The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) traces its beginnings to the early 1950's when the New York Society on Alcoholism was formed, dedicated to improving treatment, education, research and prevention in the field of alcoholism. The Society grew and emerged as a national organization in 1967 the American Medical Society on Alcoholism (AMSA). Subsequent growth and expansion of members' focus to include other addictive disorders ultimately led to the adoption of the Society's current name and increased scope of activity in 1985. In 1988, the AMA granted full Delegate status to ASAM's representative, and in 1990, designated addiction medicine (ADM) a self designated specialty area.

Continuing the evolution of this national organization, component chapters have been formed, furthering the activities of the Society at state and community levels. The Washington Society of Addiction Medicine is one of these local chapters.