In recent months, Pine Rest has received multiple reports of attempts to deceive individuals who use online/mobile search engines to find Pine Rest’s contact information. Third-party organizations, using carefully crafted language to present themselves as affiliates of Pine Rest, appear near the top of search results and fraudulently claim they can assist individuals with placement in our services.
Community members who reach out to these sources are often falsely told there are no services currently available in the local area. Some individuals have been redirected to receive mental health care at non-Pine Rest locations across the country and directed to travel to or from these sites at their own personal expense.
This threat is particularly alarming not only because it redirects those we serve – many of whom have turned to Pine Rest throughout their lives – away from our organization but, more importantly, because it preys upon the vulnerability of community members and their loved ones who are in need of care and resources. This costs them valuable time and money, removes the stability of support networks nearby, and deprives them of the world-class care they sought to find here in West Michigan.
Pine Rest is cooperating with law enforcement, including the Michigan Attorney General’s office, in their investigation into this matter.
All contact information for our services can be found on our website, www.pinerest.org.
Individuals seeking mental health and/or addiction services may also reach us by phone:
FOR IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE 24/7: 616.455.5000 or toll-free at 800.678.5500
FOR OUTPATIENT ASSISTANCE & ADDICTION SERVICES (Standard Business Hours): 866.852.4001
