Key Takeaways 

• Lakeside-Milam has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers, and Washington State’s top facility, for the fifth consecutive year. 

• The award shines a spotlight on Lakeside-Milam’s evidence-based clinical practices and commitment to exceptional patient outcomes. 

• The center’s long-standing reputation is built on its CARF accreditation, ASAM certification, and decades of trusted care. 

• This Lakeside-Milam recognition reinforces trust among individuals, families, and professional referral partners seeking the best addiction treatment centers in 2025. 

Outside Validation for an Already-Trusted Treatment Program

For more than four decades, Lakeside-Milam has been a trusted leader in addiction treatment across Washington State. Professionals, alumni, and anyone else familiar with the program won’t be surprised to learn that Newsweek has named the program one of America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers — and the #1 Treatment Provider in Washington for the fifth year in a row. 

This award places Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers among the best rehab centers in the U.S., highlighting its longstanding commitment to compassionate care, clinical excellence, and evidence-based treatment. For individuals and families searching for a trustworthy, effective, and accredited program, this recognition serves as a powerful recommendation. For the clinicians and staff who pour their hearts and souls into helping patients at Lakeside-Milam every day, it’s meaningful validation. 

Read on to learn more about what the Newsweek award represents, why Lakeside-Milam stands out nationally, and why this recognition should matter to individuals and families seeking a path to recovery. 

What the Newsweek Award Represents 

Each year, Newsweek partners with the global data firm Statista to evaluate and rank leading addiction treatment centers across the United States. This annual list of “America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers” is based on a rigorous methodology that includes: 

• Peer recommendations from physicians, therapists, and healthcare professionals 

• Quality indicators, such as accreditations, certifications, and evidence-based care measures 

• Patient satisfaction data shared in the form of annual outcomes reporting 

• Reputation scores within the broader healthcare system

Appearing on this list means Lakeside-Milam has earned national recognition for delivering high-quality, patient-centered addiction care. Ranking first in a state — especially for five consecutive years — signals extraordinary consistency and effectiveness. 

For Lakeside-Milam, it’s a distinction that reaffirms our role as one of the top rehab centers in Washington and a trusted provider of care for those in the Pacific Northwest and beyond who are seeking help with substance use disorders. 

A Leadership Perspective: What This Recognition Means

When asked what the Newsweek honor signifies for staff, clients, and the broader recovery community, Lakeside-Milam leadership shared that they are honored to be recognized for the fifth year in a row. “This recognition for quality services builds on the foundation of state licensure (for providers, programs, and facilities), accreditation through Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and certification through the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).”

This sentiment underscores the heart of Lakeside-Milam’s mission: to provide compassionate, effective, and ethical treatment to every individual seeking recovery. And it shows that the work they doing is making a difference.

“It is an honor to be recognized by Newsweek as Washington’s best,” leadership said. “It is well deserved and a testament to the commitment and effectiveness of our team. We believe it is also an aid in building trust with individuals and families seeking help to heal.”

Why Lakeside-Milam Stands Out Among the Nation’s Best Treatment Centers 

The success of a program like Lakeside-Milam’s can’t be tied to one individual feature. Instead, it’s a combination of many factors that combine to create a comprehensive treatment experience.

5 Differentiators That Set Lakeside-Milam Apart 

1. A Highly Accredited Addiction Program

Lakeside-Milam’s dedication to clinical quality is reflected in its core accreditations, certifications and licensure: 

• CARF Accreditation – CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) sets international standards for rehab quality. 

• ASAM Certification – Certification by the American Society of Addiction Medicine confirms that a center delivers evidence-based, medically responsible care. 

• State Licensure – All Lakeside-Milam facilities and providers are licensed by Washington State, ensuring compliance with stringent oversight standards. 

These outside organizations provide unbiased affirmation that Lakeside-Milam continues to offer care aligned with national best practices and clinical excellence. 

2. Evidence-Based Treatment That Produces Results

Lakeside-Milam’s treatment philosophy is grounded in research and proven modalities. Our programs integrate: 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

• Individual and group counseling 

• Family involvement and education 

• Medical assessment and withdrawal management 

• Relapse prevention strategies 

• Post-treatment support and alumni resources 

This research-backed approach goes beyond just addressing symptoms to treat root causes, better supporting long-term recovery and sustainable healing. 

