Compassionate Addiction Treatment (CAT)
Compassionate Addiction Treatment (also known as CAT Spokane) is a nonprofit organization based in Spokane, Washington, founded in 2019 by Hallie Burchinal. It operates a peer-led, trauma-informed recovery community offering low-barrier, holistic services to individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use disorders.
History
Compassionate Addiction Treatment (CAT) began offering a safe space and zero-barrier addiction recovery services in downtown Spokane in 2019, with the opening of its initial facility located at 168 S Division Street.³ It is currently located at 960 E 3rd Ave. The organization has since expanded its services to include a range of community-driven and person-centered interventions.
Mission and Approach
CAT’s mission is to foster trust, hope, and personal empowerment by removing barriers to treatment and providing compassionate, holistic care in a safe, therapeutic environment.⁷ The organization emphasizes a trauma-informed, harm-reduction approach, guided by peer support and utilizing the "Seeking Safety" treatment model.⁴⁶ Peer-led services are central to its approach, with team members who draw upon their own lived experience of recovery and homelessness.²⁴
Programs and Services
Recovery Community Day Program
CAT runs a peer-led day program in a homelike environment that supports unhoused or recently housed individuals. Services include peer counseling, navigation to services, group activities such as meditation, art, and music, and provision of snacks and coffee—all offered at no cost.⁸
Outpatient & Intensive Outpatient Treatment
CAT provides licensed assessments, Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and standard Outpatient (OP) treatment for substance use disorders. These services are delivered in a judgment-free, flexible environment designed to meet the needs of individuals experiencing housing instability.⁶
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MOUD)
The organization operates a same-day, walk-in clinic offering medications for opioid use disorder, including Suboxone and monthly Sublocade injections. Services include peer support and free Naloxone (Narcan) distribution.⁴
CAT’s street outreach teams, staffed by Certified Peer Counselors, engage individuals experiencing homelessness directly in downtown Spokane. They distribute essential supplies (e.g., water, warm clothing, wound care items), establish trusting relationships, and connect people to broader community resources.⁰⁵⁷
Housing & Employment Case Management
Through peer-led case management, CAT assists clients in obtaining documentation, developing resumes, applying for jobs or housing, and setting personal goals. Ongoing support is provided after employment or housing acquisition.⁰⁵
Community Education and Advocacy
CAT participates in community outreach and education to reduce stigma surrounding addiction and homelessness. They offer presentations and trainings on topics including de-escalation, harm reduction, zero-barrier access, and the overlap of homelessness and substance use.⁰⁹
Partnerships and Support
The organization is supported by a variety of community partners and foundations, including the Smith-Barbieri Progressive Fund, Rayce Rudeen Foundation, Waters Meet, Better Health Together, Providence Inland Northwest Foundation, Avista Foundation, Women Helping Women Fund, Community Building Foundation, Amerigroup, and others.⁹
Organization and Governance
100% of CAT’s team members are in recovery, and many have experienced homelessness themselves. An Advisory Board—including people with lived experience—provides guidance and oversight.² Hallie Burchinal serves as Founder and Special Advisor.² CAT holds nonprofit status with EIN 83-4425311.⁷
Recognition and Impact
CAT has been recognized for its peer-led, zero-barrier model of care. Local coverage and testimonials highlight its unique approach to engaging individuals often excluded from traditional treatment systems.⁵ Community members have described CAT as a place of acceptance and healing.⁵
References
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