Step Up Step Down (SUSD) is a voluntary program that provides youth and their families/caregivers with intensive treatment and community support to assist reintegration into home, school, and community.
SUSD is a Recovery Alberta program supporting youth aged 13-17 who have significant mental health and/or addiction concerns. They are engaged in care from a clinician in the community and they need additional support.
The program includes a high level or caregiver participation to help youth succeed at home, in school and in their community.
There are two streams for this program; Live-in treatment and Intensive outpatient.
Live-in treatment: Youth live onsite in a safe and therapeutic environment. Program staff support youth and family while they work towards their treatment goals. Considered a family treatment program, SUSD requires the active involvement of at least one family member or caregiver. Typical stay is approximately 3 months.
Intensive outpatient program: Youth will continue to live at home while additional programs and supports are provided to the client and their caregivers. Includes group sessions and psycho-educational programming for both youth and family/caregivers. Program length may vary but will typically last 8 weeks.
Drop in groups: Virtual group sessions and psycho-educational programming are provided for both youth and family. Does not require full application package, however a clinician referral is still necessary.