Dual diagnosis was first identified in the 1980s in patients suffering severe mental illness and substance addiction at the same time. This combination remains a major concern for the healthcare industry and requires an integrated assessment and treatment approach in both mental health and substance misuse to overcome. This course covers treatments and management strategies for dual diagnosis. We begin with an overview of dual diagnosis and an explanation of how the brain works as we trace the connection between anxiety disorders and substance abuse.

In order to provide effective dual diagnosis treatment, the two disorders must be integrated rather than treated separately. Such an approach to treatment combines psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, detoxification, medication and group therapy. We explain the basics of contingency management treatment and outline various care models designed to ensure effective care management across drug misuse treatment services.

The course lays out the policies governing dual diagnosis and identifies the penalties for drug misuse under various laws. We provide effective risk assessment and management techniques and our practical tips can help you deal with various issues you encounter in practice. Finally, we walk you through the stages of dual diagnosis treatment. We examine the medications and other types of treatment provided by substance abuse services. This psychology course is ideal for anyone interested in a career in mental health or counselling as we trace the links between substance abuse and mental disorders and explain how to treat both.