Early Intervention Program
Prevention Resources (PR) has been funded to provide ASAM PPC-2, Level 0.5 Early Intervention (EI) Services for Individuals 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.
To register, email rdenlinger@njprevent.com. 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 abuse, 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
early intervention for youth program (EIY)
Early Intervention for Youth Overview
Early Intervention for Youth (EIY) is an additional resource program with support and services that School Officials may use as an alternative or in addition to discipline. Education and referrals to additional services in the community are provided throughout the program such as:
- Life Skills, goal setting
- Counseling Educational groups
- Substance use assessments
- Drug screening (required, despite referral reason)
- Parenting programs
- Anger Management
- Cyber Safety
EIY is designed as a 4-8 week program. However, it may be extended if the situation warrants it.
Parents/Guardians and the youth must sign EIY contracts and adhere to the guidelines of the program. If the youth or parents/guardians are deemed noncompliant with the program, they will be referred back to the school and/or to a higher level of care.
Early Intervention for Youth Objective
The EIY program aims to decrease the overall number of youth being suspended from school and being further reprimanded in the future.
Who does Early Intervention for Youth Serve?
The EIY program is targeted to “at-risk” youth within Hunterdon County that have shown school officials reason for concern. EIY is a comprehensive prevention and diversion design that aims to divert youth at the earliest opportunity into treatment and community-based service alternatives.
Who to call when your youth is having problems
LEAP & EIY Staff
Karen Widico- kwidico@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.
