Substance Use Treatment
Substance use can be difficult to recognize - and even harder to talk about.
At the Children’s Center of Hamden, our Substance Use Treatment & Recovery Services provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where youth and young adults can be honest about what they’re experiencing and begin building a path forward.
What We Offer
We provide evidence-based substance use treatment designed to meet youth where they are — offering both structure and flexibility based on individual needs.
Services include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Family involvement and support
- Substance use assessments and screening
- Ongoing recovery and aftercare support
SSTRY: Substance Screening, Treatment, and Recovery for Youth
SSTRY (Substance Screening, Treatment and Recovery for Youth) is a structured, 8-month program designed to support meaningful, lasting change.
SSTRY combines consistency with real-world application:
- First 4 months: In-office treatment, including individual therapy
- Next 4 months: Community-based support, with therapists meeting youth where they are
This model allows youth to build skills in a structured setting, and then apply those skills in real-life environments, with continued guidance and support.
Program At-A-Glance
Ages: 12-24
Program Length: 8 months - 4 months in-office & 4 months community-based
Services: Therapy, assessment, recovery support
Approach: Evidence-based, trauma-informed, youth-centered
Family Involvement: Available and encouraged
Not Sure Where to Start?
A SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) is a one-time screening designed to identify early signs of substance use and determine whether additional support may be helpful.
This quick, evidence-based approach can:
- Help identify risk early
- Provide immediate guidance and support
- Connect youth and families to the right level of care, if needed
SBIRT is often the first step for individuals who are unsure where to begin.
A Different Approach to Treatment
Substance use is often connected to stress, trauma, mental health challenges, or life circumstances. Our approach reflects that.
Nonjudgmental and Person-Centered
We create a space where clients feel safe being honest - without fear of punishment or stigma.
Focused on Real-Life Skills
Participants build practical tools for managing stress, decision-making, and navigating peer pressure.
Connected to Mental Health Support
Substance use rarely exists in isolation. We integrate behavioral health care to address underlying needs.
Built Around Relationships
Strong connections with clinicians, peers, and families are central to the recovery process.
Testimonials
Signs It Might Be Time to Talk to Someone
It’s not always easy to know when substance use has become something more.
It may be time to reach out if you’ve noticed:
- Changes in mood, behavior, or energy
- Increased secrecy or withdrawal from family and friends
- Declining performance in school or work
- Shifts in peer groups or social circles
- Difficulty stopping or cutting back
- Using substances to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotions
Even if you’re unsure, talking to someone can provide clarity and support.
How to Get Started
Not sure where to start? That’s okay - we can help you figure it out. We offer:
- Initial assessments and screenings
- Guidance on the appropriate level of care
- Support navigating insurance and next steps
Referrals can come from families, schools, healthcare providers, or community organizations.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you care about may need evaluation or treatment, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Our team is here to listen, answer questions, and help you take the next step — at your own pace.