ACT stands for Assessment, Course, Treatment.

Up North Counseling's ACT program base fee ($375) includes a substance use assessment and 12 hours of evidence-based education utilizing the Prime for Life (course) curriculum, and possibly treatment based on your assessment findings and/or DUI offense number (2nd and subsequent require treatment). Our ACT program will help participants navigate their legal obligations while gaining insight into biological risk factors that make us susceptible to addiction, low and high-risk choices surrounding alcohol and drug use, and how to avoid risking our values due to alcohol and drug use.

ACT is often a condition of a DUI or MIP charge; however, it is also valuable for anyone seeking greater awareness, accountability, and prevention-focused support surrounding their consumption of alcohol and drugs.

Learn more about Montana’s ACT requirements through the Montana Department of Transportation:
Montana Department of Transportation – ACT Program Information

Prime for Life®

Prime for Life® is the curriculum used within the ACT program.

It provides a judgment-free way of understanding how alcohol- and drug-related problems develop, what we can do to prevent them, and why sometimes we need help. The program focuses on personal responsibility, informed decision-making, and practical tools for change.

To learn more about the curriculum, visit:
www.primeforlife.org

Upcoming Class Schedule

• Tuesday Evenings: 5:00–9:00 PM

• Weekend Classes: Once per month (or more, based on demand)

• In-Person Classes: Beginning in May, based on demand

Class formats and availability may adjust depending on enrollment and community need.

Program Costs

• ACT Program: $375
  Includes chemical dependency assessment, Prime for Life® class, and one Prime for Life® workbook (PDF or physical copy)

• Additional Prime for Life® Workbook: $25

• Mailing Fee for Physical Workbook: $10

• Chemical Dependency Assessment Only: $275

• Prime for Life® Class Only: $250

• MIP Class: $250

If you have questions about which option is right for you, please reach out for clarification before registering.

About Ashly

Ashly was trained in Prime for Life® in 2010 when Montana adopted the curriculum statewide. Since then, she has remained deeply committed to delivering the material with integrity, clarity, and compassion.

Ashly brings a unique teaching style that blends the engaging, performative skills developed through her music career with a strong respect for the evidence-based foundation of the Prime for Life® program. Her classes are informative, approachable, and designed to help participants truly understand the material, not just complete a requirement.

She currently contracts as a Coach with Prevention Research Institute, the creators of Prime for Life®, assisting with training and certifying new instructors to ensure competency and fidelity to the curriculum.

Questions or Registration

If you have questions about the ACT program, scheduling, or which services you need, please reach out directly. Support and clear information are part of the process.

Contact us to learn more or register