As the holidays approach, the Colorado River Indian Tribes Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) wants community members to know there is a place to turn when things get difficult. Throughout our interview, staff kept coming back to the same message: they are here to help, and they want people to reach out.
The holidays can bring people together, but staff understand that this time of year can also be tough. For someone struggling with alcohol or substance use, or working to maintain recovery, having support can matter. ASAP staff emphasized that they have tools and guidance to help people work through those challenges. If you are unsure where to begin, a conversation with their office can be a starting point.
Connecting with ASAP can also happen through its community events. The department has been active in bringing people together, and staff shared that there are more events to come. They encourage Tribal Members to watch for opportunities to participate, get to know the team and learn about the resources available. Follow CRIT ASAP on Facebook for upcoming events and program updates, or give the office a call to find out what is coming next.
That community involvement carries the same message as their work in the office: support is here throughout the year. Staff want Tribal Members to feel encouraged to ask questions and seek help when they need it.
Part of CRIT’s Department of Health and Social Services, ASAP provides culturally sensitive substance use treatment. Its outpatient services include individual counseling for adults and youth, an Intensive Outpatient Program, DUI services, and evaluations and assessments. Peer support, relapse prevention and aftercare provide continued assistance during recovery. Transportation, residential treatment coordination and support groups to detention facilities are also available.
Behind those services is a team that includes licensed counselors through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners Merle Johnson, Shannon Johnson and Stephanie Lopez (Acting ASAP Manager); Crisis Counselor and Case Manager Monica Guzman; Certified Peer Support Specialist Lydia Stevens; Administrative Assistant Lisa Williams; and Secretary Talyia Carter.
ASAP serves CRIT Tribal Members and other eligible American Indians and Alaska Natives. Anyone interested in receiving services can contact the office to ask about eligibility, appointments and what to bring for a first consultation.
The office is located at 13378 First Avenue in Parker and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed from noon to 1 p.m. Call 928-669-5243 to learn more.
Additional support numbers listed in the program’s outreach materials include the Tribal Warm Line at 1-855-728-8630 and the Statewide Crisis Line at 1-844-534-4673.
Whether you are looking for help, have questions about recovery or want to join an upcoming community event, ASAP encourages you to connect. Their message to Tribal Members is simple: you do not have to figure everything out before reaching out. Their team is here to help you find a place to begin.