River’s Bend Milestones: A Legacy of Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care in Metro Detroit
Since opening its doors in 1995, River’s Bend has hit many milestones and has grown from a small outpatient behavioral Since 1995, River’s Bend PC has grown from a small outpatient clinic into a regional leader in mental health and substance use disorder treatment in Metro Detroit. Through compassionate care, clinical innovation, and evidence-based programming, we’ve become a trusted provider across Oakland County, Macomb County, and Southeast Michigan.
Here’s how River’s Bend evolved into one of the area’s most respected IOP and PHP behavioral health providers.
1995–2006: Building a Foundation in Outpatient Behavioral Health
River’s Bend opened in 1995 with a clear mission: to provide clinically rigorous, client-centered outpatient mental health and addiction treatment in Metro Detroit.
By 1998, Stephanie Howey joined the team, helping establish a culture rooted in collaboration, professional growth, and personalized care. Her leadership laid the groundwork for internal development and long-term clinical excellence.
In 2000, Bruce Goldberg expanded services by launching our Substance Use Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), offering structured recovery support for individuals seeking outpatient addiction treatment in Oakland County.
2007–2016: Expanding Access to Integrated Care
In 2007, River’s Bend entered a new chapter when Bruce Goldberg and Stephanie Howey became owners. At that time, the clinic had four therapists and a primary focus on substance use treatment. However, community demand quickly revealed the need for integrated mental health and co-occurring disorder services.
By 2009, River’s Bend became an approved provider for Michigan’s Health Professional Recovery Program (HPRP), delivering structured, evidence-based outpatient care to licensed professionals navigating recovery.
This period marked our transition into a comprehensive behavioral health provider serving Metro Detroit.
2017–2023: Responding to the Opioid Crisis & Post-Pandemic Mental Health Needs
As the opioid epidemic intensified, River’s Bend strengthened partnerships with hospitals, physicians, and community providers to create rapid referral systems and coordinated step-down care.
Following the pandemic, demand for higher levels of care surged. In response, we launched:
- A Mental Health Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for depression, anxiety, and trauma
- A reopened Adolescent IOP in West Bloomfield
- A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for clients requiring stabilization without inpatient hospitalization
In 2023, we expanded further by opening our West Bloomfield behavioral health clinic, increasing access to structured group therapy and specialty programming throughout Oakland County.
2023–2025: Specialized IOP Tracks for Diverse Clinical Needs
To meet growing demand, River’s Bend introduced 15+ specialized IOP tracks, including programming tailored to:
- Trauma survivors
- Adolescents and teens
- Working professionals
- Women and men’s groups
- LGBTQIA+ individuals
- Clients with co-occurring substance use disorders
In 2025, we launched a dedicated First Responder IOP, providing trauma-informed care for police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and frontline professionals experiencing occupational stress and secondary trauma.
This expansion strengthened our position as a leader in specialized outpatient mental health and addiction treatment in Southeast Michigan.
2026 and Beyond: Advancing Trauma-Informed Treatment
Looking ahead, River’s Bend continues investing in clinical excellence. In 2026, we are expanding advanced trauma training, including broader clinician certification in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
By integrating cutting-edge trauma therapies into our IOP and PHP programs, we remain committed to delivering evidence-based, outcomes-driven care across Metro Detroit.
Why River’s Bend Matters in Southeast Michigan
River’s Bend has not simply grown—we have continuously adapted to meet the evolving behavioral health needs of our community.
Our legacy reflects:
- Integrated treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders
- Accessible IOP and PHP programs in Troy and West Bloomfield
- Strong partnerships with hospitals, therapists, and referral networks
- A belief that healing requires structure, compassion, and evidence-based care
Whether you are a healthcare professional seeking a trusted referral partner, a parent looking for adolescent mental health support, or an individual ready to begin recovery, River’s Bend is here to guide you.
Contact our care team today to get started with confidential, compassionate support in Metro Detroit.
