Adolescent Addiction

Training Synopsis

Historically mislabeled as a difficult population, this workshop explores the characteristics of adolescent addiction, the recovery pitfalls, and effective treatment interventions that will engage your young clients.

Core Ideas
Adolescent Addiction is a distinct problem, with biopsychosocial elements unique to this age group, which indicates there are unique treatment implications. This training explores the unique elements of adolescent addiction and discusses the best ways to both prevent and treat it. While the majority of the training addresses substance use, other addictions - gambling, sex, internet, fitness - will be included.

​Adolescent Addiction is often guided by cultural, political, and social forces. Adolescent’s are often judged for wanting attention, submitting to peer pressure, or making “stupid” choices, depending on the culture in which the teen is a member. The degree that the addiction is accepted is often based on these influences. This training includes a discussion of these influences, not only in understanding how teen addiction develops, but also how recovery can be snagged or supported by these influences.

This training relates to direct practice, as it aims to help the clinician work with adolescent clients in addressing their addictions. This training topic connects to diversity by discussing how different cultures impact the development of the addiction and how different cultures may affect recovery efforts.

Learning Objectives

1.Participants will learn the difference between the adult and adolescent brain and the effects of addiction on the adolescent brain.
2.Practice the clinical interview, asking updated questions specific to this sub-population.
​3.Troubleshoot common problems in treating adolescents and how to address them effectively to give your clients the treatment they need.

Suggested Reading List

          Hilarski, M.C. (2005). Addiction, assessment, and treatment with adolescents, adults, and families. New York: The Haworth Press, Inc.
          Himelstein, S., & Saul, S. (2015). Mindfulness-based substance abuse treatment for adolescents. New York: Routledge.
          Naar-King, S., & Suarez, M. (2011). Motivational interviewing with adolescents and young adults. New York: The Guilford Press.
        Rosner, R. (2013). Clinical handbook of adolescent addiction. West Sussex, England: Wiley & Sons.