CADS – Altered High Youth Service (AHYS)

Who We Are

Altered High Youth Service (AHYS) is the specialist youth alcohol and drug service within Auckland CADS – Community Alcohol and Drug Services, part of Te Whatu Ora Specialist Mental Health & Addictions.

The team includes youth-health professionals skilled in supporting rangatahi aged 13–19 years who have alcohol or drug use issues or concerns, or who are impacted by a whānau member’s addiction.

Support is offered across the full spectrum of need – from mild to complex – and tailored to each young person’s goals through individual counselling, group options, and whānau-inclusive approaches.

Where We Are Based

Mobile service covering all of Greater Auckland, from Wellsford / Te Hana in the north to Bombay / Port Waikato in the south and Helensville in the west.
Clinicians meet young people wherever works best – at school, in community rooms, or online.

Our Service

• Community-based service (Non-residential)

Duration of Stay

• No set time limit – engagement can be short- or long-term depending on what’s helpful

What We Offer

• Specialist support for all levels of substance use, motivation, and goals
• Confidential face-to-face, phone, or online counselling and group sessions
• Help to reduce the impact or risks of alcohol and drug use on wellbeing
• Specialist counselling for young people affected by a parent / whānau member’s addiction
• Youth-friendly, developmentally appropriate interventions
• Whole-of-wellbeing approach – support also for mood, mental health, social and family issues
• Harm-reduction model approved by the Ministry of Health
• Motivational and strength-based approaches – focusing on each young person’s values and strengths
• Relapse-prevention planning and strategies for healthy coping
• Support for co-existing mental health challenges in collaboration with SMHAS services
• Weekly online group (Wednesdays) and tailored community groups on request
• Parent / Caregiver Whānau Group: weekly evening online sessions (+ individual support if needed)
• Inclusive of Rainbow youth – dedicated clinician and specialist support
• Cultural competence and consultation with Te Ātea Marino (Māori service) and Tupu (Pasifika service)

How to Get in Touch

• Referral / Enquiry Line: 027 462 4580 | Free call 0800 845 1818 (ask for the Youth team)
• Email: alteredhigh@waitematadhb.govt.nz
• Website: www.alteredhigh.com
  (Online Referral Form available on website)
• Operating Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (Monday to Friday)

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