Substance Abuse Services

Substance use and abuse in childhood and adolescence is dangerous as it arrests the normal developmental process, can quickly transition into addiction and can contribute to delinquent behaviors and legal consequences. This understanding is basic to CSI’s philosophy. Treatment services include diagnostic assessment by mental health professionals and treatment team staffing will determine if the adolescent meets the current DSM diagnostic criteria for a Substance-Related disorder. Adolescents who are acutely affected by their substance abuse difficulties and need comprehensive evaluations of health issues are referred to more intensive and appropriate services. Following assessment, addiction and substance use/abuse counseling by licensed mental health professionals is provided. Utilization of psychoeducation and referral to a Twelve-Step Program of Recovery may be a part of the treatment process.

CSI is committed to providing community-based treatment to non-acute adolescents as an appropriate alternative to residential treatment and/or hospitalization. The goal is to address major developmental, lifestyle, attitudinal, and behavioral issues that have the potential to undermine the goals of treatment or to inhibit the individual’s ability to cope with major life or developmental tasks; and to assist children and adolescents with substance abuse issues served by CSI to develop and maintain a healthy, chemical-free (abstinent) lifestyle and to improve their quality of life and functional abilities (the exception being responsible compliance with medication prescribed by a medical provider). Because substance use and abuse is systemic in nature, participation in family counseling is imperative to successful treatment of the child or adolescent. The immediate family unit must be committed to the treatment of the child and must become fully engaged in the treatment process. Therefore, every effort is made to involve the entire family in the treatment process.

CSI complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion or sex. For individuals with limited English proficiency or who need communications in an alternate format, translation or alternative formats will be made available free of charge.