| Program Curriculum |
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The Cannabis Education Program, an educational alternative to appearing in court, is designed for youth ages 15-24 who are first-time offenders charged with possession of a small amount of marijuana. The class introduces the participants to extensive information about the effects of cannabis as well as a discussion regarding the development of emotional skills. The objective is to improve social and emotional competence, as well as communication within the family. Offenders are required to schedule an initial interview. This first meeting includes the Gain-Q assessment, a multi-problem instrument that includes substance-abuse screening. The guidelines for the program are then discussed, and the offender is scheduled for either the cannabis class or a court diversion hearing. Occasionally some participants exhibit behaviors that indicate a need for further professional intervention. These individuals are referred for a individual assessment with our licensed clinical supervisor or another therapist of their own choosing. The CEP invites youth to examine both the short- and long-term effects of cannabis use in a group setting of their peers. It is a three-hour class consisting of discussion, interviewing, and instruction along with a significant subjective component. The structure of the class itself begins with the participants interviewing one of their peers and then introducing that person to the class and the instructor. A list of key questions is provided on a white board. After introductions, the instructor talks to each participant about the circumstances that led them to the class. The introduction/interview process is followed by a short break, after which the participants share a marijuana “life line” narrative of their personal use progression. They are then introduced to evidence-based information concerning the risks associated with marijuana use, including:
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