Dual Diagnosis Treatment
What is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of addiction and another mental health condition, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or a personality disorder.
Our Dual Diagnosis Treatment Philosophy
When treating any mental health concern, but in particular dual-diagnosis issues, we believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach and what works for one person may not work for another. It is important during the initial sessions for us to work collaboratively to understand how the PTSD, depression, or another co-occurring condition is associated with and potentially exacerbating one’s substance use concerns. We utilize a variety of evidence-based practices during treatment depending on the client’s specific presenting problems.
How can COPE help?
Our goal at COPE is make sure we get a thorough understanding of your concerns during the initial session to make sure we can create a treatment plan that is suited for your specific needs. This treatment plan may include individual therapy, group therapy, couples or family therapy, and a discussion about other community resources that can augment treatment. Treatment approaches available at COPE include , Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure among others. To hear more about what treatment may be right for you, please contact us for more information.
FAQ
What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment and Who Needs It?
Dual diagnosis treatment is designed for people who experience both a mental health condition and substance use concerns at the same time. This may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders alongside substance use. People benefit from dual diagnosis treatment when addressing one issue alone has not led to lasting improvement.
How Do Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions Complicate Addiction?
Mental health symptoms and substance use often influence each other. Anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms can increase substance use as a way to cope, while substance use can intensify emotional symptoms over time. Treating only one condition often leaves the other untreated, which can make recovery harder to sustain.
What Assessment Is Done to Identify Co-Occurring Conditions?
Assessment typically includes a detailed clinical interview that explores mental health symptoms, substance use patterns, medical history, and life stressors. Clinicians look at how symptoms interact over time rather than isolating them. This comprehensive approach helps guide an integrated treatment plan.
How Does Therapy Integrate Care for Both Conditions?
Integrated therapy addresses mental health and substance use together rather than separately. Sessions focus on understanding how the conditions interact, developing coping skills that support both areas, and reducing patterns that reinforce symptoms. This approach helps clients build stability across emotional and behavioral domains.
Do Clinicians Coordinate Medication and Psychotherapy?
Yes, when medication is part of care, clinicians coordinate medication management with psychotherapy. This collaboration helps ensure that medications support therapy goals and that emotional or behavioral changes are considered when adjustments are made. Coordination supports safer and more effective care.
Can Dual Diagnosis Treatment Support PTSD and Addiction Together?
Yes. Dual diagnosis treatment can support people experiencing PTSD and substance use concerns at the same time. Therapy helps clients develop emotional regulation and coping skills before addressing trauma-related experiences, allowing both conditions to be treated in a paced and supportive way.
How Does CBT or DBT Play a Role in Dual Diagnosis Care?
CBT helps address thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to both substance use and emotional distress. DBT supports emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and impulse control. These approaches are often integrated to help clients manage triggers, cravings, and emotional reactions more effectively.
What Outcomes Do People See From Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
People often report improved emotional stability, reduced substance use, stronger coping skills, and better understanding of how their symptoms interact. Progress may also include improved relationships, increased confidence, and greater consistency in daily functioning. Change tends to build over time rather than all at once.
What Support Is Available After Initial Treatment?
Ongoing support may include continued therapy, group support, medication management, or step-down care. Aftercare planning helps clients maintain progress and navigate future stressors with confidence. Continued support is viewed as part of long-term well-being rather than a setback.