Chemical Health Support

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YSB gives families the tools they need to support their children

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YSB supports the chemical health needs of youth and their families

Substance Use Prevention

Nicotine Vapes, THC cartridges, alcohol and more – the temptations and pressures which teens face expand and evolve. Yet, chemical use is not just a “normal” part of adolescence and cannot be ignored. Teen brains are at greater risk for developing substance use disorders and addiction. However, that risk decreases each year substance use is delayed during adolescence. That’s why YSB’s chemical health programs focus on prevention, education and early intervention.

MEET OUR Specialists

Nikki Stuhr, B.S., LADC, Lead

Nikki Stuhr has worked in the chemical health field since 2011, including both inpatient and outpatient substance use disorder treatment centers. She currently supports students who are experimenting with or affected by substance use and provides education to youth on accurate substance-related information.

Nikki holds a Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Studies with a minor in Psychology and is a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LADC). She serves full-time at Stillwater Area High School.
Fun Fact: Nikki is a big history buff and loves Halloween.

Alaina Sweet B.S.

Alaina Sweet provides individual support and education to students and parents around substance use and prevention. She also leads small groups and classroom presentations.

With experience in youth programming at the YMCA, Alaina holds a Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Studies and a Master’s in School Counseling from UW-Stout.
What Inspired Her to Join YSB: A love for working with youth.

Mali Wampach, B.A.

Mali Wampach works directly with staff and students to promote healthy behaviors and reduce substance use. A former health teacher and outreach specialist, she holds a B.S. in Health Education from UW La Crosse and is licensed in health education.

Mali joined YSB out of her passion for supporting youth in making positive health choices.
Fun Fact: She enjoys spending time with her daughter, shopping, lake days, cooking, and traveling.

Megan Swanson B.S.

Megan Swanson supports middle and high school students across South Washington County through prevention, intervention, and education around substance use. She collaborates closely with school staff and families to create a safe, supportive environment tailored to each school’s needs.

With nearly 18 years in social work, Megan brings experience from hospitals, mental health services, and residential treatment. She holds a B.S. in Social Work from UW–Superior and an A.A. in Criminal Justice from Gogebic Community College.

Inspired by the belief that early support can change lives, Megan is passionate about empowering youth and building resilience.
Fun Fact: Megan is training for her 16th half marathon and plays the clarinet in a musically gifted family.

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Addressing concerns early to prevent them from growing larger in the future

Chemical Health Resources

Youth Service Bureau, Inc. recognizes that substance use and abuse adversely impact a young person’s physical, social, and emotional development. YSB wants to share in the responsibility of addressing this issue because preventing and reducing student alcohol, tobacco (including e-cigarettes), and drug use improves quality of life, academic performance, attendance, classroom behaviors, and peer/peer and peer/teacher interactions. It reduces crime and motor vehicle crashes and fatalities and lowers health care costs.

While the good news is the majority of Washington County youth make healthy choices, we have a responsibility to optimize the health and well-being of all young people.

It can feel worrying and overwhelming to think that your child might be experimenting with substances. You may find yourself wondering, “What can I do?” While there aren’t instant solutions, parents do have an important role and there are many resources available to guide and support you along the way.

"I learned to make better choices, and that even small actions without intention could lead to something serious and bad happening."

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"I have personally attended several programs associated with district 834 schools and have always walked away with a positive learning experience......and an opportunity to engage my kids who were also in attendance. Be proactive, stay informed. "

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"I have stopped participating in drugs on my own and I'm proud of the will power I have to hold myself from bad decisions, along with the help of outside people like my therapist and big sister."

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"I'm proud that I was able to talk about my bad choice and then discuss better ways to handle the situation and better prepared for the future."

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"We appreciate very much your willingness to participate in the Yellow Ribbon events. Your work makes an important difference for the soldiers, their families, and especially their children. Thank you!"

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Cottage Grove

7064 W Point Douglas Rd
Suite #201
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
651-458-5224

Stillwater

6120 Oren Avenue N
Stillwater, MN 55082
651-439-8800

Woodbury

7876 Hudson Rd
Suite #1
Woodbury, MN 55125
651-735-9534

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