Adolescent Wellness Academy (AWA) offers comprehensive
outpatient programs ideal for adolescents and teens ages 13-17, specializing in mental healthcare and co-occurring disorders such as substance use disorder (SUD). Their holistic programs offer an individualized blend of evidence-based 1:1 and
group therapy, creative experiential activities and academic support with a family-centered approach. Their multidisciplinary team works closely with clients and their loved ones, helping teens build resilience, foster self-discovery and awareness and strengthen peer and family relationships in an environment promoting connection and healing.
The therapeutic day program at AWA is their highest level of care, also known as a
partial hospitalization program (PHP). Their day program offers a residential-like structure while allowing clients to remain living at home, with 8 hours of treatment per day, 5 days per week. The therapeutic day program consists of 1 hour of 1-on-1 therapy and 4 hours of evidence-based group sessions per week, integrating 2-3 hours of on-site academic support with an education coordinator to ensure teens keep up with their schooling. Additionally, clients have a weekly psychiatric assessment to check on progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Nutritional counseling and support is available as required, along with lunch, snacks and drinks provided daily.
Teens are typically in PHP for 4-12 weeks, and then transition to an
intensive outpatient program (IOP). IOP is an afternoon program, treating teens experiencing mild symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues or SUD. The after-school program meets for 3 hours per day, 3-5 days per week, consisting of 2 daily group sessions. Experiential and creative activities such as music, yoga and mindfulness are offered, with designated study spaces equipped for teens to work on homework assignments. Teens and their families typically spend 10-16 weeks in IOP.
Treatment at AWA strongly encourages family involvement, emphasizing the importance of parents and loved ones being involved in their teen’s recovery process. AWA offers a weekly parent support group, monthly multi-family group support meetings, and clinical services for crisis management. Additionally, families at AWA may participate in regular
family therapy sessions.
Evidence-Based Context: According to SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2023), approximately 48.7 million Americans aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in the past year. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) emphasizes that treatment programs combining behavioral therapy with medication-assisted approaches show the highest rates of sustained recovery. Facilities like AWA Miami provide structured pathways to evidence-based care.
Sources: SAMHSA NSDUH 2023, NIDA Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment (4th Ed.)