To find a good certified counselor you can consult your child's doctor, other parents whose children have been treated for drug abuse, the local hospital, a school social worker, the school district's substance abuse coordinator, or the county mental health society. 662-HELP for referrals. Counselors will discuss treatment options such as individual or group out-patient programs, prescription medication, and residential programs. Counselors may also have information on whether a particular treatment center will accept third-party, partial or no payment for services. Counselors may also be able to suggest support groups that can steer families to sources of funding such as local church programs.
Addiction is a treatable disease.
The success of any treatment approach depends on a variety of factors such as the person's temperament and willingness to change, and the extent and frequency of use. Drug addiction is now understood to be a chronic, relapsing disease. Even if it is not apparent at the time, each step brings the person closer to being healthy.