NNews January 2025

23 January 2025 Y outh have always been one of the core populations that NewHope Integrated Behavioral Health Care treats for substance use disorder (SUD) andmental illness, and providing such care, especially for SUD, has become increasingly challenging. Significant reductions in referrals during COVID, despite evidence of the increasing need for SUD treatment, promptedNewHope to find newways to reach those who needed help. NewHope began to partner with high schools and colleges to ensure students receive the care they need. These innovative solutions help students overcome substance use challenges and stay on the path to recovery, which empowers them to also achieve academic and other successes. Partnership with Red Bank Regional High School Deidre Lonza, LCSW, LCADC, Chief Clinical Officer at NewHope, spoke with Lori Todd, MA, LPC, ACS, Student Assistance Counselor at Red Bank Regional High School (RBRHS) about how New Hope can get involved earlier, for example, when a student is caught with drugs or tests positive for marijuana. They developed an alternative to suspension by providing counseling during school days to students at high risk of addiction. Counselors are able to provide substance use education and address other factors that may contribute to use, such as social anxiety or isolation. Todd stated, “Ten students were seen throughout the school year for weekly sessions with the clinicians, both virtually and in person in the school building. The students benefited greatly from the service, as demonstrated by the consistent attendance at sessions, the rapport/ trust buildingwith the clinicians, and negative urine drug screens.” NewHope’s ability to engage students quickly helps prevent escalation of substance use problems or even provides rapid access to care if additional services such as withdrawal management, outpatient (OP) and inpatient care are needed. (continued on page 24) New Hope Partners with Schools to Ensure Youth Receive SUD Treatment Deidre Lonza, LCSW, LCADC Chief Clinical Officer NewHope Integrated Behavioral Health Care