If you have questions about drugs or want advice and support to live a drug-free life, you don’t have to look far. Prevention and treatment resources are available throughout the city.
The staff at each prevention center works in your community to provide drug education. Prevention centers also help youth and families take action to avoid drug use at home and in neighborhoods throughout the city.
For those seeking treatment, DC has resources available to help through the Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment Expansion Program (ASTEP) and for adults through the Assesment Referral Center (ARC). A provider will help you determine the services and treatment you need. For youth and adults looking for treatment, keep the following in mind:
- Anything discussed in treatment is strictly confidential!
- Youth under the age of 21 can get help from any youth treatment provider.
- Adults over the age of 21 can get help from adult treatment providers under the ASTEP program.
- Youth and adults must bring proof of DC residency, like a DC-issued ID or driver’s license. Contact your provider for questions about residency.
- All youth providers accept DC Medicaid, and some accept private insurance.
- No DC resident will be denied treatment based on inability to pay.
