Lauren Lehr & Ashley Bardi - Teen Thrive Levels of Care and Early Prevention Services for Substance Use Disorder

Substance use among school-aged children and adolescents continues to emerge earlier, creating significant challenges for schools, families, and behavioral health providers. Early identification and intervention are critical in preventing the progression of substance use and reducing long-term behavioral health consequences. However, many systems struggle with recognizing early warning signs and establishing effective pathways for screening, assessment, and treatment.

This session will explore current trends in substance use among school-aged youth and the importance of proactive, early intervention approaches. Participants will learn how structured screening processes, collaboration between schools and behavioral health providers, and development of youth-focused treatment programs can improve early identification and access to care. The presentation will also highlight practical strategies for building coordinated responses between educational systems and treatment providers to better support young people experiencing substance use concerns.

Drawing on real-world program development and clinical leadership experience within adolescent substance use services—including school-based screening initiatives and intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programming—this session will provide attendees with practical insights into creating stronger systems of early intervention that support youth, families, and communities.