On March 17th, 2016, New Vitae The Mitchell Clinic’s J. Todd Barlow, MS and Pam DeHart, MA, LPC, CAC presented a complimentary training titled, “Engagement Strategies for those with Co-Occurring Disorders.” Barlow and DeHart reviewed the challenges associated with services for individuals diagnosed with both a behavioral health and substance use diagnosis, including:
• Difficulties identifying both disorders
• One disorder may serve a secondary role for the other
• Two disorders are often disproportionate in severity
• Both Disorders are surrounded by stigma, minimization and denial
• The disorders are often disproportionate in motivation for change
“Approximately 50% of people with behavioral health challenges also experience a substance abuse disorder,” Barlow said. As a result, coordinated, integrated services are the cornerstone of effective supports. Four strategies were suggested to assist individuals with both a behavioral health and substance use challenge: structure, self-study, goal setting/celebration, and family support. Each of these components play a critical role in New Vitae The Mitchell Clinic’s intensive outpatient services. Services include a half-day partial service that emphasizes education, peer support, and processing for individuals with co-occurring disorders, behavioral health challenges, or substance use.
For additional information on co-occurring supports, please contact New Vitae Wellness and Recovery at 610-965-9021.