Solstice West is one of the few residential treatment centers for adolescent girls that offers specialized therapy for substance abuse and addiction. As a licensed substance abuse counselor, Addictions Program Director Rodd Russell has an extensive background in working with adolescents in educational and residential treatment settings. 

Solstice West understands that traditional 12-step programs often involve labeling oneself as an addict, but Solstice West’s goal is to empower individuals to move beyond such definitions and labels. The approach aims to assist young people in comprehending why they turn to substances as a coping mechanism and equip them with the tools to regulate their behaviors safely. Solstice West creates a supportive and nurturing environment where young people can heal, grow, and thrive. By addressing the underlying reasons behind substance use and providing comprehensive tools for self-improvement, students are empowered to embrace a brighter future.

Says former Solstice West student, Sarah S.: “Thank you so much for helping me figure out what I truly want and realize my passions. For both substances and my education, what I was missing was replacing addiction with passion. I’ve re-immersed myself in the things that I love and things that I am passionate about, and it has changed my life completely.” 

Solstice West focuses on SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) and the Addictive Voice (AV), which together serve as a foundation for growth. Students learn to identify and separate their true voice from their Addictive Voice. Students learn that the Addictive Voice is an expression of their appetite that originates in the biological, animal side of human nature. In severe addiction, the desires related to satisfaction can become confused with the desire for survival. For those struggling with addictions, this mentally links substance use with survival as a healthy adolescent would link food, water, and relationships to survival. 

Students at Solstice West learn that they don’t overcome their addictions by stopping behaviors — rather, they overcome them by focusing on creating a new life where their passions grow and thrive, replacing unhealthy relationships and addictions. 

About Solstice West

Solstice West is a residential treatment center helping adolescents ages 14-18 struggling with trauma, loss, attachment issues, and addictive behaviors. Trauma-focused, relationship-based treatment programs are specialized to support each student and family’s needs with a holistic approach.