Adolescent Chemical Dependency Services

Miller-Dwan Behavioral Health provides confidential chemical dependency services for adolescents ages 12-18. We encourage active family participation and follow the philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon. Flexible programming includes inpatient stabilization, outpatient services, a family program and follow-up care.

Our program is designed for adolescents who are having problems with drugs and alcohol. They may be experiencing social deterioration and impaired judgment.

Admission criteria include:

• Evidence of drug and alcohol use such as increased tolerance; continuous and progressive use of alcohol and drugs; and ideas of suicide when intoxicated.
• Living in or associating with the drug culture
• Poor performance in school
• Family conflict and behavioral problems

• Prior outpatient treatment has failed
• There are physical complications or vulnerability
• Thoughts of suicide increase or there’s a suicide attempt
• Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol or drugs
• Daily use or abuse of alcohol or drugs
• Significant depression or psychosis

ASSESSMENT

Assessment is the first step for individuals facing the challenges of chemical dependency. We complete a comprehensive evaluation and assessment process to determine the appropriate level of care for each individual.

OUTPATIENT PROGRAM

Our outpatient program is based on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and emphasizes education and treatment for teens and their families. The course of treatment is tailored to each adolescent’s needs.

Level One is an intensive day outpatient program that meets five days each week. Level Two meets one day a week for four weeks.

Treatment components are:

• Assessments
• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Lectures
• Family program, which meets monthly
• School program with teacher contracted from the Duluth School District
• Recreational therapy
• Spiritual group/chaplaincy
• Discharge planning
• Follow-up care
• Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous