Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment
“BEST PRACTICES”

Assessment and Treatment Matching: Programs should conduct comprehensive assessments that cover psychiatric, psychological, and medical problems, learning disabilities, family functioning, and other aspects of the adolescent's life.

Comprehensive, Integrated Treatment Approach: Program services should address all aspects of an adolescent's life.

Family Involvement in Treatment: Research shows that involving parents in the adolescent's drug treatment produces better outcomes.

Developmentally Appropriate Program: Activities and materials should reflect the developmental differences between adults and adolescents.

Engaging and Retaining Teens in Treatment:  Treatment programs should build a climate of trust between the adolescent and the therapist.

Qualified Staff: Staff should be trained in adolescent development, co-occurring mental disorders, substance abuse, and addiction.

Gender and Cultural Competence: Programs should address the distinct needs of adolescent boys and girls as well as cultural differences among minorities.

Continuing Care: Programs should include relapse prevention training, aftercare plans, referrals to community resources, and follow-up.

Treatment Outcomes: Rigorous evaluation is required to measure success, target resources and improve treatment services.