Choices
What is "Choices"?
The Eaton Substance Abuse Program "Choices" is an early intervention program provided through the Eaton County Juvenile Justice Millage and Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission. This program is intended for 13-17 year old adolescents who have experimented with alcohol, marijuana, or other illicit drugs.
Who is Eligible?
An adolescent is eligible for this program if they meet these qualifications:
- Live in Eaton County
- Between 13-17 years old
- Experimented with alcohol, marijuana, or other illicit drugs
- Youth who have misused prescription or over-the-counter medications will also be considered eligible for the program
How Does the "Choices" Program Work?
The "Choices" Program consists of a Youth Education Series and Parent Forum Sessions.
An individual who meets the eligibility requirements will be scheduled for an intake session with a counselor through the Eaton Substance Abuse Program (ESAP). A parent or caregiver will be asked to accompany the youth to the intake session.
Once the intake process is complete, the participant is enrolled in the next available "Choices" group session. Each group meets for two-hour sessions for five weeks. The parent will attend parent sessions at the same time.
Youth Education Series
Along with the group work the participant will receive a youth workbook and a family workbook for parents to follow what their children are learning.
Sessions include such topics as:
- Changes: What changing means and skills for changing
- Responsibility: Whom do you count on and who counts on you?
- Plan for success: What is your alternative route?
Parent Forum Sessions
The parent forum sessions will be provided by the Eaton Intermediate School District/Prevention Program Services. The parent session will be scheduled to correspond to the youth sessions and involvement of at least one parent/caregiver will be required. The sessions help with parenting skills related to adolescent development and concerns.
Session topics include:
- Teen development, risk factors, and protective factors
- Family meetings, parenting styles, making decisions, solving family problems
- Refusal skills and supervision that maintains strong family bonds
