Advancing Excellence in Addiction Counseling

Stay informed with the latest advocacy efforts, research breakthroughs, and clinical interventions. Join our local, regional, and statewide training opportunities to improve professionalism and provide ethical, evidence-based treatment. 

Resources and Support for Addiction Professionals in Virginia

Mission


Unify, empower, promote, mentor, train, and advocate for our members; develop and maximize opportunities for treatment and recovery professionals; and lead Virginia’s treatment and recovery professionals in their efforts to provide excellent care, fight stigma, and grow and develop professionally. 

Values

Excellent and ethical treatment and recovery in Virginia, and throughout the world.

Vision

The professional standard bearer for treatment and recovery professionals.

About Us

  • VAAP was founded in 1970, first as TAPISA (Tidewater Association of Professionals Interested in Substance Abuse), then in the late 1960s as VAADAC (Virginia Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors), then, in 2013, VAAP (Virginia Association of Addiction Professionals). 
  • VAAP, an affiliate of “NAADAC”, The Association for Addiction Professionals, is guided by its Bylaws and works for the promotion and advancement of the profession through a Professional Code of Ethics and the adoption of standards of competence to ensure the highest quality of services in counseling and treatment and to help persons who have problems related to the use of substances in Virginia.
  • Currently, there are over 39 active state affiliates and 5 more international start-ups.