Help for Addiction

People with addictions often cannot quit on their own. Addiction is an illness that requires treatment. Treatment may include counseling, behavioral therapies, self-help groups or medical treatment.  Addiction may be in the form of drug addiction, alcohol dependency or sexual dependency/addiction.  The following are organizations that provide a starting point for those with addiction issues:

Al Anon (and Al Ateen for younger members)
877-339-8350 Toll-free
703-534-HELP or 703-534-4357 No. VA (M,T,W,Th,F 8:00 am - 6:00 pm ET)
Al Anon Email

Virginia Email

A worldwide organization offering a self-help recovery program for families and friends of alcoholics whether or not the alcoholic seeks help or even recognizes the existence of a drinking problem.
Al-Anon Website

Alcoholics Anonymous
800-208-8649 Toll-free
703-293-9753 Northern Virginia

A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.  AA's primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
Alcoholics Anonymous Website
Northern Virginia Intergroup Website

Cocaine Anonymous
310-559-5833 Cocaine Anonymous World Service
301-368-9202 DC/MD/VA Chapter
202-368-0476 Alternate Number

A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strengths and hopes with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from their addiction. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using cocaine and all other mind-altering substances. Provides information and referrals for local Cocaine Anonymous meetings.
Cocaine Anonymous Website

Gamblers Anonymous
301-961-1313 Hotline (Answering Service)

A fellowship of people who provide mutual support and help others in overcoming compulsive gambling problems. Uses a 12-step recovery program patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous. There are no dues or fees. Preserves anonymity. Also sponsors Gam Anon, a recovery program for family members.
Gamblers Anonymous Website

Narcotics Anonymous
800-543-4670 Toll-free VA/DC/MD
202-399-5316 Helpline

Operates self-help groups for men and women for whom drugs have become a problem.  Meetings are held regularly for recovering addicts to help them stay off of all drugs.  The only requirement for membership is the desire to stop using drugs.  Meeting times and places vary.  Visit the website or call for more information.
Narcotics Anonymous Website

Pride Institute
800-54-PRIDE or 800-547-7433 (24/7)


Chemical dependency/mental health referral and information hotline geared for the gay, lesbian, and transgender communities.
Pride Institute Website

Sex Addicts Anonymous
800-477-8191 (M,T,W,Th,F 11:00 am - 7:00 pm ET)
Voice Mail is available 24/7
Sex Addicts Anonymous Email

A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strengths and hopes with each other to overcome their sexual addictions and help others recover from sexual addiction or dependency.
Sex Addicts Anonymous Website

Sexual Compulsives Anonymous
800-977-HEAL or 800-977-4325
202-736-3736 DC Metro Area

A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strengths and hopes with each other, that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from sexual compulsion.  The only requirement for membership is to have a desire to stop having compulsive sex.
Sexual Compulsives Anonymous Website
Sexual Compulsives Anonymous DC Website