3. Experienced, Compassionate Clinicians

Recognition at this level reflects the dedication of a skilled, multidisciplinary team that is made up of: 

• Addiction counselors 

• Mental health professionals 

• Certified SUD (substance use disorder) clinicians 

• Physicians and medical providers 

• Nurses and supportive care staff 

Many team members have decades of experience, and some are Lakeside-Milam alumni themselves — bringing empathy, understanding, professionalism, and commitment to each patient interaction. 

4. An Accessible Continuum of Care Across Washington State

Lakeside-Milam offers a full continuum of treatment services to meet individuals wherever they are in their recovery journey, including: 

• Detox and Withdrawal Management 

• Residential Inpatient Treatment 

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) 

• Virtual Outpatient Treatment 

• Family Programs 

• Alumni Recovery Support 

This wide range of treatment options ensures patients receive the right level of care, from stabilization to long-term support. 

5. A Proven Legacy of Trust — Helping More Than 100,000 People Since 1983

Lakeside-Milam has been a pioneer in addiction treatment in Washington for more than 40 years. The center has helped over 100,000 individuals begin their recovery journey — a testament to its effectiveness, reputation, and deep roots in the community. 

The combination of tradition, innovation, and a people-first philosophy continues to position Lakeside-Milam among the best addiction treatment centers in 2025. 

4 Reasons This Recognition Matters to Those Seeking Treatment 

The Newsweek recognition does more than highlight Lakeside-Milam’s achievements. It also provides reassurance to individuals and families searching for an accredited, trustworthy program — especially during what is often a vulnerable and overwhelming time. 

Because of its appearance at the top of this list for Washington State, and the fact that the program continues to be honored year after year, those considering Lakeside-Milam for themself or a loved one get: 

Confidence They’re Choosing the Right Program – Independent evaluations offer valuable confirmation that a treatment center meets high standards for care, safety, and outcomes. 

Assurance of High Clinical Standards – The combination of CARF, ASAM, and state licensure ensures treatment is ethical, evidence-based, and medically informed. 

Trust Built Through Consistency – Achieving the top ranking for five consecutive years reflects proven reliability and ongoing commitment — not a one-time performance. 

Community Value and Professional Respect – Referral partners — including healthcare providers, therapists, courts, and schools — can confidently recommend Lakeside-Milam, knowing national rankings and peer organizations endorse it. 

Lakeside-Milam’s Continued Commitment to Quality and Care 

Although awards are meaningful, what matters most to Lakeside-Milam is the ongoing work: helping people reclaim their lives. Our mission hasn’t changed.  

The organization remains focused on: 

• Expanding access to care 

• Strengthening clinical outcomes 

• Providing trauma-informed and culturally responsive services 

• Supporting families throughout the recovery process 

• Enhancing alumni programming and long-term support 

The Newsweek recognition serves as both validation and motivation — affirming the quality of existing programs while inspiring further growth and investment in patient care. 

Moving Forward with Confidence 

Being recognized as one of America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers and Washington’s #1 facility for the fifth year in a row is an honor that Lakeside-Milam does not take lightly. This achievement reflects decades of dedication, the strength of the recovery community, and the unwavering commitment of its staff. 

For individuals and families seeking help, this recognition offers reassurance: you are choosing an accredited, compassionate, and highly respected program — one that has helped tens of thousands reclaim their lives. 

If you or someone you love is ready to begin the path toward recovery, Lakeside-Milam is here to help. Reach out for a free clinical assessment or contact our expert admissions team today. 

Answers to Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Newsweek Best Addiction Treatment Centers award based on? 

The ranking evaluates treatment centers using peer recommendations, quality indicators, accreditations, and patient satisfaction data. Details about the methodology can be found on Newsweek’s official ranking page. 

Why does accreditation matter when choosing a rehab center? 

Accreditations — such as CARF and ASAM — ensure that a treatment center follows high clinical standards, provides evidence-based care, and maintains safety, ethical practices, and strong outcomes. 

How do I know if Lakeside-Milam is the right program for me or my loved one? 

Lakeside-Milam offers a full continuum of care, from detox to outpatient services. If you’re still not sure if treatment is needed, a free assessment can help determine the appropriate level of support.

How quickly can someone begin treatment? 

Admission timelines vary based on program availability and individual needs, but many individuals begin treatment quickly after completing an initial assessment.