ASAM Level .5 - Early Intervention
Early Intervention Treatment Program for Individuals With Concerns About Addiction
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) outlines a continuum of care ranging from Level .5 to Level 4 so individuals with addiction and co-occurring conditions may receive comprehensive care. Level .5 is considered “prevention” or “early intervention.” The goal of this level of care is to intervene before an individual develops a substance use disorder.
At The Carter Treatment Center, we provide ASAM Level .5 services through our Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program. This is a free 4-week program held each month to assist individuals and families with a better understanding of risk factors, signs and symptoms of addiction, accessing treatment resources if needed, and receiving support with challenges that arise when substances impact the family. This program is designed to educate and support members of our community that would like to be proactive with their addiction concerns.
Ready to learn more? Call (470) 616-7274 or contact us online today.
Understanding ASAM’s Continuum of Care
The ASAM’s continuum of care is a tiered approach to addiction treatment that starts with early intervention services and ends with aftercare services. This continuum of care is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual and encompasses a range of services and treatments at varying levels depending on the severity of their addiction.
The levels to the ASAM continuum are:
- Level .5 – Early Intervention. ASAM Level .5 – early intervention services are designed to identify individuals with substance use disorders and reduce further harm while offering access to the appropriate level of treatment when necessary. Screening techniques are used to assess an individual’s risk factors, behaviors, and physical signs associated with addiction. Brief interventions may include motivational interviewing which helps individuals reflect on their current behavior to motivate them to seek help or change their habits. Referral to treatment usually involves connecting individuals with the appropriate recovery provider or program based on their needs and risk level. Finally, linkage to recovery support services can offer ongoing assistance for those in recovery such as peer support groups or sober living communities. All of these components work together to provide individuals who may be at risk of developing an addiction with the resources they need.
- Level 1 – Outpatient Treatment Programs. These outpatient treatment programs provide a variety of therapeutic services and activities to help individuals in early recovery overcome their substance use disorders. Individuals enrolled in Level 1 typically receive evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which teaches individuals how to recognize unhealthy thought patterns and develop strategies to better cope with challenging emotions or situations. Other therapeutic options may include group counseling, family therapy, or individual sessions with a qualified mental health provider. In addition, these programs often include case management services that help coordinate the patient's care plan and ensure they are receiving all the necessary resources throughout their treatment journey.
- Level 2 – Intensive Outpatient/Partial Hospitalization Programs. This level is designed for individuals who have progressed beyond early intervention services and need more intensive treatment. This will generally include intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs which offer a variety of evidence-based therapies, medical detoxification, and 24-hour supervision.
- Level 3 – Residential Treatment Programs. This level of treatment is meant for individuals who need 24-hour support in a therapeutic environment. This level of care is most appropriate for those struggling with severe addiction or dual-diagnosis disorders.
- Level 4 – Medically Managed Intensive Inpatient Treatment Programs. Level 4 programs are designed for individuals whose needs cannot be met in a residential setting. This level of care includes medically managed intensive inpatient treatment programs, which provide highly structured environments and around-the-clock supervision.
- Level 4.5 – Aftercare Services. Level 4.5 services provide ongoing support for those in recovery from addiction. This level of care includes aftercare services such as sober living communities or alumni groups that offer peer support and assistance with life goals without the use of drugs or alcohol.
For more information about scheduling and requesting a spot in our program, call (470) 616-7274 or contact us online.
Do I Need Early Intervention Treatment?
The first step to recovery – or developing a damaging addiction in the first place – is recognizing you may have a problem. It can be easy to dismiss signs of a developing alcohol or drug addiction, and it can be difficult to admit you may need help. You owe it to yourself and those who love you to live your best life, and the sooner you address a growing substance abuse disorder, the better. You may want to take advantage of our free ASAM Level .5 – early intervention program at The Carter Treatment Center if:
- You are consistently consuming a harmful drug or are consuming more alcohol than intended
- You develop an increased tolerance to substances
- You notice changes in your general mood or behavior
- You are starting to neglect responsibilities and hobbies
- You are engaging in riskier activities while under the influence
- You are having problems at school or work due to substance use
Our no-judgment Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program can give you the tools and support you need to combat a potential addiction before it takes control of your life. We encourage you to empower yourself and proactively address signs of a substance abuse disorder.
