Our own unresolved authority problems from our youth sometimes get transferred to our youthful patients, because we are still "covert adolescent rebels." In subtle ways, we encourage the adolescent patient to rebel towards parents, school authorities, and society in general.

Adolescence in my growing up period was truly "Happy Days," the title of a TV show connotating the quality of this life period.

Drug-use is a terminal disease.

A certain group of adolescents evidence clear "druggie" behavior and attributes some time before they actually begin drug use.

If his/her siblings and parents are not treated and he/she is strong enough to continue the recovery, a sibling will take up the "druggie" role.

As the therapeutic relationship is established and progress occurs in problem areas, the therapist can "lead" and "push" the adolescent toward abstract reasoning skill.

Second, the only proven technique for treatment for chemically dependent people involves use of a spiritual program of self-change.