Because each teenager is unique in his or her treatment requirements and needs, a thorough mental and physical evaluation is conducted prior to starting treatment.  Based on this assessment, a customized treatment plan can be created to treat both the addiction and the co-occurring disorder. Adolescent treatment includes:

1. Detox and Withdrawal.  A medical detox is necessary when the SUD has a lengthy history and dependency has developed.  Through the medical detoxification phase, and under the care of our doctors, the body cleanses itself of the chemical toxins related to the substance of use disorder, providing the teen with a better chance for participating fully in the subsequent treatment for both the SUD and the mental health component.
2. Active treatment of the dual diagnosis.  The teen will be guided toward the best treatment fit for his or her particular situation.  An inpatient treatment program provides the highest standard of treatment for dual diagnosis rehab, with in-depth therapeutic interventions and activities integrated for both disorders.  An outpatient treatment program is appropriate for a mild SUD and a mental health disorder that is responsive to medications.

Whichever program is selected to treat the teen’s dual diagnosis, it will encompass individual psychotherapy, assessments and diagnostics, psychiatry, group therapy, medication management, addiction education, relapse prevention, and adjunct experiential therapies, such as meditation, mindfulness training, and art therapy.

1. Continuing care.  After completion of a dual diagnosis treatment program it is imperative that outpatient addiction therapy be ongoing, albeit to a lesser degree as active treatment.  There is much value in continuing to receiving counseling and participating in group therapy sessions, which will help ensure a successful treatment outcome.