Mathew

Client names and photo have been changed to protect client confidentiality.

Mathew was accepted into the program due to involvement with Family Safety and Wellness Court. He had struggled to keep his THC levels down and frequently smoked marijuana with peers at school and home. Mathew stated that when he first came to Hawthorn Heights, he was surprised that the program was not like what he expected. He stated that he thought he would have much less freedom than he did once in the program.

Mathew stated that during his stay, he learned that he didn’t need marijuana or his phone to have fun. Mathew’s team set goals for Substance Use Prevention Education and Educational/Truancy. Mathew attended school and is headed on to the next grade after a long summer break at home. Mathew stated that he learned respect and acceptance while in the program and was able to communicate more effectively with his grandfather—eventually being able to be reunified 7 days earlier than his scheduled discharge date.

Mathew worked on decreasing his THC levels during his stay at Hawthorn Heights. He took weekly urine tests as required by Wellness Court and successfully brought his THC levels down to zero! Mathew stated that he felt proud of himself for consistently bringing these levels down and resisting the urge to succumb to peer pressure. He stated that while being able to use his phone, spend the summer outside of Hawthorn, and do other things is great, he is most excited about going home and feels like he has matured during the 83 days that he was in the program.

When asked what he would like to share with the community about Hawthorn Heights, he stated: “It is a very easy program. You are not locked up, and you still get your freedom. It is easy to get used to. I especially connected with staff member Tori. To the kids who are just coming into the program—I encourage you to just be yourself.”