AMFM (A Mission for Michael): Reviews, Insurance, Locations

Is AMFM the right fit for you?

AMFM offers structured residential care for adults with primary mental health needs, including co-occurring substance use. Treatment is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and individualized based on clinical needs, with medication management when appropriate and regular progress tracking.

AMFM may be a good fit if you…

• Need a higher level of care than weekly outpatient therapy can provide
• Are seeking residential treatment for a primary mental health condition (AMFM commonly treats mood and thought disorders, including major depression, bipolar I, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder)
• Are also managing secondary concerns like trauma/PTSD, anxiety, or personality-related symptoms (when clinically appropriate)
• Do better in a small, calm, home-like setting rather than a large hospital unit
• Want evidence-based care (therapy + medication management when appropriate) with outcomes tracked over time
• Value family involvement 
• Want a clear step-down pathway from residential into outpatient levels of care

AMFM may not be a good fit if you…

• Need acute inpatient or hospital-level care (e.g., medical detox or imminent suicide risk that requires a locked/inpatient setting)
• Are looking for a substance-use–only program without a strong primary mental health focus
• Need a program primarily for autism spectrum disorder, a primary eating disorder, or another condition best served by a specialty provider
• Prefer a luxury/resort-style experience over a clinically driven program
• Want minimal structure or a mostly self-directed program
• Aren’t open to therapy, medication management, or family participation (when clinically appropriate)
• Need care in a state where AMFM doesn’t currently operate

AMFM Reviews

Across AMFM locations, over 240 Google reviews average about 4.35 out of 5 stars. Clients most often describe AMFM as a caring, relationship-driven program with strong clinical support and a home-like setting. While many report meaningful progress and feeling genuinely supported, some reviews raise concerns about communication, consistency, and medication management.

• Staff & Care Experience (80% positive): Many clients and families emphasize compassionate, attentive staff who take time to listen, build trust, and offer steady encouragement throughout treatment. 
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (75% positive): Reviews frequently note meaningful emotional growth, improved coping skills, and long-term stability when clients engage fully in the program. Some clients report life-changing outcomes, while others express concerns about clinical consistency or fit. 
• Facility & Environment (70% positive): The residential setting is often described as welcoming, peaceful, and comfortable, with several reviewers highlighting the homes, outdoor spaces, and meals. A smaller number mention upkeep or cleanliness issues at specific locations.
• Access & Process (60% positive): Admissions and outreach teams are commonly praised for responsiveness and guidance, especially during referrals and transitions. However, some families report challenges with communication, discharge planning, or administrative follow-through.
• Support & Community (75% positive): Many reviews reflect a strong sense of connection among peers and staff, with group settings and shared experiences helping clients feel less alone. Family involvement and coordination of aftercare are noted as strengths, though not consistently across all experiences.

How Much Does AMFM Cost?

Your cost depends on your insurance benefits, level of care, and length of treatment. AMFM is in network with many major insurers (varies by location). Most people pay far less than the posted “sticker price” once insurance or financial assistance is applied.

Call your plan and the facility to confirm in-network status and any prior authorization, and request a written estimate before admission. If you’re paying out of pocket, self-pay, sliding-scale fees, and payment assistance are available.

Additional details

Medical Leadership

AMFM’s medical leadership team guides clinical standards and treatment quality across all locations to provide evidence-based and tailored care.

Dr. William Dodge, MD-MMM, FACEP, FAAEM

Chief Medical Officer (National)

Emergency physician and clinical leader with USC training in medical management; oversees AMFM’s medical standards and multidisciplinary care across programs.

Dr. Geoffrey Phillips, ABPN

Psychiatrist (National)

Board-certified psychiatrist with Beck Institute training in cognitive therapy; blends medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy and has led inpatient programs, including at the Long Beach VA.

Dr. Meghan Marcum

Chief Psychologist (National)

Leads AMFM’s psychology services; specializes in trauma treatment (EMDR) and co-occurring disorders, ensuring consistent, high-quality clinical practice across sites.

Anand Mehta, LMFT

Executive Director (San Diego Region)

Anand Mehta is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and recognized leader in mental health care, currently serving as Executive Director of AMFM Healthcare’s San Diego region.