First Step Community Recovery Center (First Step CRC) is a medical-model residential treatment facility designed to serve individuals with a primary diagnosis of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Our approach is rooted in evidence-based care and compliance with Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) standards.
Our Facility
Capacity
65 beds
Location
Centrally located at 2819–2835 North 32nd Street, Milwaukee, WI 53210
Certifications
DHS 75.53 (Transitional Residential Treatment Service)
DHS 75.54 (Medically Monitored Residential Treatment Service)
Licensure
Compliant with DHS 83 for residential care facilities.
Our Model
First Step CRC represents a critical innovation in addiction treatment:
Medical Stabilization
We provide comprehensive medical services to stabilize clients before they transition to psychosocial treatment. This includes:
Warm Handoff Protocol
Once medically cleared, clients are seamlessly connected to a residential treatment provider for Phase Two – Psychosocial Services, ensuring continuity of care and improved outcomes.
Both Phase One (Medical Stabilization) and Phase Two (Psychosocial Treatment) are fully aligned with the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Criteria, which guide best practices for addiction treatment nationwide.
ASAM requires assessment across six dimensions:
Acute Intoxication and/or Withdrawal Potential
Biomedical Conditions and Complications
Emotional, Behavioral, or Cognitive Conditions and Complications
Readiness to Change
Relapse, Continued Use, or Continued Problem Potential
Recovery/Living Environment
Phase One
Phase One emphasizes the medical aspects of these dimensions—particularly Dimension 2: Biomedical Conditions and Complications—to ensure clients are physically stable and ready for treatment.
Phase Two
Phase Two focuses on the psychosocial dimensions (Dimensions 3, 4, and 5), providing counseling, education, and recovery support.
Our Mission
To reduce relapse, improve treatment engagement, and promote sustained recovery by addressing both medical and psychosocial needs in a structured, compassionate environment.