Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

In light of many recent advancements within the field of addiction treatment and behavioral health science in general, there has been much light shed on the need for co-occurring disorder treatment, also referred to as dual-diagnosis disorders.  According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMSHA) 2012 Survey on Drug Use and Health, it was shown that roughly 8.4 million adults in the U.S. suffered from co-occurring substance and mental health disorders.  It is also believed by many addiction treatment professionals that this is a low estimation and that if properly diagnosed, that number would be substantially higher.

Understanding Co-occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorder treatment is a process of which is necessary for those with concurrent mental health and addiction related disorders.  A few common examples of such disorders would be:

Those suffering from untreated co-occurring disorders are at a dramatic disadvantage when it comes to the likelihood for overcoming drug addiction, alcoholism, process addictions, eating disorders and so forth.  In essence, the presence of the mental health malady literally undercuts the already difficult process of recovery, thus rendering the patient almost entirely helpless within the recovery process.  We reiterate however, that this is only applicable for those with untreated co-occurring disorders.

Treating Co-occurring Disorders

For those in need of co-occurring disorder treatment, the process begins with an in-depth initial assessment by a team of professionals, which is led by a highly trained and licensed psychiatrist.  This process involves a number of steps, including family history, personal history, past medical issues, personal and secondary accounts of behavior, health screening, etc.

The initial assessment is designed specifically to diagnose the presence of concurrent mental health issues, and to lay the foundation for a treatment regimen designed to best position the patient for future success, both in recovery and life in general.

Co-occurring disorder treatment can involve a number of components, including psychotropic medications, nutrition, holistic approaches, physical fitness, therapy and process groups, etc.  As each patient is properly diagnosed, and individualized treatment plan is created with each of these elements in mind.

Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment at Vantage Point

Vantage Point has created a number of highly regarded regimens within the co-occurring disorder treatment process.  Our ability to parse out and address each individual underlying component, whether substance or mental health related, ensures a higher likelihood for long-term success on the part of the client.

Additionally, we offer a very broad array of professionals on staff which enables us to develop highly integrative and effective Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP) plans. IOP programs aim to provide a part-time yet intensive schedule for individuals dealing with co-occurring disorders. Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programs allows for patients to go on with their regular home and work lives, while attending group programs, therapy, life coaching meetings, and other programming part-time here at Vantage Point.

Our ultimate objective is to essentially layout a step-by-step course of treatment, of which is based entirely around the patient’s unique clinical and behavioral needs.  In doing so and in witnessing their personal journey back to health, we are constantly reminded of the good work we do and draw great pleasure from seeing personal successes and families reintegrating with one another.

For more information on Vantage Point Treatment Center, and to speak with a qualified admission counselor or to address any questions, please contact us 7 days a week at (424) 402-5224.