Treatment in California
Adolescent Marijuana Addiction Treatment in California
Our adolescent marijuana addiction program in Malibu, California can help your family restore connection, and find healing.
Marijuana remains the most commonly used illicit substance among adolescents in the United States. According to recent data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 30.2% of high school seniors report having used marijuana in the past year, with 6.6% reporting daily use.
These numbers are particularly concerning as research indicates that adolescents who begin using marijuana before age 18 are 4-7 times more likely to develop a substance use disorder compared to those who delay use until adulthood.
With THC potency in cannabis products rising dramatically over the past decade, today’s teens face increased risks of developing dependency and experiencing negative impacts on their developing brains.
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Understanding Adolescent Marijuana Addiction
Adolescent marijuana addiction presents unique challenges compared to adult substance use disorders.
The teenage brain is still developing—particularly the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation.
Regular marijuana use during this critical developmental period can disrupt normal brain maturation, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairments, mental health issues, and diminished academic performance.
Many teens begin using marijuana as a coping mechanism for underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or social difficulties.
Others may start due to peer pressure or simple curiosity, unaware of how quickly recreational use can escalate to dependency. At Beachside Teen, we recognize that effective treatment must address not only the substance use itself but also these root causes and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Our Marijuana Addiction Treatment Programs for Teens in California
At Beachside Teen, we offer a comprehensive continuum of care designed specifically for adolescents struggling with marijuana addiction. Our evidence-based programs in Malibu, California provide the structure, support, and therapeutic interventions necessary for lasting recovery.
Residential Treatment
Our adolescent residential treatment program provides a safe, structured environment where teens can focus entirely on their recovery journey. With 24/7 supervision and support from our experienced clinical team, residents engage in intensive individual therapy, family therapy and more.
Partial Hospitalization Program
For teens who need intensive treatment but not round-the-clock care, our Partial Hospitalization Program offers comprehensive therapy for 6-8 hours daily while allowing adolescents to return home each evening.
Intensive Outpatient Program
Our IOP provides structured treatment while allowing teens to maintain their school schedules and family commitments. Adolescents typically attend treatment 3-5 days per week for 3-4 hours per session.
Educational
Programming
We believe that continuing education is vital to adolescent development and future success. Our accredited academic program ensures that teens don’t fall behind in their studies while in treatment.
How Can I Tell My Teen Is Using Marijuana?
Recognizing marijuana use in adolescents can be challenging, as many signs overlap with typical teenage behavior changes.
However, certain patterns may indicate substance use issues. Look for sudden declines in academic performance, changes in friend groups, decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities, and unusual secretiveness.
Physical signs may include bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, inappropriate laughter, poor coordination, and the distinctive smell on clothing or in their room. Behavioral indicators often include mood swings, irritability, decreased motivation, possession of drug paraphernalia, and missing money or valuables.
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How Can I Approach My Teen About Marijuana Abuse?
Approaching your teen about suspected marijuana use requires careful timing and a thoughtful approach. Choose a moment when you’re both calm and have privacy and uninterrupted time to talk. Begin by expressing your concerns from a place of love rather than accusation.
Use specific observations about behaviors you’ve noticed rather than making sweeping judgments or assumptions. Listen actively to your teen’s perspective, acknowledging their feelings even if you disagree with their choices.
Avoid lectures or scare tactics, as these typically prompt defensiveness rather than openness. Instead, ask open-ended questions that encourage reflection: “What do you feel you get from using marijuana?” or “What concerns do you have about your use?”
Share factual information about risks specific to adolescent brain development rather than general warnings. Throughout the conversation, emphasize that your concern stems from love and caring about their future.
If your teen acknowledges marijuana use, avoid reacting with anger or punishment. Instead, express appreciation for their honesty and work together to establish next steps. If they deny use despite strong evidence, don’t push for a confession. Instead, express your continued concern and openness to talk when they’re ready.
Remember that addressing substance use often requires multiple conversations rather than a single intervention.
When To Seek Help For My Teen
Knowing when your teen’s marijuana use has crossed from experimentation to a problem requiring professional intervention can be difficult. The transition from casual use to dependence often happens gradually, making it challenging for parents to identify the tipping point.
Consider seeking professional help if you notice any of these warning signs:
- Escalating use despite consequences – Your teen continues using marijuana even after facing school disciplinary actions, legal troubles, or significant family conflict
- Significant personality changes – You observe your teen abandoning previously enjoyed activities, withdrawing from family, or displaying uncharacteristic secrecy or aggression
- Academic problems – Grades are dropping, classes are being skipped, or there’s a sudden loss of interest in school success that was previously important
These behavioral changes are often accompanied by:
- Mental health concerns – Increased anxiety, paranoia, emotional disconnection, or expressions of hopelessness
- Risk-taking behaviors – Driving while high, combining marijuana with other substances, or engaging in dangerous activities while impaired
- Failed attempts to quit – Your teen has expressed a desire to stop or cut back but has been unable to do so
Trust your parental instincts—if you’re concerned enough to be wondering whether your teen needs help, it’s worth consulting with professionals. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes, and it’s always better to address potential issues before they escalate. Remember that seeking help doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a parent; it means you’re being proactive about your child’s health and future.
Why Beachside?
At Beachside Teen, we don’t just treat adolescents—we partner with families for comprehensive healing. We recognize parents as the most important influence in their teen’s life and essential allies in the recovery process.
Our family-centered approach ensures that parents receive education, support, and guidance throughout treatment and beyond.
Parents can expect regular updates on their teen’s progress, participation in family therapy sessions, and comprehensive training in communication skills, boundary-setting, and relapse prevention strategies. We provide parents with the tools to rebuild trust, navigate conflicts constructively, and create a home environment that supports long-term recovery.
Our clinical team works closely with families to develop personalized aftercare plans that address the specific challenges each teen may face upon returning home. We maintain ongoing communication with families after discharge, offering support during the critical transition period and connecting them with community resources for continued care.
More: What Parents Can Expect
Tja-Zsa Hower, LCSW
Primary Therapist
Last Updated on March 13, 2025
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At Beachside, our programming meets the highest standards for quality adolescent healthcare.
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Find Help For Your Teen Today
Don’t let marijuana addiction define your teen’s future. Contact Beachside Teen today for a confidential assessment and discover how our comprehensive treatment programs can help your family find the path to recovery. Our admissions counselors are available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through the enrollment process.
Take the first step today. Contact us to learn more about our program or verify your insurance.
Together, we can help your teen build a brighter future.