Whitman Walker Health

About Whitman Walker Health

Located on 14th Street NW near Logan Circle, Whitman Walker Health is a facility that offers behavioral health services in Washington, DC. Clients can receive treatments for addiction such as outpatient therapy and medication assisted treatment. Payment options accepted at this facility include Medicaid and Medicare.

Managing Withdrawal Symptoms With Medication

The medication for opioid use disorder program or MOUD will involve taking buprenorphine to quit using opioids such as prescription pain medication and heroin. The medication is designed to manage your withdrawal symptoms so you avoid relapsing and focus more on your recovery.

Clients who experience mental health issues along with their substance use disorder can be connected to a psychiatrist, peer recovery specialist or counselor on staff. A psychiatrist can prescribe medications to manage your mental health symptoms as needed.

The peer recovery specialist available to work with you will be able to share their experience with recovering from addiction. You’ll be able to receive support individually or within a group over the telephone or in person.

A Multi Format Outpatient Program

Your outpatient addiction care will incorporate various treatments including individual counseling, groups counseling, and family education. Your family becoming educated on addiction will make them better equipped to be a support system for you in your recovery. The facility will tailor the length of time you’re in the program and the content of the program to your specific needs.

When you have time outside of your treatment sessions, you can explore all that Washington, DC has to offer. Some great places that might be fun for you to visit include the United States Botanic Garden and the Smithsonian National Zoological Park.

Latest Reviews

john doe

2 months ago on Google

A Disappointing and Concerning Experience at Whitman-Walker Clinic on 14th Street, NWWhitman-Walker Clinic s 14th Street NW location in Washington, DC, may be housed in a sleek, modern building, but my recent visit revealed that the quality of service does not match the facility s appearance.I went in for a simple issue obtaining medication for oral thrush and left with unanswered questions and mounting frustration. The provider I saw, whose professional status was unclear (she wore no name tag and did not offer a business card), was polite and tried to be helpful. However, she informed me that my file had duplicates containing conflicting and apparently inaccurate information. Despite acknowledging this, she made no effort to reconcile or correct the records, raising red flags about the integrity of their recordkeeping. I was left with the unsettling impression that I may have been the victim of some form of fraud or administrative negligence.She claimed to submit a prescription to the CVS at 6514 Georgia Avenue NW. Yet, several days later, I still had no medication no call from the pharmacy, and no follow-up from the clinic. Attempts to get answers by phone were futile: long hold times, no resolution, no escalation pathway, and no direct line for complaints. I eventually gave up after being repeatedly put on hold with no assistance.Adding insult to injury, I was asked whether I wanted Whitman-Walker to serve as my primary care provider. This struck me as completely out of touch how could I trust a clinic to manage my overall health when they can t ensure a single prescription is properly filled or maintain accurate patient records?To be fair, Whitman-Walker is known for its work in HIV testing and prevention, and that may still be where its competence is concentrated. But beyond that, the clinic appears to suffer from serious operational and accountability issues.A modern building cannot mask outdated or dysfunctional internal systems. Patients deserve clear communication, reliable care, and accurate records not confusion, delay, and doubt.

Robert Pin

2 months ago on Google

Is this place on strike? I m simply trying to fill my prescription, but no one is answering the phone. I ve called every line and left voicemails, yet it s been over a week with no callbacks.

Jess M

3 months ago on Google

Making an appointment here is extremely difficult to navigate. My PCP only practices with Whitman Walker, between the different locations. When I emailed in early March to make an appointment, I was told they have no availability until June. When I called, they said my PCP isn't taking new patients? Then told me they could set me up with a different doctor that I could see at the end of May but refused to email me the names of the doctors or available appointment times so I could check to make sure they were in my network before scheduling... then I was told I could text them to schedule something. When I texted I got an AI customer service line that said they had no availability.I eventually gave up and am now looking to change my PCP.This could very well be a me issue, but I've received different information every time I've reached out and at this point I just think that making an appointment shouldn't be this difficult.

Rehab Score

Our Methodology

Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full Methodology

7 / 10

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Location

Other Forms of Payment

Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Sliding scale payments are based on a client's income and family size. The goal is to make treatment affordable to everyone. By taking these factors into account, addiction recovery care providers help ensure that your treatment does not become a financial burden to you or your family, eliminating one barrier to care.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Outpatient

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

Medically Assisted Detox

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Intensive Outpatient

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

It is possible to develop an addiction to legal or illegal substances. Fortunately, drug rehab programs in Washington, DC are available to treat all types of drug addiction. If you have become physically or psychologically dependent on any substance (addicted), this type of professional treatment program can help you break free.

Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Programs

Adult Program

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.

LGBTQ Program

Recovery is most successful when clients feel accepted and validated by their peers and treatment providers. Facilities that offer LGBTQ-inclusive programming are committed to creating a safe space where everyone can grow and recover without fear of judgment or discrimination. They will have dedicated policies in place to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters free expression.

Young Adult Program

Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment designed to help people understand and ultimately affect the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT is often used for individuals who struggle with self-harm behaviors, such as self-mutilation (cutting) and suicidal thoughts, urges, or attempts. It has been proven clinically effective for those who struggle with out-of-control emotions and mental health illnesses like Borderline Personality Disorder.

Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.

Trauma therapy addresses traumatic incidents from a client's past that are likely affecting their present-day experience. Trauma is often one of the primary triggers and potential causes of addiction, and can stem from child sexual abuse, domestic violence, having a parent with a mental illness, losing one or both parents at a young age, teenage or adult sexual assault, or any number of other factors. The purpose of trauma therapy is to allow a patient to process trauma and move through and past it, with the help of trained and compassionate mental health professionals.

