Continuing care for the chemically dependent adolescent: Aftercare or afterthought?

Abstract

This paper explores the various types of treatment programs and strategies currently available for treating chemically dependent adolescents who completed some type of residential treatment and are now returning to the community, home and school. Special issues as well as common themes are also discussed. The main objective of this paper is to stress the importance of this phase of treatment in the recovery process in order that aftercare does not become an “afterthought.”