Adolescent Services
Adolescent Treatment and Services
At CKF Addiction Treatment, we understand the challenges that come with accessing specialized care, especially in rural and underserved areas. That’s why we’ve developed programming that brings expert addiction support directly to the homes of those who need it most.
Assessments
CKF offers drug and alcohol assessments for adolescents aged 12-17
Level 1 Outpatient Treatment, Telehealth
CKF currently offers a level 1 telehealth outpatient treatment program that runs Monday-Friday from 4 PM to 5PM.
School-Based Services
Adolescents who have experienced mild to moderate substance use work one-to-one with an integrated/on-site CKF staff.
Challenging Myths and Stigma
Addressing common myths and misconceptions about substance use.
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- Addiction is a chronic illness. Let’s say that again; Addiction is a chronic illness. It’s not a moral failing or a weakness
- Direct and informative education allows adolescents to have the information they need to make healthy choices. Providing accurate, objective information will not increase the likelihood of use
- It really is okay (and normal) to ask for help. Open dialogue around your overall health is essential in reducing barriers and achieving healthy outcomes
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Building TRUST and COMMUNICATION
Strategies for building and maintaining trust with your child:
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- Reinforce that honesty won’t be punished
- Reassurance of support and guidance, regardless of what they do or have done
- Reward with praise when they are open and honest
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Open Communication Strategies
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- Take notes and write down your observations around changes you’ve seen
- Set a goal for the conversation prior to sitting down with your child
- Make sure you are having conversations, not confrontations. If this is something new for your family, make sure you plan for a series of ongoing conversations, to keep the lines of communication open
- Listen without judgment
- Ask open-ended questions and demonstrate understanding of what they are telling you
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Setting Boundaries
Communicating with your child about these risks and concerns provides an organic conversation starter
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- Share expectations with your children around substance misuse and hold them accountable to these expectations
- Understand the difference between punishment and consequences
- If there is a family history of addiction, there is a higher likelihood for risky use or addiction later in life
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Speaking about addiction and substance use
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- Use person-first language: An individual is not defined by their use, diagnosis or illness
- Avoid stigmatizing words: This implies blame or failing on the part of the individual while also reinforcing stigma
- Meet them where they are: We all have different readiness for change for any number of things. Meeting someone “where they are” supports their individual process and establishing goals.
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Impact on Development
Q. How does substance use affect the physical and mental development of adolescents?
A. Substance use affects the physical and mental development of adolescents. The brain is still developing until around age 25. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for judgment, decision making and impulse control, is one of the last parts of the brain to fully develop.
Want to learn more about our adolescent services?