Ascend Collinsville – Cannabis Dispensary in Collinsville, Illinois

So, let's talk about visiting a cannabis dispensary in Collinsville based on what people have been saying. It sounds like the experience can be really different depending on who you interact with and maybe even what day you go. One person shared their experience as a first time medical patient, noting it was great *once* they got past the reception area where the man setting up their account acted like they were the biggest inconvenience possible. He was apparently very rude and probably could use some training with customer service because, as they put it, there really was no need to be so rude. But, shoutout to the ladies in the back though, they were appreciated. Danielle is amazing, according to one reviewer. Another visitor described their very first time going to a dispensary *ever* to buy weed. They didn't know much but were curious and eager, though strangely scared and awkward about it. When they entered, there was a guy/guide who asked if they'd been there before, and when they said no, he proceeded with explaining how one would buy. Apparently, there's a terminal like a large iPad/monitor where you shop for what you want. They were surprised to know there are so many categories (stick, buds, edibles etc.) and varieties. Each item has a description like flavor profiles and chemical content percentages and stuff. You then check out, and then like at a pharmacy, you get called when it is ready. It's not FDA approved and so it’s cash only. Credit cards cannot be used to pay. This person even felt adrenaline just having to go through this buying experience, saying "yeah I’m square hahah". This sounds like the setup at the Ascend cannabis dispensary in Collinsville. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for everyone. One reviewer was really frustrated because they don't have THCV flower anymore, stating it was the only Cannabis that helped them. They didn't want the THCV gummies or drink mix, just the flower. They finally got a medical card 6 months ago, and then the dispensary stopped having it in stock. They requested it at the call center and went in to request it, but still nothing. They questioned what the point of spending money on an expensive medical card was if they don't have the specific cannabis that actually helps them. They've tried multiple different strains of THC but nothing helps, and they don't wanna get HIGH anymore. They actually want the benefits of THCV – non-psychoactive, enhances brain function, better in anti-inflammatory/ wound healing, and they don't get the munchies. THCV was described as the best marijuana they'd ever had. They lost their business there because of this. Someone else had a really uncomfortable first-time experience too. They came in for their dad's birthday to get him a gift from there, mind you they had never been nor did they smoke, so they were already in an environment they didn’t understand. They finally figured out how to open the door and made it known to the guy beforehand that they had no idea how to do this. He told them to ask for help. Unfortunately, they went to the wrong person as they were waiting in line and went next, thinking it was okay because no one informed them how the lines worked. They stepped up to a lady with glasses and a visor. Instantly she acted panicked and rude, saying "maam i need you to step back in line i treat medical first". This person immediately felt more uncomfortable for how snappy she was about it. They told her they were new here and stepped back, but even though they had said that, she didn't seem to care as she repeated herself again. Unfortunately, they stood there more confused as everyone seemed to giggle at them. Fortunately, the savior himself came from the back and noticed how lost they were, and honestly they didn't even know how to leave or they would have. But thanks to the man with the long hair, they got their dad his gift. Having anxiety with new places already, they definitely will not be coming back. They don't smoke anyways, but next time they'll make their time somewhere more welcoming. On the positive side for staff, Lisa is a gem, so sweet! The women at the front desk are very welcoming and friendly. One person shared it was their first time in and Jonathan B helped them find what they needed. He listened to what they wanted and gave them recommendations which ended up being great products. They felt he gave great customer service and seemed eager to help, and will be back for all their medical marijuana needs. Danielle was also mentioned again as a huge help selecting purchases and having great advice! However, there are some serious complaints. One person claimed they scam you, short you weight, and not give you items you pay for. They also said the dispensary won’t credit said amount to your account, instead wanting you to drive 20-30 minutes for said $3 item, calling it absolutely horrendous customer service. They planned on taking their frequent business to other shops. Another reviewer stated they will not be back, having had an issue happen twice in the last two weeks with leaked terpenes. The first time they replaced it, but then they only gave them $5 the second time. This person felt this place does not care about the quality of products given to the customers. The manager reportedly said that the liquid terpenes were easily retrievable. This customer also sent a video of how dried out the product was and felt disrespected as a medical patient. One review specifically pointed to a change in management, saying it looks like a lot of people have been dissatisfied since this Jennifer took over. They felt she must not be good for business. This person has since gotten wonderful care at Ivy Hall and Beyond Hello in Sauget and said they will travel anywhere to avoid this awful dispensary. Finally, one comment raised skepticism about some of the positive feedback, suggesting the positive reviews are because they’ll give you points for a 5 star review and people want the discount. So, visiting this cannabis dispensary in Illinois, whether you're looking for recreational cannabis in Collinsville or have a medical card, it seems like experiences can vary wildly, from finding amazing, helpful staff to encountering rudeness, product issues, and poor customer service.