Northwest Alabama Mental Health Ctr - Start Program

All-Female Adolescent Residential Care in Fayette County

Northwest Alabama Mental Health Ctr – START Program is a residential substance use treatment program for adolescent girls ages 13–18. Teens live in a supervised treatment home setting with an organized daily routine that emphasizes responsibility and participation. The program is certified by the Alabama Department of Mental Health as an ASAM Level III.5 crisis residential adolescent treatment program.

Therapy, Skills Practice, and Structured Daily Programming

START combines individual, group, and family therapy with substance use education and counseling. Programming also includes written clinical assignments, basic living skills practice, and activity therapy and recreation, helping residents build healthier routines and coping strategies while in a structured environment. Smoking and vaping are not permitted.

On-Site School Support to Keep Teens on Track Academically

Education continues during treatment through an on-site teacher who meets Alabama Department of Education requirements. Schoolwork is coordinated with each teen’s school of origin when available, or replaced with grade-appropriate assignments when needed. GED preparation, ACT preparation, and college preparation support may be available as appropriate, and report cards are sent to the school of origin upon discharge.

Family Involvement and Continuing Care Planning After Discharge

Family therapy and education are part of treatment, and family group and visitation are offered on Sundays once teens become eligible. Before discharge, each client works with the program to negotiate a continuing care plan designed to connect them to ongoing outpatient services at home. Discharge planning includes aftercare referrals, and the program offers outcome follow-up after discharge to support the transition out of residential care.