Adolescent Recovery: The Community Reinforcement Approach Unpacked
We're really interested in changing what they do between sessions, more than even what happens during the sessions.
Picture a teenager battling substance abuse, feeling lost and overwhelmed. In this episode of 'Harm Reduction Radio - HAMS', Kenneth Anderson sits down with Susan Godley Rh. D. from Chestnut Health Systems to discuss a beacon of hope: the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (ACRA). This method stands out for its focus on changing behavior outside of therapy sessions, using techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and family therapy.
Susan Godley shares her insights on how ACRA has been adapted for residential settings and why it often outperforms traditional methods. The program’s flexibility allows therapists to tailor treatments to each adolescent’s unique challenges, fostering an environment of positive reinforcement and relapse prevention. By addressing triggers and developing healthier coping mechanisms, ACRA helps young people not just recover but thrive.
If you’re curious about innovative ways to support adolescents in their recovery journey, this episode offers a treasure trove of information.