Assessment & Screening
What brief screening tool is used to assess adolescent substance use risk?
CRAFFT.
The CRAFFT screening tool is an evidence-based health questionnaire designed to identify substance use, substance-related driving risks, and potential substance use disorders in adolescents and young adults, typically aged 12 to 21. It is recommended by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
This evidence-based therapy helps Maria examine the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This social factor is one of Maria’s primary risk drivers for substance use.
What is peer pressure/peer substance use?
Regular engagement with this school professional can strengthen support.
What is a school counselor?
Identifying situations where Maria is most likely to use represents this relapse concept.
What are triggers?
This type of interview explores family dynamics, peer influence, and developmental context.
What is a biopsychosocial assessment?
This family-centered model is effective for adolescent substance use and involves caregivers directly.
What is Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT)?
Maria reports using substances to reduce emotional tension, which represents this risk category.
What is self-medication for anxiety?
Participating in sports, clubs, or structured activities serves as this type of protective factor.
What are prosocial activities?
Teaching Maria how to decline peer substance offers is an example of this skill.
Refusal Skills & Assertiveness Training (Shortened Bullet Points)
Say “no” clearly with confident body language.
Give a brief reason for refusing.
Walk away if needed.
Use the “broken record” technique—repeat your refusal calmly.
Change the subject or redirect.
Suggest an alternative activity.
Use light humor to defuse pressure.
Avoid high-risk situations when possible.
Team up with a supportive friend.
Ask a trusted adult for help if needed.
Training & Practice (Shortened Version)
Role-play common pressure scenarios.
Use affirmations to strengthen confidence.
Prepare responses and a plan ahead of time.
Stay calm and use a firm, steady tone.
This school-based measure helps evaluate how substance use is affecting Maria’s academic engagement.
What is an academic functioning assessment?
This brief approach helps increase Maria’s motivation for change.
What is Motivational Interviewing (MI)?
Her strained communication with her stepfather represents this family risk element.
What is family conflict/poor attachment?
Similar to Erin Khar's ACE (Adverse Childhood Experience) in Strung Out.
Maria’s willingness to discuss her substance use with her mother is an example of this.
What is treatment readiness or openness to support?
Increasing emotional regulation to address anxiety reduces relapse risk through this method.
What is coping skills training?