Purpose
The Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA) to alcohol and substance use treatment is a behavioral intervention that seeks to replace environmental contingencies that have supported alcohol or drug use with healthy community activities, relationships and behaviors that support recovery. Doing activities in the community that help build relationships with peers and a healthy, clean and sober lifestyle is a central focus. A positive relationship between a youth and his or her caregiver is a central focus. Positive relationship skills, communication and problem solving are taught, reviewed and practiced.
A-CRA is for adolescents with substance abuse issues as well as adolescents with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health issues.