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Frequently Asked Questions

Collectively, the staff at OASAS respond to hundreds of questions in any given week.
Here we respond to those most Frequently Asked Questions.

  1. Q. If I need help for me or someone I know with a chemical dependence problem, where do I go?

    A. If you need help finding a chemical dependence prevention or treatment program, call the toll free helpline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369). Operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. [More helpful information]
  2. Q. If I need help for me or someone I know with a gambling problem, where do I go?

    A. If you need help finding a problem gambling prevention or treatment program, call the toll free helpline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369). Operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. [More helpful information]
  3. Q. How do I start a chemical dependence treatment program?

    A. Initial contact should be made with the OASAS Field Office that serves the county you are interested in providing services. [OASAS Field Office Directory]
  4. Q. If an individual has been mandated by the court to attend an OASAS certified program for an education program or an alcohol or drug screening and assessment, where do I go?

    A. If you need help finding an OASAS certified program, call toll free within NYScall the toll free helpline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369). You can also conduct a search of our directory of certified treatment providers for a program in your community. [Search for a Treatment Provider]
  5. Q. How do I find out about AA or other self help groups or meetings in my community?

    A. There are a variety of self help groups for you choose from depending on your specific needs. Many of these groups are listed in your local phone book.
  6. Q. How can I become a certified addictions professional.

    A. OASAS issues professional credentials to individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements and pass appropriate examinations. These credentials include: Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC), Credentialed Prevention Professional (CPP) and Credentialed Prevention Specialist (CPS). More detailed information about how to become a certified addictions professional is available from the credentialing section of our website. [OASAS Credentialing]
  7. Q. What can patients do if they have a complaint about their treatment program?

    A. OASAS provides patient advocacy services for patients in a chemical dependence treatment program to address questions, concerns or grievances of patients or staff members about standards and procedures. We will attempt to resolve the matter as quickly and fairly as possible. Call toll free: 1-800-553-5790. [More information about patient advocacy]
  8. Q. Who do I contact if I know a counselor who has relapsed or is having other problems in the workplace?

    A. An initial referral to the Counselor Assistance Program (CAP) is recommended. A CAP professional will help evaluate the situation to determine appropriate follow up. Call CAP toll free at 1-800-481-4645 or email cap@oasas.state.ny.us. [More information about CAP]

If you are seeking specific advice or counseling, you should contact a licensed practitioner or a qualified health professional, a social services agency representative, or an organization in your local community.