Substance Use Disorder Programs

Substance use disorder programs, such as our Addiction Corrections Treatment (ACT) and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs, in addition to Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the court-mandated Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP), provide individuals with tools to overcome addiction. They address not just the physical dependency but also the psychological and behavioral aspects. These programs often include counseling, therapy, and support groups, helping individuals understand the root causes of their addiction and how to develop coping strategies for life after incarceration.

ADDICTIONS CORRECTIONS TREATMENT PROGRAM

The ACT program offers 37 weeks (around 8 and a half months) of substance use treatment to both men and women who have been identified as having a substance use disorder. Admission and continued participation in the ACT program are court mandated for some inmates and optional for others. Continued stay depends on the participant’s motivation and commitment to recovery.

ALCHOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (AA)

Inmates can talk about their addictions with fellow inmates facing similar addictions in a nonjudgmental and nurturing environment. Group leaders are volunteers who have themselves faced addictions in the past. Groups are offered weekly throughout the facility.

EARLY DIVSERSION/ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING

DHS staff work with clients and their assigned attorneys to identify treatment alternatives to incarceration. Screening techniques are implemented at a variety of junctures throughout the clients stay at the Arlington County Detention Facility. Once identified, DHS staff assess and identify clients who meet the criteria for a Substance Use Disorder. DHS staff will complete referrals for appropriate levels of care, in accordance with the ASAM, and provide a letter for the courts review.

MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT PROGRAM

Our MAT therapists at the Arlington County Detention Facility work to identify clients who report substance use via the initial housing assessment, booking questionnaire, and the urine drug screens completed upon commitment to the facility. The therapists conduct weekly sessions with individuals, offering continuous support and incorporate medication assistance to combat addiction while in custody and by distributing Narcan (naloxone) and fentanyl test strips upon release. We also offer reentry services upon departure to ensure the best transition back into the community.

Captain Laureano Assistant, Director of Inmate Services: Rlaureano@arlingtonva.us

Phone: 703-228-7278