The developmental model of recovery is viewed as a gradual procedure that involves mastering undertakings that are emotional, psychological, social, and recovery associated. These undertakings may begin at an easy level and gradually become harder, eventually leading to recovery.

The first phase is the pretreatment phase, which takes place when the adolescent enters treatment. In this phase, adolescents will face results from drug use that may be disagreeable or controlling over their lives. They will also begin to see that the problems in their lives are caused by their substance use and feel a certain amount of emotional pain, which allows them to decide how much effort they will put into the treatment procedure.

The next phase is the initial stabilization phase, which will take place within the first couple of weeks of the treatment process. In this stage the methods of use will alter, the adolescent will recover as a result of abstinence, and other impulsive behaviors will detox.

Next is the early recovery phase, or phase I. In this phase, the adolescent will begin to become aware of triggers, emotional struggles, and verbalize feelings, as well as learn how to change behavior in positive ways.

The early recovery phase II is an extension of phase I, followed by the middle phase and then the advanced phase, where the adolescent resolves old detrimental behaviors and habits and begins to develop spiritually and emotionally.

The maintenance phase is last and involves a pattern of growing that continues throughout the adolescent's life.