit detox center. She’s known for her trauma-informed, patient-first approach and has been recognized with multiple awards for clinical excellence and advocacy.

    A graduate of Mercer University, Maryville University, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Lisa is a respected voice in behavioral healthcare, particularly in supporting vulnerable and co-occurring populations.

    Sherry Lawson

    Lead Therapist

    Sherry Lawson brings a wealth of clinical expertise, leadership, and heart to Riverfront Recovery Center. With over a decade of experience spanning substance use treatment, co-occurring mental health counseling, and community-based care, Sherry is passionate about walking alongside individuals on their journey to healing.

    She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology with a cognate in Addiction and Recovery from Liberty University—where she graduated with highest honors and earned membership in Psi Chi, Tau Sigma, and Omega Nu Lambda Honor Societies.

    Sherry’s clinical background includes counseling a diverse client base ranging from young children to adults, conducting in-depth behavioral assessments, and developing personalized recovery plans. She’s served in roles including Executive Director, Admissions Director, and Substance Abuse Counselor—bringing both administrative insight and deep therapeutic experience to her work. From group therapy leadership to insurance navigation and intake coordination, Sherry has a proven track record of guiding clients through every step of the recovery process.

    Her work has also extended into the community, where she has built dementia caregiver support programs, led volunteer ministries, and served on the board of Feed the Need Ministry. She is a longtime member of the Licensed Professional Counselor Association of Georgia, the American Counseling Association, and the American Association of Christian Counselors, with certifications in both Psychology & Christianity and the Diagnosis & Treatment of Sex Addiction.

    At Riverfront Recovery Center, Sherry is proud to bring all of her experience, education, and compassion to a place that aligns with her mission: helping individuals rediscover purpose, restore relationships, and reclaim their lives.

    Kimberly Holloway, LPN

    Licensed Practical Nurse | Addiction Medicine Specialist

    Kimberly Holloway is a skilled Licensed Practical Nurse with over a decade of experience in addiction treatment, family medicine, rehabilitation, and clinical research. Known for her compassionate care and clinical precision, she currently serves as a lead LPN at Riverfront Recovery Center, where she oversees admissions, assessments, medication administration, and charge nurse duties.

    Her background includes roles at Gateway Health & Rehab, North Georgia Family Medicine, and RiverBirch Research Alliance, where she honed expertise in chronic disease management, clinical procedures, and research coordination. A graduate of North Georgia Technical College, Kimberly is respected for her calm leadership, work ethic, and commitment to patient-centered care—especially in behavioral health and recovery settings.

    Dr. Derek Klemm, DO, PharmD

    Medical Director

    Dr. Derek Klemm brings a rare dual credential in osteopathic medicine and pharmacy to his role as Medical Director at Riverfront Recovery Center. With a career rooted in both clinical excellence and community service, Dr. Klemm is passionate about expanding access to addiction treatment across underserved regions—particularly in the Appalachian communities he calls home.

    A graduate of the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy, Dr. Klemm completed his Family Medicine residency at Manatee Memorial Hospital. Since 2018, he has served as the lead physician at MedLink Habersham, a federally qualified health center (FQHC) in rural Northeast Georgia. There, he pioneered addiction treatment pathways and championed the integration of recovery services across the MedLink system. His efforts have included training other physicians to deliver compassionate, evidence-based addiction care.

    As a proud member of both the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) and the American Osteopathic Academy of Addiction Medicine (AOAAM), Dr. Klemm is deeply committed to elevating the standards of care for individuals battling substance use disorders. At Riverfront Recovery Center, he leads a team of medical staff in delivering safe, structured, and personalized recovery experiences with integrity at the forefront.

    Cooper DeNegre

    Director of Business Development | Recovery Advocate | Community Liaison

    Cooper DeNegre is a passionate behavioral health leader with a proven track record of launching and scaling substance abuse treatment programs across the Southeast. As Director of Business Development, Cooper plays a pivotal role in connecting individuals, families, and referral partners with life-changing care options.

    With deep experience in program development, Cooper has helped establish multiple treatment centers from the ground up—building strategic partnerships, navigating community needs, and expanding access to recovery resources. He works closely with local healthcare providers, employers, and advocacy groups to create sustainable pathways for individuals seeking long-term sobriety.

    Known for his hands-on approach and unwavering commitment to service, Cooper is a trusted resource in the recovery community. Whether he’s forging new partnerships or supporting a family in crisis, his focus remains the same: creating more opportunities for people to find hope and healing.

    Jason Boyer

    Head Chef

    Jason Boyer is a classically trained chef specializing in Italian and French cuisine, bringing more than two decades of culinary expertise and heart to the kitchen. After refining his craft in professional kitchens, Jason discovered his true calling—not only creating unforgettable meals, but using food as a pathway to purpose.

    A person in long-term recovery from drugs and alcohol, Jason has dedicated his life to helping others rebuild theirs. He believes the kitchen is a place of healing, confidence, and second chances. Whether he’s crafting a handmade pasta sauce or teaching knife skills to someone stepping into a new chapter, Jason pours intention and compassion into every moment. He regularly invites patients into the kitchen, guiding them through hands-on learning that strengthens both skill and self-worth.

    Beyond his work, Jason is a proud husband and father, and nothing brings him more joy than making pizza—his favorite food to create and share. For Jason, great cooking isn’t just about ingredients; it’s about connection, tradition, and offering people a seat at the table where they can begin again.