Starting a Treatment or Recovery Program

How can I start a treatment/recovery program in my community?

1. Do some research to find out if a treatment program is needed in your community.

2. You can't do it alone. Build relationships and partnerships with the police, other treatment providers, the business community, and so on.

3. Call your state alcohol and drug agency to learn about you local rules and regulations for starting an addiction treatment program.

4. Contact your local State Alcohol and Drug Agency for information on how to get your program approved as a certified addiction treatment facility. Also make sure your counselors are certified: (a) through the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC) as a substance abuse professional (SAP), (b) as an Alcohol Counselor through a state-run program, or, (c) if they are a physician, through the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

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What should I do if I receive local opposition?

Although most people are aware of the negative effects of addiction, there is often local resistance when trying to set up a new addiction treatment program within a community. This situation is commonly referred to as "Not In My Backyard" or NIMBY syndrome. Community resistance to the opening or expansion of addiction treatment centers is unfounded because new treatment programs pose no danger to the health or welfare of people living in the community, nor do they attract addicts or dealers to the area. However, NIMBY syndrome can delay or even prevent the opening of treatment programs.

You can challenge and overcome community opposition if you have information and good advice. For detailed information on zoning requirements, Federal law and protections, finding allies in the community, calming neighbors' fears, and coping with local opposition, read SAMHSA's Treatment Improvement Exchange (TIE), Technical Assistance Publications (TAPs) # 14.

In addition, get legal advice from an attorney who can help you interpret your local laws.

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What are the components of a good treatment and recovery program?

Effective addiction treatment programs should include:

• a system of screening to identify people at the early stages of their condition,
• a system of care that is adaptable to individuals and their unique situation,
• a system of monitoring and aftercare that provides on-going disease management, and
• a process of continuous feedback and improvement of the program.

For more information on how to set up an effective drug treatment program, visit the Join Together Action Kit for Improving the Quality of Treatment and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment, A Research-Based Guide.

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