To selected schools in Madison County that have an active Student Assistance Program, Chestnut Health Systems will make available Early Intervention Specialists to work with students at high risk for substance abuse but not yet in need of treatment. These positions may be full-time or part-time, based in on the extent of need within the district. There is no charge for these services to either schools or parents.

Services available may include:

• Consultation with Student Assistance Teams and counselors, to assist in identifying and intervening with high risk students
• Screening for substance abuse and mental health issues
• Short-term individual counseling
• Facilitation of life skills education groups and coping skills for special populations
• Collaboration with parents, probation officers, school staff, or community agencies to plan and coordinate interventions with students
• Screening and short-term counseling for students referred by schools for disciplinary policy violations related to substance abuse.

Schools receiving this service will be asked to provide a suitable office space for the Early Interventionist to work in, and access to a phone. Chestnut staff will work with staff of the sponsoring district to achieve successful outcomes with students.