The need for adolescent chemical abuse treatment remains constant in the COMTREA service area. The United Way helps fund the program.

We have made substantial changes to our program which make it easier to obtain psychiatric services for these children - as the majority of them have dual diagnoses (mental health and substance abuse issues). This ability allows us to deal with the whole person and not just the drug-affected part.

The Athena C-STAR residential treatment program is located in a peaceful, serene, home-like environment. The program is structured and intensive. The residential groups have a max of eight consumers in any one group. This allows for one-on-one attention and more intensive treatment that focuses on the consumer's individual needs and recovery. The program allows the consumer to explore why they use chemicals and helps them to develop new ways to handle the stresses they have in their lives. The consumer also has the opportunity to explore new, sober activities and experience things in a safe environment without the worry of their current stressful environment.

The Athena C-STAR Adolescent Treatment Program:

Therapy is based upon the systems approach of therapy. We understand that it takes the consumer's whole system to change in order for the consumer to lead a successful, sober life. Chemical Abuse and Dependancy is a disease that adversely affects the mind, body and spirit of the abuser. This is why family-involvement in the consumer's treatment is strongly encouraged.          

While a consumer at the COMTREA Athena C-STAR Program , our consumers’ strengths and limitations are professionally assessed.  An individualized treatment plan is developed. The whole person is considered.  Tools to achieve the identified goals include alcohol and other drug education, individual and group therapy, time for self-reflection, physical exercise, and spiritual renewal. Of special importance is the identification of “triggers” which interfere with recovery once the consumer has returned home back to their environment. 

We believe:

·       Solitude allows reflection

·       Reflection promotes healing

·       Healing assists recovery

·       Recovery saves a life

·       Recovery is possible for anyone

In addition to following an evidenced-based treatment regimen, clients also have access to psychiatrists, case managers, counselors, social workers, and psychologists through the COMTREA Children and Youth Division.  Addiction is also a family disease.  Families who live close enough to participate in weekly family sessions on site are encouraged to do so. Those families who do not live near the Athena C-STAR Program will be given referrals for family therapy to agencies close to their respective homes to help prepare the family for the successful return of the consumer.

Those completing the program may transfer to outpatient programming in one of our locations or to a center located near their home with which we have developed a recovery plan. 

 The Athena Campus provides an environment which encourages

introspection.

SPECIALIZED GIRL’S  PROGRAM        

ATHENA  ~  A  Healing Place for Girls

Since 1974, Comtrea has brought hope and healing to hundreds of women through the Athena Center.  But today, more women than ever are seeking treatment for addiction to alcohol and other drugs.    Just as the best environment for care has been provided at Athena for over 30 years, Comtrea is taking another giant step forward in meeting the special needs of female alcoholics and addicts with its outreach to adolescent girls.  Comtrea will lead the way by providing care for women in body, mind, and spirit.  Athena offers a safe, healing, respectful, comfortable, serene and inviting atmosphere for adolescent females.  Comtrea has developed enhanced services for them.

We offer a comprehensive, cohesive recovery program that will provide a nurturing environment from admission through continuing care. We offer support for adolescents in their journey to find and enjoy a sober and safe lifestyle.    Some services offered include mental health and wellness programs, all-female lectures, a weekly women’s health clinic, parenting education, and female-specific continuing care models.

Research has provided information on how the unique nature of female’s addiction impacts treatment.  Females become addicted much more quickly, become intoxicated faster, and develop alcohol-abuse related diseases sooner as a direct result of differences in hormones, metabolism, and smaller body size.  Addiction in adolescents is frequently accompanied by mental health related issues such as depression, anxiety disorder, eating disorders and post traumatic stress disorder.  With the high prevalence of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, the complex needs of females require integrated care.  Women are more likely than men to be victims of violence, rape and other violent crimes.  Young female alcoholics have increased rates of accidental death and death from suicide, and middle-aged women drinkers substantially increase their risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis.

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