Voices was created to address the unique needs of adolescent girls and young women. It encourages them to seek and celebrate their "true selves" by providing a safe space, encouragement, structure, and the support they need to embrace their journeys of self-discovery. The program includes modules on self, connecting with others, healthy living, and the journey ahead. It is used in many settings (e.g., outpatient and residential substance abuse treatment, schools, juvenile justice, and private practice).

Voices is based on the realities of girls' lives and the principles of gender responsivity; it is also grounded in theory, research, and clinical experience. The Voices curriculum advocates a strength-based approach and uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including psychoeducational, cognitive-behavioral, and expressive arts.

The facilitator's guide includes:

• background information about young women, gender-responsive principles, and the theoretical foundation of the program
• information about running the eighteen group sessions that are the core of the program (the structure and content for each topic and activity)
• a program overview and lists of materials needed for the sessions

The participant's journal utilizes a research-based process called Interactive Journaling® which is listed on SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP) website. The summary is available on the NREPP web site. In the context of girls' lives, structured journaling provides an outlet for creativity, personal expression, exploration, and application of new concepts and skills.

About the Author: Dr. Stephanie S. Covington is a nationally recognized clinician, author, organizational consultant, and lecturer. She has developed an innovative, gender-responsive, and trauma-informed approach to the treatment needs of women and girls that results in effective services in public, private, and institutional settings. Learn more about Dr. Covington and her other publications.