Parenting a teenager is challenging, especially when you suspect they may be struggling with drug use or addiction. As teens navigate the complexities of growing up, they may experiment with risky behaviors or try to assert their independence in ways that can be concerning. For parents, it’s difficult to distinguish between normal adolescent changes and more troubling signs of substance use. The fear of making the wrong decision or missing critical warning signs can feel overwhelming, leaving many parents unsure of how to support their teen during this turbulent time.
Understanding when to seek help is crucial. If you’re noticing changes in your teen’s mood, behavior, or social circles, it might be time to look closer. Warning signs of substance use disorder can include sudden shifts in personality, a decline in academic performance, unexplained financial problems, or new friendships with peers who seem to be a negative influence.
According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 5.3 million individuals aged 12 to 17 (20.6% of this age group) reported having used illicit drugs in their lifetimes.1 This statistic highlights the alarming prevalence of substance use among adolescents and underscores the importance of early intervention and support.
If you suspect that your teen is struggling with substance misuse, Guardian Recovery can help. We offer compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of teenagers and their families. Our New Jersey adolescent program provides a safe, supportive environment where your teen can begin their journey toward recovery. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help your family navigate this challenging time and take the first steps toward a brighter, healthier future.
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Our Newly Constructed New Jersey Youth & Teen Addiction Treatment Center
Guardian Recovery’s Montville Adolescent Center offers comprehensive care specifically designed for adolescents. Our approach addresses not only substance use disorders but also the underlying behavioral and mental health issues that often accompany them. By integrating detox and residential care in a close-knit, supportive environment, we create a space where teens can begin their journey toward recovery with the support of peers and skilled professionals. We emphasize individualized care with a one-to-one staff-to-client ratio and limit enrollment to 29 clients, ensuring each teen receives the personal attention they deserve.
We also understand that education is crucial during treatment. Our center works closely with each client’s home school district to ensure academic continuity, helping teens stay on track with their studies. Fully licensed by the State of New Jersey and holding the Gold Seal of Approval from The Joint Commission, our facility is located in Towaco, NJ, amid a tranquil landscape, providing a peaceful setting designed to support healing. Our dedicated team of licensed therapists, medical professionals, and addiction specialists are committed to helping adolescents build a foundation for a brighter, healthier future equipped with the skills and resilience they need for long-term recovery.
Montville Adolescent Center in Morris County, NJ
Located in the serene surroundings of Morris County, NJ, Montville Adolescent Center provides a safe and supportive environment for teens aged 13 to 17 to begin their journey toward recovery. Our intimate, boutique-style program offers both detox and residential treatment, focusing on more than just addiction recovery. We delve deeper into understanding and addressing the root causes of each teen’s struggles, helping them rebuild their lives with confidence and stability.
At Montville Adolescent Center, we embrace a holistic approach to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment that is uniquely tailored for adolescents. By combining evidence-based therapies with comprehensive medical supervision and compassionate counseling, we address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction. Our team of experienced therapists, medical experts, and addiction specialists work collaboratively to create a personalized treatment experience for every teen, ensuring they develop the coping skills, trust, and relationships needed to thrive beyond treatment. Whether you’re from New Jersey or out of state, our facility is a distraction-free haven where your child can transform chaos into stability and gain the tools they need to lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
Our Teen Treatment Levels of Care
At Montville Adolescent Center, we understand that every teen and their family have unique needs and circumstances. That’s why we meet each child where they are, creating a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan from the very beginning. This plan is not just a set of guidelines but a roadmap that considers every aspect of your child’s situation, ensuring their care is tailored to their specific challenges and goals. Our approach is designed to support teens through every step of their recovery journey, providing you with the confidence that your child is in good hands—and integrating family into the care to foster understanding and long-term recovery.
We offer a range of treatment levels to accommodate the diverse needs of our clients, recognizing that one size does not fit all when it comes to recovery. Each level of care is designed to provide the appropriate support, structure, and therapy to help teens progress in their recovery.
Adolescent Drug Detox
Our adolescent drug detox program provides a safe and supportive environment for teens undergoing withdrawal from substances. Once an individual has developed dependence for a substance, the body often experiences withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped or significantly curtailed. Withdrawal from some substances can be life-threatening when attempted without clinical supervision. With some other substances, withdrawal may not be life-threatening, but it can be extremely uncomfortable, often prompting individuals to resume use to relieve the discomfort. Medical detox for adolescents ensures they are safe and as comfortable as possible during the withdrawal process.
The medical detox process typically lasts 3-4 days, but the duration may be extended based on each client’s needs. During detox, teens receive 24/7 medical care from a dedicated team of nurses, a medical director, and nurse practitioners committed to ensuring their safety and comfort. Our program also offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as needed to help stabilize symptoms and manage withdrawal effectively.
