Guide To Finding Adolescent Drug Treatment
Adolescent drug rehab centers are specifically designed to address the unique needs and challenges of this age group, providing age-appropriate treatment and support through detox, outpatient, or residential treatment.

Who is Adolescent Drug Rehab Good For?
Adolescent drug rehab programs are ideal for teens under some of the following circumstances:
- Any teen struggling with a substance use disorder, whether they have received help or not. It’s better to get the problem under control now than wait until they begin their early adult years.
- Teens who need a supportive peer environment. Adolescent drug rehab provides a supportive environment where young people can connect with peers who are facing similar challenges.
- Adolescents who would benefit from life skills training. Most drug rehab centers for teens offer life skills counseling and training. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, for example, helps young people navigate the challenges of daily life, make healthy decisions, and build a strong foundation for their future.
- Teens who need to adopt or learn coping strategies. This can become essential for young people who begin experimenting with drugs and are slowly losing the battle. Programs typically offer personalized coping strategies to help young people deal with stress, peer pressure, and other triggers that may contribute to substance use.
- Adolescents who need to reconnect with their families. Drug rehab programs involve the family in the treatment process, recognizing the crucial role that family support can play in a young person’s recovery
It’s important to note that adolescent drug rehab may not be suitable for everyone. Each individual is unique, and the best rehab program aligns with their specific needs, circumstances, and goals for recovery.

Ask a Professional
What is adolescent drug rehab?
Adolescent drug rehab is a rehabilitative service tailored to meet the needs of adolescents struggling with addiction. These options include detox centers, inpatient or outpatient programs, counseling, therapy, and different forms of aftercare support.
How is adolescent drug treatment different?
Adolescent drug treatment offers specialized services for patients between the ages of 18 and 19. Such programs may or may not admit minors for treatment. Substance abuse treatment facilities specializing in treating teens or adolescents offer services that specifically address the common barriers to helping teens recover from addiction. That often means a larger emphasis on addiction’s impact on the family dynamic and other focuses like relapse prevention.
Are teens restricted to adolescent treatment only?
No, adolescents ages 18 and 19 may attend any facility that any adult can. However, minors who are technically children under 18 may only seek treatment at certain facilities. These facilities must be licensed to provide care to minors because entirely different sets of rules surrounding confidentiality, boarding, and care apply. Minors may even be legally forced into treatment by their parents in extreme situations, so these facilities must be prepared and equipped for such patients.
Are there benefits to adolescent drug treatment?
Yes, adolescent treatment programs are geared toward helping teens recover from addiction and prevent relapse. Because these programs provide specialized services and pay extra attention to the needs of teens struggling with addiction, they can make a big difference in the patient’s success. In adult programs, teens may feel disconnected or like treatment doesn’t apply to them, significantly lowering their chances of finding success.
Is adolescent substance use a phase in life?
No, it is not a phase in life. There is always a reason why teens begin to experiment with drugs or alcohol and why they eventually become dependent on or addicted to these substances.
When parents notice the signs of addiction, it is important to intervene. Substance abuse affects the growth and development of teens, especially brain development.
Teens will begin to engage in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex and dangerous activities. Drug and alcohol abuse among teens also contributes to adult health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.
Want to know more?
The questions from Addicted.org’s “Learn from our Experts” are answered by Michael Leach, CCMA. If you need further clarification on any of the questions above or have any other questions you can contact him directly at mike@addicted.org.