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Helpline

    Our Research and Technical Assistance Teams

    Our research and technical assistance work is led by interdisciplinary experts dedicated to reviewing the latest science on addiction, surveying attitudes, examining the impact of substance use and developing evidence-based solutions to improve how we prevent and treat substance use disorders.

    Early prevention

    The Science and Technology of Early Prevention (STEP) team is developing and testing technology-driven interventions targeting early risk factors for adolescent substance use, currently with a focus on addressing substance use among pregnant and postpartum women.

    Primary prevention

    This team works to inform families, health care practitioners, educators and policymakers about best practices for preventing adolescent substance use. They are exploring and implementing research-based approaches to improve how families, schools and communities prevent substance use and addiction among youth.

    Treatment & recovery

    The team behind our Jaime Inclán Clinical Training Academy is advancing the science and practice of quality treatment for adolescent substance use through research and provider training.

    System improvement

    Our System Improvement Institute evaluates the effectiveness of the current addiction treatment system, provides education and training, and works to implement new strategies for improving care.

    Health law & policy

    We are shaping public policy by conducting research in support of data-informed, evidence-based prevention and treatment approaches for substance-related problems.

    Product development

    We are building and testing the next wave of digital interventions for individuals, families and providers to overcome addiction. We focus on optimizing low barrier interventions such as brief assessment and feedback, automated text messaging, e-learning and chat support to maximize engagement and curation based on personal needs.