Adolescent Drug Abuse Prevention And Treatment

The program is directed by Vincent B. Van Hasselt, Ph.D. He is a licensed psychologist and a clinical supervisor. Van Hasselt has more than 30 years experience as a clinical practitioner, administrator, consultant, educator, and researcher. He is author and editor of more than 200 journal articles, books, and book chapters on the problems of family violence and behaviorally disordered children and their families. Van Hasselt is editor of the Handbook of Family Violence, Behavior Therapy with Children and Adolescents: A Clinical Approach, Aggression and Violent Behavior: A Review Journal, and the Journal of Child and Adolescent Substance Abuse. The Adolescent Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program provides outpatient treatment to adolescents referred by police, schools, other local agencies, and parents. Adolescents have been referred for possession of marijuana/paraphernalia, petty theft, disorderly conduct, trespassing, and use of alcohol under age 21. Additional reasons for referral include difficult peer relationships, defiance, school problems, anger management difficulties, and low self-esteem. Treatment is customized based on the presenting problem, parental concerns, and deficits evidenced by the assessments used at intake. In connection with the Family Violence Program, the clinic offers a broad- spectrum assessment and behavioral intervention for these adolescents and their families. The interventions used have been proven effective through research studies for the above-mentioned issues. What is the Adolescent Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program? It is an early intervention program for adolescents who n committed first time misdemeanor offenses n identified as at risk for perpetrating serious offenses n have a history of substance abuse or who are at risk for substance abuse n have difficulties managing feelings of anger Once the assessment phase is completed, your therapist will review the results and desired therapy goals and make treatment recommendations. Who is at risk? Adolescents who are at risk for substance abuse may display the following: n aggression, opposition, non-compliance n depression, social withdrawal, worrying, and anxiety n ow self-esteem n poor anger control and impulsivity n social skills deficits About The Program Services Provided Program Director Assessment The initial assessment consists of a comprehensive evaluation in the following areas: n cognitive functioning n emotional and social functioning n familial stress and satisfaction n substance use and abuse Treatment The clinic is designed to meet the individual needs of each adolescent and his or her family. The program involves application of multiple components that focus on the individual child, family, and the stressors in the family system. Specific components include n anger management n assertiveness skills n behavioral contracting n communication skills training n parent-child relationship enhancement n parenting skills training n problem-solving skills training n social skills training n stress management