Have questions about treatment, admissions, or how we work?

Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive from individuals, families, and community partners.

Getting Started

How do I get help for drug or alcohol addiction in Washington, DC?

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you can start by contacting Federal City Recovery Services directly. Call us, email us, complete our online contact form, or walk into any of our locations during business hours. Our team will guide you through a confidential assessment and help determine the best treatment plan based on your needs. We offer immediate support and can often schedule same-day or next-day intake appointments.

What should I expect during the admissions process?

The admissions process begins with a confidential assessment—either over the phone or in person. We’ll ask about substance use history, mental health, medical conditions, housing status, and other relevant factors. From there, we create a customized, person-centered treatment plan and help with scheduling intake. Our goal is to make the process as clear, compassionate, and fast as possible.

Services and Programs

What types of substances do you treat?

Federal City Recovery Services provides evidence-based treatment for a wide range of substance use disorders, including:

• Alcohol – beer, wine, liquor; commonly used alongside other substances

• Opioids – heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone (Oxy), hydrocodone (Vicodin), Percocet (Percs), morphine; street names include “dope,” “smack,” “blue tops”

• Stimulants – cocaine (Coke, Blow), crack cocaine (Rock), methamphetamine (Meth, Crystal, Ice), prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin (8-balls)

• Cannabis – marijuana, weed, pot, loud, edibles, THC wax or dabs

• Inhalants – Poppers, glue, paint thinner, spray paint, whipped cream chargers (Whippets), aerosols used for huffing

• Benzodiazepines – Xanax (Bars), Klonopin, Valium, Ativan; often misused to manage withdrawal or combined with other drugs

• Hallucinogens – PCP, dippers, boat/loveboat, wet, “butt naked”

• Synthetic drugs – K2, Spice, bath salts, Flakka, counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl

• Polysubstance use – using multiple substances in combination or sequence, which increases overdose risk and complicates treatment

Each treatment plan is person-centered and based on the individual’s substance use history, mental health needs, and recovery goals.

What ages do you serve?

Federal City Recovery Services provides treatment for:

• Adolescents (ages 16–17)

• Young adults (ages 18–21)

• Adults (ages 21 and older)

Does Federal City Recovery Services offer inpatient or outpatient treatment?

Federal City Recovery Services provides both inpatient (residential) and outpatient treatment options for substance use disorder and related mental health disorders. Inpatient programs offer 24/7 structured care, while outpatient services provide flexible scheduling for individuals who live at home or in transitional housing. Our care team will work with you to determine the most appropriate level of care based on your situation.

Do you treat people with both addiction and mental health issues?

Federal City Recovery Services specializes in co-occurring disorder treatment, also known as dual diagnosis care. Many individuals struggling with addiction also experience conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. We treat both the substance use disorder and the related mental health condition simultaneously—because lasting recovery depends on healing the whole person.

What kinds of mental health conditions do you treat?

Federal City Recovery Services provides integrated treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions related to substance use disorder, including:

• Anxiety disorders

• Depression

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Bipolar disorder

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Eating and feeding disorders

• Substance-induced psychosis

Our approach is trauma-informed and designed to support people living with co-occurring substance use and mental health challenges.

What therapies or treatment approaches do you use?

Federal City Recovery Services uses a range of evidence-based treatment methods tailored to each client’s needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), individual and group counseling, trauma-informed therapy, family-based support, and recreational or expressive therapies. Our goal is to support lasting recovery through proven approaches that promote healing, insight, and personal growth.

How long does treatment typically last?

The length of treatment depends on the level of care and individual progress. Detox may last several days, while residential treatment typically ranges from 30 to 60 days. Outpatient programs vary based on need—some may continue for several months with flexible scheduling. We work with each client to create a timeline that supports long-term recovery and personal stability.

What happens after treatment ends? Do you offer aftercare or continued support?

Federal City Recovery Services provides structured aftercare planning for every client. This may include ongoing outpatient therapy, recovery support services, referrals to sober living or community programs, and access to local support groups. Our goal is to help individuals stay connected, supported, and accountable as they move forward in recovery.

What is a typical day like in your residential program?

