Shepherd Hill was created under the vision and direction of Dr. William Kennedy, a certified addictionologist and co-founder of Licking Memorial Hospital's Memorial Alcohol Rehabilitation Unit (MARU) Program. Dr. Kennedy's desire was to establish the first free-standing treatment center for substance use disorders (SUDs) in Licking County. By 1983, a Board was established and fundraising efforts had begun.
Shepherd Hill officially began treating patients in 1985 and became a department of Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) in 1992. Many positive changes have occurred during Shepherd Hill's association with LMH, including improved accessibility to care and expanded treatment services.
The vision of Shepherd Hill has evolved through the decades to maintain state-of-the-art treatment programming, which utilizes the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria. Patients are evaluated upon admission to determine the level of treatment needed and are reassessed weekly to ensure the most appropriate level of care. Treatment programs offered include Detoxification, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Aftercare. Psychiatric services are also offered and include inpatient and outpatient medication management and counseling.
Shepherd Hill's goals for the future remain consistent with Dr. Kennedy's vision to provide quality treatment for all SUDs to the residents of Licking County and beyond, as well as Licking Memorial Health Systems' mission to improve the health of the community. Shepherd Hill continues to strive for new ways to reach those struggling with SUDs and to provide the knowledge, education, and skills necessary to live a life of sobriety.