Substance abuse amongst adolescents in Singapore is on the rise. Treatment for adolescent substance users is needed to help them not only to stop abuse but also to regain their previous social functioning that is usually affected by substance abuse. 

At NAMS, we provide an integrated approach towards treatment amongst adolescent substance users. We provide a range of services by psychiatrists, counselors, psychologists and medical social workers. Essentially, an adolescent will receive intensive individual counseling that attempts to guide him to manage substance abuse, and at the same time, to support the need to re-integrate into the community (e.g., regain school attendance). Group counseling is also provided for the adolescent and this focus on lifeskills training and reintegration back to the family and community.

The counselor will also liaise with school counselor, probation officer and most importantly, the family members of the adolescent patient. We strongly encourage parents to be involved in the adolescent’s treatment. Family therapy is also provided for the family members of the adolescent who need supportive care and parenting assistance.

The adolescent clinic is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. A psychiatrist and trained substance abuse counselor will assess all new cases. Our clinic accepts referrals from parents, schools, polyclinics, MCYS, and any relevant agencies. The age range of adolescents is between 13 and 19. Up to date, we have treated problems pertaining to substance abuse and gambling.