In our last post, we looked at all the questions you should ask when looking for a drug rehab program for your son as he moves away from substance abuse and toward balance and stability. Here are the things that you should be looking for in the answers to those questions and what the rehab program should be able to offer your son and your family:
- Extensive neuropsychological examinations at the start of treatment to diagnose and asses all active issues that may make it difficult for him to excel in recovery
- Therapy options that have been proven to be effective in the treatment of teen boys through rigorous research
- Family-based treatment that includes family members in the process of recovery
- Academic support, including assistance in acquiring a GED if necessary or working with teachers to get your son back on grade level
- Directed focus in therapy options that helps patients deal with stressors and challenges that are unique to teens and to boys growing to adulthood (e.g., dating issues, finding employment, heading to college, dealing with parents’ divorce)
- Mental health treatment for all co-occurring mental health disorders and/or symptoms
- Treatment that equally addresses both the substance abuse issue and any co-occurring mental health disorders
- Mental health treatment professionals who specialize in treating teens
- Support staff trained in how to deal with teens and/or addiction issues
- Personalized care that offers each patient a unique treatment plan based on his specific issues and goals for recovery
- Individualized attention including multiple personal therapy sessions and check-ins with counselors each week
- Regular recreational and outdoor time
- A relapse-prevention focus in treatment
- The ability to adjust the length of the stay if more time in treatment is warranted
- Education and support for the family during and after rehab
- Assistance with the transition from residential care back to the home environment
- Long-term aftercare and follow-up support after rehab to ensure stabilization in recovery
There’s quite a bit to remember when looking for a good rehabilitation program. Anne Fletcher’s book Inside Rehab: The Surprising Truth About Addiction Treatment – and How to Get Help that Works offers a great deal of assistance to parents as they consider their options and even offers a list of subject areas that parents should discuss with a potential rehabilitation program before enrolling their child.
Learn more about Muir Wood and find out more about how we can provide your son with the intensive rehabilitation and treatment he needs to make progress in recovery when you contact us at the phone number listed above today.