Banner Health has launched a new adolescent substance abuse and mental health program, which will operate out of Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West. This adolescent substance abuse and mental health program is funded by a contract with Maricopa County Department of Public Health, which is a steward of funds from the Opioid Settlement Funds.
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The tailored program is aimed to help teens ages 13-17 and will include an intensive outpatient program setting with three-hour group-based therapy sessions three times per week for nine hours each week.
During that timeframe, there will be an emphasis on proactively managing mental health/well-being and addressing challenges involving chemical dependency and substance abuse. The program will provide participants with specialized support from both professionals and peers, fostering a holistic approach to overall wellness and recovery.
“Whether teens are dealing with mental health struggles, substance abuse, chemical dependency, or all three, we want the community to know we’re here for them,” said Jerimya Fox, director of Banner Behavioral Outpatient Services. “Through comprehensive outpatient care and empowering group therapy sessions, we stand committed to providing the support for teens who need it most, ensuring a path toward lasting recovering and resilience.”
Through intentional thought, behavior and lifestyle changes, participants will learn to cope with everyday pressures and harmful temptations. To help reinforce these skills, family therapy will be provided weekly, helping parents and guardians better understand how to support their teens.
“We’re excited to witness the positive transformation this program brings to the lives of teenagers in the West Valley,” said Maricopa County Division Administrator Carmen Batista. “The work Banner Health is doing is going to ensure a healthier and brighter future for adolescents across Maricopa County, and we look forward to the program’s impact on our youth.”
A portion of the settlement funds is also going to the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center, whose medical experts answer calls for the Opioid Assistance and Referral (OAR) Line, the first such resource in the nation. The OAR Line helps those on the frontlines of combatting the opioid epidemic by expanding training and education to providers, first responders, and the community on substance abuse disorders, overdose prevention, and naloxone administration. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, call the OAR Line at 1-888-688-4222.
No referral is required for the mental health and substance abuse program. To sign up for or learn more about the program, please call 602.254.4357 or click here.
