Teen Intervene is a FREE Service!

Teen Intervene is an early intervention program for 12 to 19-year-olds who are showing the early stages of alcohol or substance use problems (e.g., using or possessing substances during school) but DO NOT use these substances daily or demonstrate substance dependence. The program consists of two-to-three one hour long sessions that are individualized to the specific needs of each teen. Each session focuses on positive behavior change, harm reduction, and ultimately, abstinence from substance use. Teen Intervene has a grounding in stages of change theory, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.

Teen Intervene is administered in two-to-three one hour long sessions by a trained professional over the course of approximately two weeks. The goals of the program are to:

  • Motivate the teen to change and improve their self-efficiency skills

  • Learn about the harmful effects of substance use/abuse

  • Learn communication and coping skills

  • Establish and reinforce support systems

Teen Intervene focuses heavily on problematic alcohol, nicotine/tobacco, and marijuana use; three of the most commonly used substances among adolescents. Teen Intervene is the intervention method of choice when the potential for a future substance abuse problem has been identified. It is most appropriate for teens who are in the early stages of substance use or who are demonstrating mild to moderate problems with substance use. Teen intervene is not indicated for teens who use alcohol or drugs on a daily basis, are showing signs of dependence on drugs or alcohol, or who have a serious untreated psychiatric disorder.

If you are concerned with a teen’s substance use and would like to contact someone:

Call our hotline at (845) 634-6677 ext. 111

or 845-429-5731 ext. 14

or E-mail:

teenintervene@candlerockland.org

or tim.sanders@vohny.com

Warning Signs of Possible Substance Use

 

Behavioral Signs

  • Changes in attitude, personality, or values

  • Changes in friends

  • Loss of interest in hobbies, activities

  • Giddiness/silliness

  • Change of habits

  • Difficulty Paying Attention

  • Moodiness/irritability

  • Unusual secretiveness or reclusiveness

  • Changes in school performance

  • Lack of attention to appearance and person hygiene

  • Withdrawal from family and friends

  • Unusual requests for money

  • Strong defiance toward rules and regulations

Physical Signs

  • Changes in eating or sleeping habits

  • Poor physical coordination

  • Red, watery eyes

  • Pupils larger or smaller than usual

  • Flushed, pale, or puffy skin

  • Smell of drug on breath, body, or clothes

  • Nausea, vomiting

  • Chronic runny nose or coughing

  • Shaking hands

  • Extreme fatigue or excessive sleeping

  • Weight loss or gain

 
 
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