How do you determine the appropriate level of care for an adolescent with a substance use disorder?

This is a very timely question, as the use of substances in childhood and adolescence is an often-overlooked issue. A recent survey of high schoolers revealed that 11% of 8th graders, 21.5% of 10th graders, and 32.6% of 12th graders have engaged in substance use in the past month. (Miech et al, NIDA...

Like all treatment decisions, this depends on a comprehensive evaluation of risk vs. benefit. Much of this answer depends on where you are practicing and what adolescent substance use treatment programs are reasonably available for a particular patient. Considerations include what programs are avail...