To effectively support youth with a history of psychoactive substance use, it is crucial not only to respond to the problem itself but also to address its root causes, build trust, and involve the entire family in the process.
This very issue was the focus of a three-day training session titled “Addiction and Codependency in Working with Children, Adolescents, and Families: Theory and Practice,” which recently took place at the Center for Social Support of Children and Families “Ridni.”
Together with psychologist and psychotherapist Iryna Prymiak, the participants thoroughly analyzed modern approaches to working with adolescents who have a history of psychoactive substance use. The specialists learned how to establish trust-based communication and work effectively not only with the child but also with their immediate environment.
Special attention during the event was paid to practice: analyzing real-life cases, discussing complex situations, and searching for effective solutions that professionals can apply in their daily work.
Such training sessions are an extremely vital component in developing a new model of psychosocial support for adolescents. After all, high-quality assistance begins with well-trained specialists who understand modern approaches to dealing with addiction, work without stigmatization, and help overcome the crisis comprehensively.
We sincerely thank Iryna Prymiak for her high professionalism, openness, and readiness to share her practical experience.
The project is implemented by the Lviv City Council, the Child Services Department of the Lviv City Council, and Ridni Foundation, with the support of the Coordination Center for Family Upbringing and Child Care Development and UNICEF.
