Teen addiction and mental health help in Colorado
Programs and counselors that serve teens and young adults (updated November 2026).
Short answer: most teens start with a counselor or an intensive outpatient program (IOP) so they can stay home and in school. Step One lists 35 options for teens in Colorado, by type of care below. In a crisis, call or text 988.
For teens (13–17)
For young adults (18–25)
For parents: helping someone you love · levels of care explained · does Medicaid cover treatment?
Common questions from parents
Where can a teenager get help for drugs or alcohol in Colorado?
Teens (13–17) can get help from outpatient and intensive outpatient programs, counselors and a few residential programs. On Step One, 35 listings say they serve teens, and 27 of those list Colorado Medicaid (Health First Colorado), which covers many young people.
Does my teen need residential treatment?
Most teens start with counseling or an intensive outpatient program (IOP) so they can stay at home and in school. Residential care is for teens who need daily support or haven’t improved with outpatient care. A clinical assessment helps decide.
What if my teen is in crisis?
If they talk about suicide or self-harm, call or text 988 any time, or call 911 in an emergency. You can call for them.
How do I talk to my teen about drinking or drug use?
Choose a calm moment, say what you have noticed and that you care, listen more than you talk, and offer one next step such as seeing a counselor together. Our guide for families has more.
Counts come from listings that say they serve teens or young adults. Confirm ages with the provider. Editorial policy.
