When substance use takes hold during the teen years, it can quickly disrupt a young person’s education, relationships, and sense of self. Families searching for a residential program for troubled youth near me often feel overwhelmed by the number of treatment options, and uncertain which will truly help their child make lasting changes.
At Ember Recovery, we’ve seen firsthand that treating only the symptoms of substance use is not enough. That’s why our teen residential treatment in Central Iowa program takes a holistic, whole-person approach. We address not only the substance use itself, but also the emotional, social, and developmental needs that shape a teen’s recovery journey.
Why a Holistic Approach Works for Teens
Adolescence is a critical period of brain development, especially in areas related to decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Substance use during this stage can cause lasting changes in brain function, increasing the risk of long-term health and behavioral issues.
A holistic approach considers the full context of a teen’s life:
- The reasons behind substance use
- Emotional and mental health status
- Family relationships and communication patterns
- Academic progress and personal goals
By addressing all these factors, treatment lays a stronger foundation for lasting recovery rather than focusing solely on short-term sobriety.
Ember Recovery’s Comprehensive Model
Our teen substance abuse treatment in Central Iowa program is built to serve teens ages 12–17 and young adults ages 18–24. From the moment a client joins our program, we work to create a personalized plan that prepares them for success both during treatment and after they return home.
We combine evidence-based therapies, academic support, skill development, and family engagement to create an environment that is structured, supportive, and empowering.
1. Personalized Care Planning
Every teen’s path to recovery is different. That’s why we begin with a thorough assessment of their substance use history, mental health needs, academic status, and personal strengths.
From there, we create a tailored treatment plan that integrates therapy, life skills training, and recovery milestones. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the client’s progress and changing needs.
2. Specialized and Evidence-Based Therapies
We use therapies that are proven effective for teens and young adults, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps clients recognize and change harmful thought patterns and behaviors.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Builds skills in emotional regulation, mindfulness, and healthy communication.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Ensures a safe, supportive environment where clients can process past experiences without retraumatization.
These therapies are provided in both individual and group settings to foster personal growth and peer connection.
3. Continuum of Care: Residential to IOP or Standalone IOP
A cornerstone of our approach is the Continuum of Care, ensuring every client has a clear pathway beyond residential treatment. Many transition into our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) as a step-down option, offering continued therapeutic support with more independence.
Our IOP can also function as a standalone program for those who would benefit from structured care without a residential stay. We currently serve two distinct IOP age groups:
- Teen IOP: ages 12–18
- Young Adult IOP: ages 18+
This structure ensures clients receive the right level of care, whether they are stepping down from residential or starting directly with outpatient services.
4. Family Engagement as a Core Element
Research shows that involving family in treatment improves outcomes and reduces relapse risk. At Ember Recovery, parents and guardians participate in therapy sessions, educational workshops, and family events.
This engagement helps:
- Rebuild trust and strengthen relationships
- Improve communication
- Equip families with tools to support recovery at home
5. Academic Continuity and Life Skills
Many clients in treatment have missed school or fallen behind in credits. Our program offers on-site academic support so students can continue their education without interruption.
We also provide life skills training in areas like:
- Time management
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Healthy coping strategies for stress
These skills prepare teens and young adults for a smoother transition back into school, work, or further education after treatment.
Going Beyond Traditional Therapy
While talk therapy is valuable, we integrate additional services to support whole-person healing:
- Experiential Therapies: Art, music, and recreation help clients express themselves creatively and build confidence.
- Relapse Prevention Training: Clients learn to identify personal triggers, manage cravings, and develop action plans for high-risk situations.
- Dual Diagnosis Support: For those facing both substance use and mental health challenges, integrated care ensures both issues are addressed at the same time.
Addressing the Challenges of Recovery
Recovery is not always a straight path. Teens and young adults may face peer pressure, changing friendships, or self-doubt during the process.
We prepare our clients by:
- Teaching resilience skills and self-advocacy
- Encouraging open communication about setbacks
- Celebrating milestones to build confidence
- Offering alumni and IOP connections for continued encouragement
This approach helps clients see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks.
The Power of Aftercare and Lifelong Support
Completing residential treatment is an achievement, but aftercare is what sustains progress. Consistent follow-up and community support reduce the risk of relapse and help clients stay connected to recovery goals.
Ember Recovery’s aftercare resources include:
- Weekly virtual alumni meetings
- Coordination with local outpatient and IOP providers
- Periodic check-ins from an Ember advocate
These supports ensure that teens and young adults have guidance and encouragement long after leaving our program.
Building a Future Free from Substance Use
At Ember Recovery, our mission goes beyond treating addiction—we aim to help teens and young adults build the skills, confidence, and resilience to create a healthier future.
By combining personalized care, evidence-based therapies, family involvement, and life skills training, we help each young person lay the groundwork for lifelong recovery.
Contact Ember Recovery Today. Learn more about our comprehensive teen and young adult substance abuse treatment and take the first step toward lasting change by visiting Ember Recovery’s contact page.
Sources:
[1] https://www.samhsa.gov/libraries/evidence-based-practices-resource-center
[2] https://library.samhsa.gov/product/tip-57-trauma-informed-care-behavioral-health-services/sma14-4816
[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3191985/
Andrea Dickerson is a Licensed Therapist and Certified Substance Use Counselor who has worked in behavioral health since 1997. Currently, Andrea is the Director of Behavioral Health, overseeing the Ember residential treatment programs and YSS outpatient counseling clinics throughout Central and North Central Iowa. She became a Motivational Interviewing (MI) trainer in 2006 and provides MI trainings throughout Iowa.
Andrea specializes in working with adolescents and their families and enjoys seeing the family relationships grow through therapy. Andrea is also a CARF International Surveyor, going around North America ensuring behavioral health organizations are meeting required standards.
In her free time, Andrea enjoys cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs, as well as being an active member of Soroptimist International of the Americas (SIA), a global organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. She has been a member of the SI of Des Moines club since 2012 and has been actively involved at the regional level, currently serving as Co-Governor of the Peaks to Plains Region.
Through her involvement in SIA, Andrea has been actively involved in the Dream Programs, coordinating annual Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls projects, which give girls the tools they need to achieve their education and career goals, empowering them to break cycles of poverty, violence, and abuse.