Alcohol & Drug Abuse Office - Concord, NH

NH Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Services

The Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Services (BDAS), operating under the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is the lead state agency responsible for addressing substance misuse and addiction. Located in the Main Building of the Hugh Gallen State Office Park on Pleasant Street, the Bureau works to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of care for the prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery of individuals dealing with substance use disorders. While this specific office primarily handles administrative and regulatory functions rather than direct patient care, it plays a pivotal role in funding and overseeing the network of treatment providers across the Granite State.

Licensing and Workforce Development

A key function of this office is the administration of the Board of Licensing for Alcohol and Other Drug Use Professionals. Staff here oversee the credentialing process for alcohol and drug counselors, ensuring that practitioners in New Hampshire meet rigorous standards of education and competence. The Bureau also coordinates workforce development initiatives to train and retain skilled professionals in the addiction services field. They provide resources and guidance for those seeking to become Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADC) or Certified Recovery Support Workers (CRSW), directly impacting the quality of care available to residents.

Prevention and Impaired Driving Programs

The Bureau manages the state's Impaired Driver Care Management Programs (IDCMP), which are mandatory for individuals convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI). They establish the rules and curriculum for these programs to reduce recidivism and improve public safety. Additionally, the office leads statewide prevention strategies, allocating funds to regional public health networks and community coalitions to educate the public about the risks of alcohol and drug misuse. Through the ”The Doorway” initiative and the 2-1-1 NH partnership, the Bureau ensures that any resident seeking help can easily navigate the path to recovery.

• Oversight of state-funded substance use treatment programs.
• Licensing and certification of alcohol and drug counselors.
• Administration of Impaired Driver Care Management Programs.
• Coordination of statewide prevention and recovery support.
• Policy development and federal grant management.