This program consists of a minimum of one to nine contacts per week for a period of one to six months. It is structured into educational components that introduce each adolescent to the nature of substance use, the pros and cons of substance use, the management of feelings such as anger and fear, communication skills, how to cope with difficult situations, and individual and family counseling. These classes are linked with discussion sessions the goal of which is to explore the relationship of the educational concepts to each individual’s personal process in an emotionally safe and exploratory fashion. Specific individual issues identified in the group process are referred to individual counseling sessions where personal advice and specific interventions are discussed and implemented when appropriate.

Specific Aspects of Our Program:
Staff conducts a comprehensive assessment that covers psychological and medical problems, learning disabilities, family functioning, and other aspects of the lives of adolescents: school, home, social and public activities as well as parental involvement. The program reflects developmental differences between teens and adults and is built on a climate of trust, which maximizes engagement and retains teens in treatment. Our program staff is well trained in adolescent development, co-morbidity issues and substance use. They address the distinct needs of youth and relate those needs to the gender and ethnicity of our clients.  At the same time, because our staff is culturally aware and sensitive, they respect the many beliefs and values of the community they serve.