Expired Adolescents and Substance Use: A Relational Context for Change [Online]

Adolescent substance use can trouble, confuse, and deeply worry clinicians. The intersection of the complex developmental period of the teenage years with risky drug and alcohol use represents a pivotal moment for families and for therapy. Participants will be invited to explore their assumptions and premises about adolescence, substance use, parents, and how identities of privilege and subjugation shape the experience and treatment of teen substance use.

In this workshop, we will provide attendees with a meaningful understanding of a relational treatment approach, including specific techniques to engage adolescents and family members in family therapy.

Learning Objectives:

• Clinicians will learn engagement strategies for adolescents and families in family therapy for substance use disorders (SUD)
• Participants will become familiar with an overview of family therapy techniques for inviting change in meaning and change in behavior for adolescents and families
• Attendees will explore how self of the therapist and identity/systems of oppression impact family therapy for adolescent SUD

Presenter:

Molly Bobek, is a licensed clinical social worker and family therapist. She supports the clinical components of Partnership to End Addiction’s research projects aiming to support the adoption and sustainability of family therapy for adolescent substance use. Molly is also on the faculty at the Ackerman Institute for the Family and maintains a private practice working with families, couples, and individuals.