Treating an individual with a dual diagnosis of substance abuse disorder and mental illness can be problematic in several different areas. Because the individual not only suffers from SMI but SUD as well, several factors must be considered before an accurate diagnosis can even be made. It is unlikely that a therapist specializing in addiction counseling or a therapist specializing in clinical mental health counseling would be equip in and of themselves to treat these patients, consultation and combined efforts would be
Treating an individual with a dual diagnosis of substance abuse disorder and mental illness can be problematic in several different areas. Because the individual not only suffers from SMI but SUD as well, several factors must be considered before an accurate diagnosis can even be made. It is unlikely that a therapist specializing in addiction counseling or a therapist specializing in clinical mental health counseling would be equip in and of themselves to treat these patients, consultation and combined efforts would be