Book excerpt: How practitioners can work with young male clients within a gender-responsive treatment program Adverse life events can experience significant impairment in neural development which can lead to weakened critical thinking, diminished emotional intelligence, and increased antisocial behavior. Statistics show that traditional treatment programs are inadequate in helping young men—estimated to account for 68% of all teens struggling with substance use disorder—to achieve sustained abstinence that leads to recovery. A Young Man's Guide to Self-Mastery provides practical guidance on implementing an effective trauma-informed, gender-responsive treatment program that addresses the impact of socialization, adverse life experiences, and substance use. This invaluable guide explains the theoretical foundation and real-life connection between trauma and substance use, and provides clear guidelines and actionable strategies for treating boys and young men challenged by trauma and substance use disorder. Provides guidance on integrating evidence-based interventions, mindfulness techniques, and experiential activities Covers the effects of environmental trauma, gender development awareness, socialization, identity, sexuality, relational violence, and aggression Examines trauma's impact on families, mental health, and comorbid and addictive behavior Discusses the key elements of strength-based approaches and mentoring A Young Man's Guide to Self-Mastery is an invaluable resource for practitioners working with male adolescents in mental health clinics, juvenile justice facilities, and residential and outpatient facilities.