ARTS, short for Addiction Research and Treatment Services, is part of the University of Colorado’s Department of Psychiatry and has provided mental health and addiction care across Colorado for several decades. The organization focuses on integrating clinical research, education, and evidence-based treatment to address substance use disorders and support long-term recovery for adults seeking
outpatient care.
The Adult Outpatient program delivers a full range of addiction treatment options for adults, including medication-assisted treatment (
MAT) using methadone, buprenorphine, Vivitrol, Antabuse, and naltrexone. They offer outpatient,
intensive outpatient (IOP), and aftercare services supported by therapies such as
cognitive behavioral therapy (
CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing (MI), and family counseling. Their services support adults ages 18 and older, with specialized care available for women, individuals living with HIV, and those involved in the criminal justice system.
The Adult Outpatient clinics accept Medicaid, some Medicare plans, and private insurance, offering sliding scale payment options when necessary. With multiple Denver-area clinic locations, including Parkside, Westside, and Potomac Street, the program provides accessible care during early weekday hours and limited Saturday availability, ensuring timely intake and ongoing support throughout recovery.
Evidence-Based Context: According to SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2023), approximately 48.7 million Americans aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in the past year. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) emphasizes that treatment programs combining behavioral therapy with medication-assisted approaches show the highest rates of sustained recovery. Facilities like ARTS Adult Outpatient Treatment Westside Center for Change provide structured pathways to evidence-based care.
Sources: SAMHSA NSDUH 2023, NIDA Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment (4th Ed.)