Substance Abuse Prevention
The Dr. J. Michael Harding Center for Health and Wellness (CHW) provides educational opportunities and guidance on substance abuse issues for the campus community through outreach. Substance abuse and dependence prevention objectives are reached by providing the necessary resources to students for informed decision-making. In addition to the efforts on behalf of the Dr. J. Michael Harding Center for Health and Wellness (CHW), the Coordinator of Substance Abuse Services is responsible for collaborating with the campus community on substance abuse initiatives, as well as evaluating the efficacy of existing prevention programs.
Substance Abuse Assessment
When a student is found responsible for an Alcohol Policy violation, the student may be referred for a substance use assessment (see Alcohol Policy in Community Standards for further information) . The Dr. J. Michael Harding Center for Health and Wellness (CHW) works in conjunction with the Office of Community Standards, Rights, and Responsibilities to provide these assessments to enrolled Marietta College students. The assessments and treatment recommendations are strictly confidential and are not part of students’ academic records. During the 60-minute clinical interview portion of the assessment, the counselor will ask the student questions about substance use patterns, family history, friends, other social support, and any other psychological concerns. At the end of the assessment, the student and the counselor will work together to assess the risk of a current or potential alcohol/drug problem and identify ways the student can reduce their risk of any additional policy violations and negative consequences form alcohol/drugs. The counselor may also suggest additional services if they seem appropriate.
If a student is referred by the Office of Community Standards, Rights, and Responsibilities and does not come to their scheduled appointment, they may be required to schedule their substance abuse assessment with a designated community provider or drug and alcohol treatment facility and incur any associated cost. Alcohol/drug assessments do not have to be completed at the CHW. Students may contact the CHW at (740) 376-4477 for a list of designated community practitioners and drug and alcohol treatment facilities where they may seek treatment at their own expense.
Group Treatments
The Center for Health and Wellness provides two classes, Choices About Alcohol and Marijuana Education, for students contemplating making changes in their substance use. Members will evaluate their substance use and how it impacts their academics, relationships, and personal goals. Students attending either class may be self-referred, referred by parents, or by the Office of Community Standards, Rights, and Responsibilities. Any information disclosed in the class about the misuse of legal or illegal substances is strictly confidential.