AWARE is Penn State Altoona's alcohol and drug intervention program, coordinated by Health and Wellness Center staff, for individuals referred by Student Accountability and Conflict Response, police services, residence life, district magistrates, or by the student themselves.
What is AWARE?
The AWARE program is designed to assist students in looking at issues associated with the use of drugs and/or alcohol. It is a psycho-educational intervention program that provides information regarding campus policy, the effects of alcohol and other drugs, and guidelines for low-risk drinking. It allows the student to look at their use of drugs and/or alcohol in a non-judgmental environment.
How does it work?
All students are initially seen for a confidential individual assessment by the AWARE counselor. Students are assigned to either AWARE I, II, or III based on presenting needs, nature of violation, and drug and alcohol history. Counselor and the student will then discuss the recommended AWARE group and the responsibilities of the student to complete the group successfully. Students are asked to sign a contract, which goes over these responsibilities.
What about confidentiality?
The only information given to referral sources is notification regarding attendance, compliance, and completion. We do not divulge personal information regarding your self-reported drug and/or alcohol use, nor does the referral source have access to your records.
How are the AWARE programs different?
AWARE I is designed for students involved in a minor violation and/or exhibit low-risk use. The program includes participation in two, two hour workshop focusing on examination of use, personal responsibility, education and social norms.
Program fee: $225
AWARE II is for individuals who have had a serious incident or more than one minor violation and/or exhibit patterns of misuse/abuse. The intervention includes three two-hour workshops. The topics from AWARE I are covered, and the students are encouraged to explore their own drug and/or alcohol use at a deeper level.
Program fee: $250
AWARE III is designed for students who are referred again after completing AWARE II or if it is determined that this level of intervention is indicated. These students are experiencing more negative consequences due to their abuse of alcohol/other drugs. The student meets with the Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor who determines the length of the individualized program.
Program fee: $300
All payments are due at the time of the asssessment.