Frequently Asked Questions – Youth Substance Use Disorder Outpatient Program
A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
At Seven Counties Services, we know parenting and caring for children can be difficult even under the best circumstances. When a young person is using substances like alcohol, marijuana, e-cigarettes, or other drugs, it can feel overwhelming and frightening. We created these FAQs to help you understand what may be happening and how we can support you:
How can I access the Seven Counties Services Youth Substance Use Disorder Outpatient Program?
Call 502-589-1100 or make an appointment.
How will I know if my child needs help with substance use disorder?
Here are a few things to look for this summer:
• Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy.
• New friend groups they won’t talk about.
• Lying, secrecy, locking doors, or avoiding family.
• Breaking rules more often or risky behavior.
• Mood swings and irritability.
• Weight loss or gain.
We encourage you to read the Substance Misuse Disorder Toolkit to learn more about signs and symptoms, how to talk to your child, and much more.
Do I need to come to treatment with my child?
Substance Use Disorder affects the whole family, so we recommend that parents/guardians participate in individual and family therapy.
What type of services does the Youth Substance Use Disorder Program offer?
Our programs offer personalized treatment plans that can include a 6–8-week Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), individual and family therapy, group therapy, step-down support from a higher level of care, and drug screenings.
Youth also receive support from a caring team of therapists and a psychiatrist.
What age group is this program designed for?
Our program is designed for youth, ages 11 – 25 who are using substances such as marijuana or THC, vapes or nicotine, alcohol, opiates, or other drugs. They want to talk about their use and are referred by the court, school, doctor, or family member.
Are police involved with this program?
We only contact the police in a “Duty to Warn” situation that includes an actual threat of violence.
Where is this program located?
In Jefferson County, Seven Counties Services offers this program at our 914 E. Broadway location. We also offer a similar type of care in Bullitt, Henry, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties.
How long does the initial intake appointment take?
A thorough assessment takes 1 – 2 hours depending on the situation.
Does Seven Counties Services offer these services via telehealth?
Group and initial assessment must take place in person. Seven Counties Services can provide individual and family services through telehealth.
Do you offer inpatient care for youth substance use disorder?
No, Seven Counties Services only offers this program in an outpatient setting; however, we work with local hospitals and healthcare providers to connect youth with our program upon discharge from an inpatient setting.
Can you see my child at school?
No. Currently, we offer services at outpatient centers.
How does it work if my child is ordered to seek treatment by the courts or Child Protective Services?
These youth are treated the same as all other clients. Seven Counties Services needs a signed release of information before sharing anything directly with Child Protective Services. After the assessment, we can provide a letter with our recommendations, which often fulfills this requirement.
How do I get my child into the program after an inpatient hospital stay or emergency room visit?
When you know the date of hospital discharge contact us at 502-589-1100 or make an appointment.
If your child or a child in your care is in crisis, call or text 988, 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and ask for child crisis services.
Reviewed by Brittany Pape, LPCC, division director, Child & Family Services Acute, Downtown