Staff

Naseema Shafi

CEO

Meghan Davies

COO

Jessica Estrada

Senior Director of Nursing

David Fessler

Director of Clinical Practice

Jennifer Loken

Director of Therapy & Substance Use Treatment

Contact Information

(202) 939-7623

Website

1525 14th Street NorthWest
Washington, DC 20005

Get Help Now - 202-964-5768

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Reviews of Whitman Walker Health

3.4/5 (100 reviews)

Google Reviews

3.4 (100 reviews)

Tom Limmer

1 month ago

I've found the medical professionals at this clinic to be knowledgeable and provide good care. However, the experience is significantly let down by the appointment scheduling process. It's often very difficult to get through on the phone, and when I have, the staff have been unfriendly and unhelpful, seeming disinterested in assisting with booking. Addressing these front-desk issues would vastly improve the overall patient experience.

ty fields

Love this office. Everyone is so kind to me, and Dr. Mizrahi is one of the best doctors I’ve had the pleasure of seeing.

Chamberlain

Services and staff have gone south downhill like the stockmarket...operators are hanging the phone up,phlebotomist has anger issues,staff gossip about patients, billing gives incorrect information, frequent turnover throughout and security can be disrespectful.My tenure has been since 2022 and its become worse.A operator named (Stephanie)has a very short fuse so beware.

Dustin Migues

Whitman-Walker is funded via Special Interests such as Homeland Security, etcetera. HIV Task Forces, Surveillance, Etcetera is run out of the clinic. The funding structure of the clinic creates a hostile environment for LGBTI / Queers to receive PrEP Injections, Doxy PEP, Phlebotomy, and now ADHD Meds are not provided after raising concerns about the manner in which the clinic is operated. Moreover, a false record of schizophrenia was placed on my file in retaliation.

2 months ago

A Disappointing and Concerning Experience at Whitman-Walker Clinic on 14th Street, NW Whitman-Walker Clinic’s 14th Street NW location in Washington, DC, may be housed in a sleek, modern building, but my recent visit revealed that the quality of service does not match the facility’s appearance. I went in for a simple issue—obtaining medication for oral thrush—and left with unanswered questions and mounting frustration. The provider I saw, whose professional status was unclear (she wore no name tag and did not offer a business card), was polite and tried to be helpful. However, she informed me that my file had duplicates containing conflicting and apparently inaccurate information. Despite acknowledging this, she made no effort to reconcile or correct the records, raising red flags about the integrity of their recordkeeping. I was left with the unsettling impression that I may have been the victim of some form of fraud or administrative negligence. She claimed to submit a prescription to the CVS at 6514 Georgia Avenue NW. Yet, several days later, I still had no medication—no call from the pharmacy, and no follow-up from the clinic. Attempts to get answers by phone were futile: long hold times, no resolution, no escalation pathway, and no direct line for complaints. I eventually gave up after being repeatedly put on hold with no assistance. Adding insult to injury, I was asked whether I wanted Whitman-Walker to serve as my primary care provider. This struck me as completely out of touch—how could I trust a clinic to manage my overall health when they can’t ensure a single prescription is properly filled or maintain accurate patient records? To be fair, Whitman-Walker is known for its work in HIV testing and prevention, and that may still be where its competence is concentrated. But beyond that, the clinic appears to suffer from serious operational and accountability issues. A modern building cannot mask outdated or dysfunctional internal systems. Patients deserve clear communication, reliable care, and accurate records—not confusion, delay, and doubt.

Is this place on strike? I’m simply trying to fill my prescription, but no one is answering the phone. I’ve called every line and left voicemails, yet it’s been over a week with no callbacks.

3 months ago

Simon Regenold

Jen Gilbert

Quislings

Francisco Iglesias

Shane Sullivan

Was tempted to give them 2 stars out of fairness to the fact that the Max Robinson Center staff are by & large amazing, wonderful people who I’ve had the honor of working with in my capacity as a healthcare provider myself. Then I realized there’s a separate GoogleReviews for that location, so to be clear: 1525’s staff deadnamed and misgendered me, the latter because they never even bothered to ask my pronouns which isn’t exactly ideal for anyone who exclusively uses they/them. I expect better from ‘the premiere LGBTQ health clinic’ of DC. I was promised by their front desk staff that I wouldn’t be charged for an appointment my insurance fully covered, and then was subsequently sent a $127 bill - including for a flu shot that was never administered - * 7 times * before I (stupidly and regretfully) paid it. This was at the start of COVID, three months after my appointment that was absolutely useless and completely dehumanizing in other ways that were so egregious I’m not comfortable talking about them here. But I’ll just say that I’m not the first, and have heard similar stories from friends. I’m posting this review now because it’s past time I spoke up about how poorly the staff treated me there now that WW has made it clear they’re willing to throw trans people under the bus to a fascist regime for ‘fear of losing funding.’ Removing ‘gender-affirming care’ from your website while still providing it doesn’t mean you’re complying with the illegal executive order of this fascist administration - it just means you’re pretending to do so and simultaneously making those services and other materials that have all been swiped from their site all the more difficult to access. They’re afraid of funding being cut? Every fellow GNC/trans person I know is afraid of receiving ‘care’ from them now.

Maeve Plummer

Sells out trans community! Where is gender affirming care in website?

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