Adult Treatment Resources.
This page provides an overview of Washington State adult treatment pathways and systems.
Specific eligibility, requirements, and processes are governed by statute and agency policy.
Special Sex Offender Sentencing Alternative (SSOSA)
SSOSA allows eligible individuals convicted of certain offenses to be evaluated for community-based treatment under court supervision. Evaluations and treatment are conducted by state-certified providers.
Research conducted by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy has consistently found SSOSA participants to have low sexual reoffense rates when compared to other groups.
Department of Corrections Sex Offender Treatment Program (SOTP)
SOTP is a prison-based treatment program available to eligible incarcerated individuals who acknowledge responsibility for their offense. Treatment is grounded in cognitive-behavioral and relapse-prevention approaches, with transition to community aftercare when appropriate.
Post-Release & Community Treatment
Courts may order ongoing treatment following release. Services may be provided through DOC aftercare or certified private providers, depending on prior treatment completion and sentencing requirements.
Special Commitment Center (SVP Program)
A small percentage of individuals may be civilly committed under Washington law following the completion of a criminal sentence. Treatment includes phased inpatient programming and, when approved, transition to less restrictive alternatives under court oversight.
Private Pay Services
Some individuals and families seek treatment outside court-mandated pathways. Many WATSA members provide private, specialized services consistent with professional standards.