In our residential program, clients follow a structured daily routine that supports physical, emotional, and psychological healing. A typical day includes individual and group therapy sessions, life skills training, meals, recreational activities, rest periods, and peer support. The environment is stable, supportive, and designed to promote recovery and personal accountability.

Access and Accommodations

Is your treatment center in Washington, DC?

Federal City Recovery Services operates multiple licensed facilities throughout Washington, DC, offering accessible and community-based care. We are proud to serve individuals and families from across the District. Contact us to find the location closest to you.

Are your facilities wheelchair accessible and compliant with disability access standards?

Federal City Recovery Services has facilities that are ADA-compliant and accessible to individuals with physical disabilities. We are also able to accommodate clients with sensory impairments (blind or deaf/hard-of-hearing), and we encourage prospective clients to contact us in advance with any specific accessibility needs.

Do you serve non-native English-speaking individuals or people who speak English as a second language (ESL)?

Federal City Recovery Services welcomes clients whose primary language is not English. We provide language access through bilingual staff, interpreter services, and translated materials when available. Our goal is to ensure every client can fully understand their treatment options and participate in their recovery with confidence and support.

If you or a loved one needs services in a language other than English, please let us know during your initial contact so we can make the appropriate arrangements.

Is your program LGBTQ+ friendly?

Federal City Recovery Services is committed to creating a safe, affirming, and respectful environment for all individuals. Our team receives evidence-based training in trauma-informed practices that support all people throughout their recovery journey.

Costs, Coverage, and Legal Referrals

How much does treatment cost, and do you accept insurance?

Federal City Recovery Services accepts DC Medicaid and Medicare. If you don’t have insurance and are a DC resident, we offer assistance with applying for benefits or exploring local funding programs or public health resources. At this time, we do not accept commercial or private insurance. Contact us, and our admissions team will help you verify your coverage and discuss your options confidentially.

Do you offer free or low-cost addiction treatment?

Federal City Recovery Services accepts Medicaid and Medicare, with no out-of-pocket cost to the client. We also assist uninsured DC residents in exploring local funding programs or public health resources. Don’t let cost be a barrier—reach out and we’ll help you explore your options.

Do you offer treatment to Court-referred clients, ex-offenders, and returning citizens?

Federal City Recovery Services works with individuals referred and assessed by the criminal justice system for court-ordered treatment, including drug court, probation, parole, and diversion programs. We provide documentation, progress reports, and direct communication with court officers as needed. Our programs meet all applicable local standards of care regulated by the DC Government (DCMR Chapter 63, Title 22a).

Medical Services and Crisis Care

Do you offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Federal City Recovery Services offers Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) as part of our integrated care model. MAT may include medications such as Suboxone (buprenorphine) or naltrexone, in combination with counseling and peer support. This approach is evidence-based and effective in supporting recovery from opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Do you help with opioid or alcohol overdose emergencies?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately. For non-emergency overdose support, naloxone access, or crisis referrals, you can contact us directly or call the 24/7 DC Department of Behavioral Health Helpline at 1-888-793-4357. We can help you connect with safe, immediate care and recovery planning.

Community and Collaboration

Can I get help for a loved one who needs treatment?

Federal City Recovery Services frequently works with family members, friends, and guardians who are concerned about a loved one’s substance use or related mental health disorder. You can contact us to discuss your situation, ask questions, and explore treatment options. We can also assist with intervention planning and referrals if needed.

Do you work with community providers, shelters, or hospitals?

Federal City Recovery Services partners with hospitals, behavioral health agencies, shelters, housing programs, and other community-based organizations. If you’re a provider looking to refer a client to treatment, our intake team can coordinate care quickly and efficiently. We welcome collaboration and prioritize continuity of care.

Licensing and Credentials

Is Federal City Recovery Services accredited or licensed?

Federal City Recovery Services is fully licensed to operate in Washington, DC, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This means our programs meet rigorous national standards for quality, safety, and person-centered care. Accreditation ensures that we provide evidence-based treatment in a supportive and accountable environment. We are also certified by the DC Department of Behavioral Health and the DC Department of Health Care Finance.