Brief Intervention is an evidence-based psycho-educational tool for early-stage mild or moderate users. It is conducted as a confidential, one-on-one two-part series, with an optional 3rd session which includes interested parent/guardians.
Brief Intervention is an evidence-based psycho-educational tool for early-stage mild or moderate users. It is conducted as a confidential, one-on-one two-part series, with an optional 3rd session which includes interested parent/guardians.
In these interactive one-on-one confidential sessions we focus on raising awareness of problems and recommending specific changes or activities. The youth participant leads the way in identifying the positive changes they will make. The goal is for participants to be able to make informed decisions and to choose the best options for their health and safety.
Since 2011, Humboldt County Teen Court has offered this evidenced-based two-part series called Brief Interventions for Substance Using Adolescents. This is an evidence-based psycho-educational tool for early-stage mild or moderate juvenile users. The sessions are offered on an ongoing one-on-one basis with an adult facilitator and based on Motivational Interviewing, Stages of Change, and Cognitive Behavior techniques. Teens and their parents are referred to the Brief Intervention sessions from either a Probation Officer, School disciplinary officer, Police Diversion officer, or Teen Court jury or they can come to the sessions on their own. The focus of the sessions is to address destructive behavior, talk about good decision making and how to implement positive changes.
Brief Interventions for Substance Using Adolescents is on the SAMHSA National Registry for Evidence-Based Programs as Teen Intervene.
Prior to 2011 (from 2007-2011), in partnership with the Humboldt County Public Health Department, Humboldt County Teen Court offered a monthly workshop called “Alcohol, Other Drugs, Driving and the Law” to the community. Teens were referred to this workshop by Probation officers, Teen Court juries, or chose to attend on their own. Though we are no longer working in partnership with DHHS, Brief Interventions continues to build upon the legacy of that program.