Substance Abuse Counseling for Teenagers

The overall goal of the adolescent substance abuse program is to help teenagers and their families develop the skills they need to resolve problems and manage feelings and behaviors effectively without using drugs or alcohol. The programs are designed to be intensive and to supplement the individual and family therapy that a client may already be receiving. Treatment is completely individualized and focuses on the issues that matter most to the teenager and his/her family. Additionally, because the programs are scheduled during after-school hours, teenagers are able to remain in their own school throughout the treatment process. The Adolescent programs serve adolescents from ages 13 to 18. Some of the areas that are addressed within our program include:

• Alcohol Abuse
• Drug Abuse
• Skills training to become abstinent
• Relapse Prevention
• Understanding the consequences of substance abuse
• Communication skills
• Conflict Resolution skills
• Mental Health Issues
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Bipolar Disorders
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Self-destructive behaviors
  • Truancy or running away behaviors
  • Anger problems
  • Defiance and conduct problems
  • Low self-esteem

Partial Day Program for Adolescents

This is an after-school program that focuses on helping teenagers deal with their substance abuse issues. The program uses a systemic approach that helps teenagers resolve issues both within themselves and within their families. The initial groups each day are designed to give teenagers a chance to identify the causes of their emotional and behavioral struggles and then learn the skills they need to cope effectively.

In the evening, parents join the teenagers to address the conflicts and communication issues within the family. These groups are designed so that parents and primary caregivers can ensure that their teenagers deal with the issues that they are struggling with at home. These groups focus on relapse prevention, effective parenting strategies, conflict resolution strategies, communication skills, and problem-solving skills within the family. The groups also allow families to work through the conflicts that are occurring within the home and to develop the skills they need to resolve conflicts in the future. In addition, all teenagers are evaluated by a psychiatrist and are provided medication management as needed.

Intensive Outpatient Program for Adolescents

The Intensive Outpatient Program is designed to help teenagers deal with the problems associated with substance abuse. Some of the issues addressed include building self-esteem, overcoming depression and anxiety, learning coping skills to maintain sobriety, learning to spot relapse triggers, developing communication skills, and resolving family conflicts. The program is a less intensive option than the Partial Day Program and is designed to help teenagers and their families continue to develop the skills they need to cope with life once they leave New Dimensions. Teenagers have the option of attending the afternoon or evening sessions, based on the individualized treatment plan that is created with the treatment team.

Atmosphere in the Program

The program offers a casual, comfortable and confidential atmosphere. The daily groups offer individuals a safe environment to explore difficult life issues while receiving support from the staff and other group members. In addition, the staff is available throughout the program day when patients have questions or need support.

Most of the treatment team offices are located in close proximity to the adolescent group room. The patients, families, and staff members function together as a community. The open group process provides a forum for patients and families to develop strong connections with each other, creating a healing group environment. These connections frequently allow patients and families to work through those issues that they most need to resolve. For some patients and families, the bonds they create can last a lifetime.

Schedule (Subject to change for each location):

New Dimensions Can Help!

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms or problems, New Dimensions can help. Our team of experienced therapists and psychiatrists can help you overcome these challenges and help you develop the skills you need to thrive. To schedule a complementary assessment or to find out more about our programs, contact us at 1-800-685-9796.

Our affiliate, MHThrive, provides Individual Therapy, Couples and Marriage Counseling, and Family Therapy at our locations in Katy, The Woodlands, and the Clear Lake area of Houston, Texas. We also provide telehealth therapy for anyone who resides within the State of Texas. To schedule an appointment with one of the MHThrive therapists, contact us at 713-477-0333 or visit www.mhthrive.com to learn more.