Early Intervention Programs
Prevention Resources (PR) has been funded to provide ASAM PPC-3, Level 0.5 Early Intervention (EI) Services for adults with early substance use/misuse, and is a service for individuals at risk of developing substance-related problems, as well as those for whom there is not yet sufficient information available to document a diagnosable substance use disorder. This service will also help those struggling with risky behaviors, how to make healthy decisions, and how to prevent worsening of the presenting problem.
- Goal setting and understanding substance misuse
- Physical effects of drugs, self-medication and alternatives to pain management
- Eight dimensions of wellness, and stress and anxiety management
- Stages of change, toxic trio, healthy relationships
- Communication skills, conflict management
- Risk factors, coping skills and setting goals and wellness plan
All clients will receive linkages to other services needed. This service is available virtually through Microsoft Teams, which is HIPPA -protected, and through Teams, this service can be translated into over 50 languages so this service is available to all in need. Through funding from the Board of chosen Commissioners and Department of Human Services, there is no fee for this service.
For more information, contact kwidico@njprevent.com.
Law Enforcement Adolescent Program (LEAP)
The Law Enforcement Adolescent Program (LEAP) is an early intervention program to serve as a diversion from the legal system. It addresses substance use, family, relationship, and school issues through education and referrals to additional services in the community such as:
LEAP also provides therapeutic support for improving life choices. It engages youth to explore issues related to inappropriate behavior and it provides opportunities for community service.
LEAP Objective
LEAP will decrease the overall number of juveniles from entering the legal court system by providing them and their family with support and assistance.
Who Does LEAP Serve?
Adolescents who have committed minor infractions, where there are concerns related to substance misuse, family issues, relationship or school issues.
Benefits of Completing LEAP include:
– Receive objective guidance
– Reflect on choices
– Gain insight and knowledge
– Gain assistance with goal setting
– Avoid criminal charges and possibly a permanent juvenile record
– Learn to understand yourself and your relationships
– Avoid criminal charges for your child
– Receive professional assistance in addressing your child’s needs
– Opportunity for emotional growth and maturity for your child
– Provides an alternative to criminal charges for minor infractions
– Helps young members of the community maintain a healthy foundation
– Decreases recidivism
– Communicate regularly with the child’s counselor
– Manage community service hours and activities
Forward Focus Program
The Forward Focus Program is a no cost, short-term intervention program for schools to refer students 12-18 years old who have had a violent incident at school, including bullying or under other circumstances.
Prevention Resources will utilize The Structured Assessment of Violence Risk in Youth (SAVRY) to evaluate the risk of violence and plan interventions.
An Evidence-Based Practice program service including an individualized program of LifeSkills programming will be delivered. The length of the program will vary between 6-12 1-hour sessions, based on the risk of reoffending.
Individualized LifeSkills programming
- Goal setting
- Coping Skills
- Stress and anxiety management
- Youth anger management training
- Communication skills training
- Decision making skills training
- Interpersonal skills training
- Life skills training
- Cyber safety/bullying education
Who to call when your youth is having problems
LEAP & VIPA Staff
Karen Widico- kwidico@njprevent.com
Amanda Kovacs- akovacs@njprevent.com
Amanda Kovacs – akovacs@njprevent.com
LEAP is modeled after Project Community Pride of Morris County, New Jersey, which began over 30 years ago through a community wide effort to address the behavioral and emotional needs of youth who became involved with law enforcement.
In collaboration with the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, Law Enforcement, Prevention Resources, and Hunterdon County Safe Communities Coalition.
