Heroin addiction treatment for teens and adults

Stopping heroin use safely almost always requires medical support, since withdrawal can be severe and relapse carries a high overdose risk, especially if tolerance drops during a period of abstinence. Treatment typically combines medication for opioid use disorder with behavioral therapy, and having naloxone on hand is an important safety measure during recovery. Because heroin is often mixed with fentanyl or other substances, professional support gives someone the best chance at quitting safely.

Yes. Heroin is an opioid, and opioids act as central nervous system depressants, slowing brain activity, breathing, and heart rate rather than speeding them up like stimulants. This depressant effect is part of why a heroin overdose can be so dangerous, as breathing can slow down enough to become life-threatening.

Yes. Naloxone (often known by the brand name Narcan) can reverse an opioid overdose, including one involving heroin, and is available over the counter in most states without a prescription. Because heroin is sometimes mixed with fentanyl or other substances, its strength can be unpredictable, making naloxone an important tool to have on hand for anyone using heroin or living with someone who does.

If you're a parent or caregiver trying to identify a substance you've found, heroin typically appears as a white or brown powder, though processing can affect its exact color. It can also appear as black tar heroin, a sticky, dark substance that results from less refined processing methods. If you're concerned about something you've found, a drug identification test kit can help confirm what it is, and it's worth seeking guidance on next steps.

Start with an honest, judgment-free conversation about what you're noticing and why you're concerned. Avoid ultimatums or shame, which tend to increase secrecy rather than openness. Every situation is different — the right approach depends on the person's history, circumstances, and where they are in their relationship with use. If you're unsure how to help or the situation feels complex, speaking with a clinician yourself can help you navigate it. When the time is right, encourage them to talk to a doctor or mental health professional, and let them know that effective treatment options exist.

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a level of behavioral healthcare for people who need more support than traditional weekly therapy but don't require inpatient care. The goal is to help people manage mental health and substance use challenges while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. Our IOP is delivered to clients directly at home through a virtual platform. Each program runs 9–12 weeks and includes 10+ hours of care per week. That time is split across individual therapy and group sessions, with family therapy and psychiatry available when clinically indicated. Scheduling is flexible, with morning, afternoon, and evening options to fit around school, work, and other commitments.

Charlie Health is in-network with more than 600 insurance plans nationwide, including most major commercial plans, TRICARE, and Medicaid in select states. Most clients (60%) pay $0 out-of-pocket. To verify coverage, contact the Admissions Team directly or fill out the online intake form.