Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge - Minnesota Teen Challenge

Comprehensive Residential Treatment

The center runs six neighborhood residential facilities in Minneapolis — three for men and three for women — plus transitional housing and outpatient programs. Licensed residential treatment typically lasts 45–90 days, with a separate 12-month Long Term Recovery Program. Medical detox is available, including residential detox. Care addresses substance use and co-occurring mental health needs, with telehealth access when appropriate.The center also offers a 6–12 month residential program for teen boys with substance use or behavioral issues.

Individualized Care Plans and MAT

Care plans include comprehensive assessments and integrated primary care. Evidence-based approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, relapse prevention, trauma-related counseling, 12-step facilitation, anger management, and the Matrix Model. Medications for addiction treatment (MAT) can be administered as needed to ease cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine-replacement and other smoking cessation supports are available.

Supportive Environment and Daily Life

Residential buildings feature private or semi-private bedrooms, fitness centers, chapels, classrooms, and spaces where clients can visit with children and loved ones. Services include individual, group, and family counseling, couples counseling, substance use education, and health education. Clients can also access case management, mental health services, and social skills development. Recovery supports include self-help meetings, peer mentoring, recovery coaching, housing services, assistance obtaining social services, employment counseling or training, and life-skills development.

Recovery Philosophy and Options for Faith

The center’s mission is to address physical, emotional, and spiritual needs while helping people gain freedom from addiction. Licensed treatment programs are secular, with an option to add faith-based curriculum upon request. The 12-month Long Term Recovery Program is faith-based. Clients are not required to be Christian to enroll but are expected to participate fully in the program’s curriculum. On-site chapels support those who choose spiritual practices. This flexible approach allows clients to select secular or faith-integrated pathways.

Client Reviews

Client feedback for Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge is generally positive, with most reviewers describing meaningful support and long-term recovery outcomes. Many credit the staff and structured environment for helping them with their recovery. A smaller number raise concerns about cleanliness, communication, or the program’s strong religious focus.

• Staff & Care Experience (85% positive): Most reviewers describe staff as caring and supportive, often emphasizing how counselors helped them stay committed to recovery. A few note inconsistent interactions. “She gave me the strength to continue sobriety even when we both knew I still had major issues to resolve.”
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (90% positive): Many clients report major improvements in their lives and long-term sobriety after completing the program. “After 20 years of substance use, I now have nearly six years sober — this place gave me hope and a future.”
• Facility & Environment (65% positive): Opinions about the physical setting are mixed. Some describe the facility as orderly and safe, while others mention issues with maintenance.
• Access & Process (70% positive): Several reviewers say the admissions process was simple and that the program offers opportunities to people in difficult circumstances. Others suggest clearer communication could help new participants understand expectations.
• Support & Community (80% positive): Many clients and family members highlight valuable connections during and after treatment. Continued support from alumni and group involvement are noted as helpful for maintaining sobriety. “It’s a structured, faith-based program with people who truly care.”