Big City Temptations In A Small Town
 

Though he came from a small, rural Minnesota town, “James” (not his real name) was not immune to “big city” life challenges. 

Like many kids, James’ parents had divorced.  And as a result, he experienced a host of conflicted feelings about both parents.  James wanted to escape.  But unlike most 12 year olds, James found escape in drugs and in trouble with the law.  Marijuana was James’ primary drug of choice with alcohol being a close second.  James resorted to stealing and selling drugs to support his addiction. 

Following several attempts to deal with James’ drug issues at home, as well as one failed attempt at a residential treatment facility, the county court referred James to Bar None Residential Treatment Facility.

Bar None’s initial prognosis for James was not encouraging.  Since Bar None is not a primary drug treatment center, there was concern that his drug treatment needs might not be adequately met.  To complicate matters, James resisted therapy and his family refused to be involved due to geographic distance and apathy toward their son’s treatment.

When he first arrived at Bar None, James was quiet, withdrawn and extremely guarded.  He trusted no one with his feelings and emotions.  He didn’t want to tell anyone his family’s secrets, which included parental drug use.  Over time, James gradually felt more confident and less threatened by the Bar None treatment process.  But, therapy continued to be an extremely intimidating experience for James.  Therapy forced James to recognize his emotions and identify productive ways to control his thinking and choices.  His therapist noted that James had an amazing amount of inner strength and the ability to make good choices if he could see hope for the future.

James’ progress at Bar None became obvious when he chose to participate in the Youth Empowerment Program, a peer driven program that stresses empathy and helps residents of Bar None make better choices.  What’s more, he surprised everyone when he became a unit leader of the program despite his young age.  Most of his unit peers were considerably older than James. 

A few weeks ago, James left Bar None with a tremendous amount of self-confidence and new skills to make sound, prudent choices.  He continues to be drug free and is committed to working his aftercare program.

Upon his departure, James’ therapist reflected, “It was very rewarding to see this young man – just entering adolescence – having succeeded to a degree that he did not see possible for himself when I first met him."

For more information: Bar None Residential Treatment Center

To make a Donation