Steps Inc

Known as “Nashville West” for its unique contribution to country music, Bakersfield, California, also features Steps Inc. Since 1964 this nonprofit outpatient center has offered DUI classes and intensive treatment for substance use disorders. Kern County adults and adolescents can access a judgment-free zone to reinstate their licenses and learn more about recovery.

With outpatient care you can live at home and tend to daily responsibilities while getting the help you need. Whether this is your first offense or fourth, or you’ve been convicted of reckless driving, you’ll have a supportive environment to get back on track.

Their programs offer several tracks ranging from wet reckless to multiple offender classes. Depending on your unique situation you’ll participate in between two and 18 months of courses to meet the requirements for reinstatement. These courses offer education, individual counseling, group sessions and re-entry sessions at different intensity levels.

For me their DUI programs for minors really stood out. As the only program in Kern County to offer services for youth under 18, they ensure adolescents can receive the same high quality classes as adults. They welcome those referred by the courts of probation. I think this is great because these classes recognize that younger people can still experience addiction, so they offer early intervention. That way, you or your loved one can benefit from understanding the dangers of driving under the influence and prevent further offenses.

I also think it’s nice that they provide an intensive outpatient program (IOP). They understand that substance abuse is often the root cause of DUI offenses. You can participate in assessments, counseling, family therapy and care coordination. Their dedicated team helps you get to the core of addiction and build coping skills. With these healthy skills you can sustain recovery and avoid future offenses.