Clients meet with a therapist or counselor daily to address immediate emotional needs and begin recovery. With licensure permitting up to five beds, our detox program emphasizes personalized care and attention, focusing on medical stabilization to prepare teens for the next steps in their recovery journey.
Teen Residential Inpatient Treatment
Our teen residential inpatient treatment program is designed to provide a structured, therapeutic environment for adolescents who need intensive support in their recovery. Typically lasting 28 days, this program aims to emotionally stabilize clients and prepare them for a successful outpatient-care transition. The residential program includes a comprehensive daily schedule that balances therapy, creative arts, recreation, mindfulness, and group activities to foster emotional and psychological healing. Academic support is also a key component, with two hours dedicated daily to help teens stay on track with their schoolwork in coordination with their school district.
Licensed for up to 25 beds, our residential program ensures that each teen receives the individualized care they need, including daily medical check-ins, individual therapy, group therapies, psychoeducation, and family therapy. Our goal is to equip teens with the coping skills and emotional stability they need to continue their recovery journey beyond the residential setting, giving parents and guardians hope for their adolescents’ future.
Additionally, we treat the family, not just the teenager. Our approach involves family therapy sessions, virtual support groups, and psychoeducational programs. These initiatives are designed to repair and strengthen familial bonds and support a sustainable recovery path. In-person and virtual sessions ensure equal access for out-of-state families. We foster open dialogue and collaboration via daily updates during detox and scheduled communication every other day during residential care.
Substance Use Disorder Treatment Therapies
At Montville Adolescent Center, we provide a comprehensive array of therapies to address the diverse needs of teens struggling with substance use disorders. Our approach integrates individual therapy, where adolescents explore personal challenges and develop coping strategies, with group therapies that foster peer support and skill-building. Structured psychoeducation sessions offer critical insights into addiction, while Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) equip teens with practical tools for managing stress and regulating emotions.
We also incorporate creative arts therapy, which allows teens to express and process their feelings in a nontraditional, engaging way. Family therapy is a key component, focusing on improving communication and support within the home. This multifaceted approach ensures that each teen receives tailored, holistic care that addresses their recovery journey’s psychological, emotional, and behavioral aspects.
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Common Substance Use Disorders We Treat in Our NJ Teen Facility
At our New Jersey teen facility, we focus on treating a variety of substance use disorders, paying close attention to current trends and emerging issues. Although adolescent substance use has stabilized post-pandemic—with recent statistics from the Monitoring the Future report showing 10.9% of eighth graders, 19.8% of 10th graders, and 31.2% of 12th graders reporting illicit drug use—there are still significant concerns.2 We address common challenges such as alcohol, nicotine vaping, and cannabis use, which remain prevalent among teens despite some recent declines. Additionally, we are increasingly vigilant about the dangers of opioid misuse, especially with the rise in fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills contributing to overdose risks. By providing tailored treatment and staying updated on these trends, we aim to effectively support teens through their recovery journey.
Treatment of Teen Mental Health & Co-Occurring Disorders
Dual diagnosis, a common condition where a teen faces both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, presents unique challenges that require a nuanced treatment approach. Adolescents often use substances as a way to cope with mental health issues, like depression or anxiety, which can exacerbate their symptoms and complicate their recovery.
Effective treatment must address both the mental health and substance use components concurrently. This typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, peer support, and lifestyle changes. By integrating these elements into a cohesive plan, our program helps teens break the cycle of dual diagnosis, offering them a path to lasting recovery and a brighter future.
Reviews of our NJ Teen Treatment Facility
Our adolescent treatment programs are frequently praised for their commitment to clinical excellence and compassionate care. Families and teens consistently highlight our facility’s supportive environment and the high level of personal attention our credentialed medical, psychiatric, and behavioral health professionals provide. Our dedicated staff, many of whom have personal experience with addiction and mental health challenges, bring a deep understanding and empathy to their work, which greatly enhances the recovery experience.
Feedback from clients reflects the impact of our tailored approach. Teens appreciate the intimate, supportive atmosphere where they receive individualized care and practical tools for sustained recovery. Parents value the continuous support and transparent communication from our team.
Reviews often mention the effectiveness of our evidence-based programs and the meaningful connections forged with staff, contributing to high satisfaction and successful outcomes. At Guardian Recovery, we are proud of the positive difference we make in the lives of adolescents and their families, demonstrating that a brighter, addiction-free future is within reach.
Common FAQs About Our New Jersey Teen Addiction Treatment Program
At Guardian Recovery, we understand that navigating the journey of adolescent addiction treatment can raise many questions for families. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our New Jersey teen addiction treatment program.
