Adolescent
Substance Use
Disorder Program
(Ages 12 – 17)
Why We’re Expanding
While national surveys show a historic decline in teen drug and alcohol use, many young people still experiment, and the risk of relapse is greatest during early adolescence. That is why the Sarah Jane Bentley Foundation (SJBF) is committed to making a difference early. Our new Youth Recovery Program is specifically designed for teens ages 12 to 17 who are experimenting with or struggling to manage substance use. By providing early, family-centered support, we aim to change the course of a young person’s life before addiction takes hold
What the Program Provides
| Core Service | What It Looks Like at SJBF | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Assessment | Developmentally tailored medical, psychological and social history, including co-occurring mental health screening | Integrated plans address the fact that many teens entering treatment have additional mental health needs. |
| Evidence-Based Therapies |
• Family-Based Therapy (FBT) • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Motivational Interviewing (MI) • Contingency Management |
These psychosocial approaches are the recognized gold standard for adolescent SUD care. |
| Academic & Life-Skills Support | Coordination with schools, tutoring referrals and executive-function coaching | Keeps young people on track academically and reduces treatment drop-out. |
| Peer & Recreational Groups | Sober social activities, art and music therapy, and a teen-only recovery peer group | Builds healthy friendships and alternative coping strategies. |
| Family Workshops & Coaching | Weekly education sessions, boundary-setting tools and a 24/7 parent helpline | Engaged caregivers are strongly linked to sustained recovery. |
| After-Care & Relapse-Prevention | Six-month step-down plan, digital check-ins and alumni activities | Continued connection dramatically lowers relapse risk. |
Our Treatment Philosophy
- Whole‑person, trauma‑informed care – addressing trauma, mental health and substance use together.
- Stage‑of‑development alignment – techniques tailored to early, middle and late adolescence.
- Family & community partnership – parents, guardians and schools are part of the care team.
- Cultural humility & inclusion – welcoming youth from every background with respect.
A Typical Journey
- Call or Referral – our adolescent intake coordinator schedules an evaluation within 48 hours.
- Initial Assessment (Week 1) – a multi‑disciplinary team creates a personalized roadmap.
- Intensive Outpatient Phase (Weeks 2‑8) – 9‑12 hrs/week of therapy plus academic and family sessions.
- Transitional Phase (Weeks 9‑16) – reduced therapy hours; introduce community and peer supports.
- After‑Care (Months 4‑12) – monthly check‑ins, relapse‑prevention workshops and ongoing family coaching.
How to Enroll
Self/Family Referral: 717‑412‑4914 | info@sjbentley.org
Professional Referral: Fax recent clinical notes to 717‑888‑9274
Insurance & Funding: We accept most private and Medicaid plans and maintain a scholarship fund for uninsured families.
Early intervention can rewrite the story of adolescence. If you’re worried about a teen in your life, reach out today — you do not have to navigate this alone.