Dual Diagnosis Program
The term dual diagnosis refers to individuals who experience co-occurring mental health disorders with substance-use. An example of a co-occurring disorder could include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, or other emotional or psychiatric problems that co-occur with substance abuse. Dual diagnosis treatment requires specialized training and a history of successfully working with dual diagnosis individuals in order to be able to accurately treat both disorders at the same time.
What To Expect
In a dual diagnosis program, clients work with both addiction and mental health professionals in order to achieve their goal of stabilizing and maintain their recovery. Dual Diagnosis treatment often begins with a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s clinical and medical history.
In Dual Diagnosis programs, clients have consistent daily groups to focus on their psychiatric symptoms, as well as their addictive behaviors. Clients also meet in recovery-focused groups in order to understand the addictive process, manage cravings, utilize community support, and prevent relapse. Treatment methods that are typically practiced in dual diagnosis programs include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and social integration.
In dual diagnosis groups, addiction disorder specialists utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches in ways that match the individual needs of the person recovering from mental illness and addiction. In dual diagnosis treatment, individual one on one sessions with an assigned therapist and psychiatrist are utilized to define goals and address both mental challenges, as well as substance-use challenges.
Most treatment plans are flexible and individualized to each client, meaning that the treatment experience will vary depending upon the unique needs of an individual. Dual diagnosis treatment is more personalized. Common elements of a dual diagnosis program include:
- Medication management
- Dual-recovery focused treatment
- Mood stabilization and monitoring by doctors
- Relapse prevention planning
- Education on coping skills for managing mental health disorders
- Resolution of underlying issues contributing to dual diagnosis
- Wellness and Nutrition Groups
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy
- Recreational Therapy
- Counseling with family or significant others to increase awareness about dual diagnosis
- Thorough discharge planning and continuing care solutions
Outpatient Dual Diagnosis Program
Research demonstrates that treating addiction and other co-occurring disorders separately does not support favorable outcomes. This is why dual diagnosis programs are always recommended for those who struggle with both mental health and addiction.
Outpatient Dual Diagnosis programs are recommended for people who have stabilized their mental health disorder and have completed in inpatient treatment program to address their substance use. Dual Diagnosis programs are designed for individuals who have a substance abuse problem and are exhibiting one or more of the following symptoms:
- Mood Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Phobias
- Panic Attacks
- Prescription Medication Abuse
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Depression Due to Chronic Pain
- Panic Attacks
- Obsessive/Compulsive Behavior
Individuals who complete a dual diagnosis program have a better understanding of their addiction and mental health issues. These individuals have learned how to cope with both disorders and have new tools and skills to prevent relapse, and live a healthy meaningful life.
At LA Outpatient Drug Rehab Los Angeles, we believe in compassionate, quality care. Our highly trained staff of addiction experts will work with you to overcome your addiction. If you are wondering if outpatient treatment at LA Outpatient is right for you, please call us at (818) 696-5019 so we can guide you and answer any of your questions about enrolling in treatment at LA Outpatient.