Can I contact my child during treatment?
Yes, you can contact your child during their treatment. We encourage regular communication to support their progress and maintain family connections. Our staff will guide you on the best ways to stay in touch.
Can I visit my child during their stay?
Visiting policies vary, but we allow family visits at designated times. These visits are structured to ensure they are supportive and beneficial for your child’s recovery.
What should my teenager bring with them to treatment?
We provide a list of recommended items for your child to bring, including personal clothing and hygiene products. Detailed instructions will be provided before admission to ensure they have everything needed for their stay.
What items are prohibited in treatment?
Certain items are prohibited to maintain a safe and supportive environment. These include most electronics, potentially harmful substances, and other items that could interfere with treatment.
Will my teen be comfortable during their stay?
Absolutely. Our facility is designed to be a comfortable and safe space for teens. We prioritize their well-being with 24/7 supervision and a supportive, caring environment.
Can my child leave the facility during treatment?
While in treatment, your child cannot leave the facility unsupervised. This helps maintain focus on their recovery and ensures a stable environment.
How will treatment affect my teen’s schooling and education?
We coordinate with your child’s school to ensure academic success. Educational support is integrated into their treatment plan, and two hours of academic instruction are provided daily.
Is my child’s treatment confidential?
We adhere to strict confidentiality protocols to protect your child’s privacy and treatment details. Information is shared only with those directly involved in their care.
Can my teen take their medications during treatment?
Yes, we manage and administer prescribed medications as needed, and if needed, staff can prescribe additional medications. All medication changes are discussed with parents or guardians prior to implementation. Our medical team ensures that all medications are safely integrated into the treatment plan.
Will my teen be housed with other adolescents?
Yes, our facility houses teens with their peers, providing a supportive community of individuals who understand their experiences and challenges.
Will my child receive therapy and mental health counseling?
Yes, our program includes individual therapy, group therapy, and mental health counseling to address both substance use and any underlying mental health issues.
What happens after treatment?
After treatment, we provide comprehensive aftercare planning to support your child’s transition back to their new normal. This may include ongoing therapy, support groups, and connection with community resources.
What aftercare options are available?
We offer a range of aftercare options, including outpatient therapy, support groups, and continued family counseling to help maintain recovery and address any ongoing needs.
Teen Substance Use Statistics in New Jersey
The following stats—provided by the 2019 New Jersey Student Health Survey and the 2021 National Survey of Drug Use and Health—provide a snapshot of teen substance use in New Jersey:3,4
- 49,000 people age 12 to 17 reported using illicit drugs in the past month
- 59,000 individuals age 12 to 17 used marijuana in the past year
- 33,000 people age 12 to 17 reported binge drinking in the past month
- 54,000 individuals age 12 to 17 had a substance use disorder in the past year
- 26% of high school students have been offered, sold, or given illegal drugs on school property
- 0.9% of students reported injecting an illegal drug one or more times during their life
- Those 15 or younger comprise the largest age group to report injecting an illegal drug, with 1.7% reporting needle use
- In the 12 months before the Student Health Survey, 11.1% of students attended school under the influence of alcohol or other illegal drugs 1 or 2 times
Our Locations
Our Facilities & Teams Transform Lives
Changing lives by providing comprehensive support and rehabilitation, empowering individuals to overcome addiction and regain control of their health and well-being.
Delray Beach, Florida
Princeton, New Jersey
Denver, Colorado
Largo, Florida
Portland, Maine
Plymouth, New Hampshire
Pine Brook, New Jersey
Contact Us to Learn More
Montville Adolescent Center is committed to providing unparalleled care for clients and their families. And this process starts the minute you reach out to us. Our adolescent admissions process guides you through each step and answers your questions and calms your concerns along the way.
Reach out now to speak with an admissions advisor, who can not only answer your questions and discuss treatment options but also verify your insurance benefits and/or explore other payment options. The call is free and confidential, and you’re under no obligation for your teen to enter treatment. A fresh start is possible, and we can help.
SELF-ASSESSMENT:
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Disclaimer: Does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes, as individual results may vary. Our services are not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis; please consult a qualified healthcare provider for such matters.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023). National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Detailed Tables 1.2A and 1.2B.
- University of Michigan. Monitoring the Future Survey: A Continuing Study of the Lifestyles and Values of Youth. Ann Arbor, MI: Institute for Social Research; December 2023.
- New Jersey Department of Education. 2019 New Jersey Student Health Survey: Drug Use. Trenton, NJ: New Jersey Department of Education; December 2019.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). National Survey on Drug Use and Health. New Jersey.
