We’ve Rebranded!

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Washington State was a national leader in establishing drug courts. Drug Courts first began operating in Washington State in 1994, (King County.) The Washington State Association of Drug Court Professionals (WSADCP), a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit corporation, was formed in 1995. This was followed shortly by formation of the Washington Association of Drug Courts (WADC), a 501(c)(6) nonprofit corporation (which allows expenditures for lobbying.) Drug Courts proved to be amazingly successful and, over time, other successful problem solving court models were adopted throughout the State. Mental Health Courts, Family Treatment Courts, Re-entry Courts are a few examples of such other new approaches. These are generally known as therapeutic courts. As of January, 2026, WSADCP is doing business as “Therapeutic Courts Association of Washington (TCA of WA)” in recognition of the many therapeutic modalities now in successful operation throughout Washington State.”

The three associations are served by the same Board of Directors and are committed to providing education and advocacy for therapeutic courts across the state. Therapeutic courts provide an innovative approach to justice – linking the courts, treatment providers, and other community services to provide support and accountability for individuals with substance use or mental health disorders and helping them to achieve long-term recovery and change. Therapeutic Courts improve both public health and public safety, using evidence based and cost effective practices to support individuals and families affected by substance use and other behavioral health conditions in making long term changes that transform lives, and make healthier and safer communities.