There is a strong correlation between trauma and substance use disorder (SUD). Substance use disorders and addiction are frequently driven and exacerbated by unresolved trauma—especially childhood trauma.
Treating Adolescent Trauma Exposure
In-Network With Most Commercial Insurers
Clinically reviewed by
Dr. Ian Wolds Psy.D.
Last reviewed on July 16, 2026
Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences
Research has repeatedly identified the importance of early life experiences to people’s health throughout their life. Individuals who have adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) during childhood or adolescence tend to have more physical and mental health problems as adults than do those who do not experience childhood trauma.
Adverse childhood experiences are stressful or traumatic; they include abuse, neglect and a range of family system dysfunctions such as witnessing domestic violence or growing up with substance abuse, mental illness, parental discord, or crime in the home. ACEs are strongly related to the development and prevalence of a wide range of health problems, including substance use disorder.
The original 1995 ACE study was conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with the health maintenance organization Kaiser Permanente. It revealed the prevalence of ACEs. For example, 28 percent of Kaiser participants reported physical abuse and 21 percent reported sexual abuse. Substance misuse and mental illness of a parent and divorce or separation were also common events.
Unprocessed trauma can make it harder to relate to others, may perpetuate negative self-perception, and can result in attempts to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. Effectively treating trauma is crucial to clearing the path for the treatment of other mental health conditions and substance use disorders to establish a foothold in recovery.
Muir Wood Treats Adolescent Trauma
Muir Wood diagnoses and treats unaddressed trauma that may be affecting adolescents and teens. The ability to develop a strong therapeutic alliance between teens and their care providers is essential to creating the openness needed to disclose traumatic experiences so that they can be processed. We also understand that trauma can result from seemingly insignificant events. Every person experiences their world uniquely. What may seem like an insignificant event to one teen may be deeply troubling to another. Understand the context in which young people perceive their environment is fundamental to our ability to successfully partner with our clients and accurately assess their conditions and experiences so that appropriate care can be provided.
Muir Wood Treatment Center Reviews
Read about Muir Wood experiences from a parent who has been through it. Read these and other reviews from real parents of Muir Wood alumni. If you would like to speak to an alumni parent, contact us and we’ll arrange it.
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Everyone has been so helpful and communication with staff was top notch.
LH
Jul 2026
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I felt like Lisa was a great therapist for my son. He seemed to respond well to her and I have seen a lot of growth in him since he had been in the program. I’m sure other staff members had a part in this too
Great therapist; saw real growth in my son
Jul 2026
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Phenomenal wholistic care for the entire family, lots of support
SK
Jul 2026
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We found Muir Wood to be very transparent and more focused on the clients than on just driving there business forward. Our experience elsewhere was not so. Our son made progress after a long spiral downward, and their parent programs were very helpful too.
SL
Jul 2026
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The reason I gave you a highly rated recommendation is because your facility has made my child feel safe, supported, and truly cared for. She has made great progress, and I can clearly see positive changes in her behavior and overall development.
PR
Jul 2026
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Muir Wood Teen Residential Treatment is an incredible facility, focused on supporting the child client, with education and support for parents and family. This is a life saving program for teens struggling with mental health and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
SK
Jul 2026
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Muir Wood is a top notch facility that goes well above and beyond for their Clients and Families. As a Therapist for the last 17 years, I often refer my Families to Muir Wood. Scott Sowle and the rest of his entire Team work magic with their Clients and Families.
LS
Jul 2026
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We couldn't have asked for a better program to support my son with his mental health. Even after discharge they are continuing to support him through the transition to his new provider.
TB
Jul 2026