Washington Substance Abuse Programs for Youth

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.

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.

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.

The questions from Addicted.org’s “Ask a Professional” 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 [email protected].