Dual Diagnosis
Program
Dual diagnosis treatment centers in NJ address co-occurring disorders, including mental health challenges and substance use disorders. Pathways Behavioral Health in Burlington, New Jersey, is a mental health primary recovery center. We provide outpatient mental health services for men and women who are 18 years and older.
If you or someone you know struggles with mental health, there is hope with Pathways Behavioral Health. Our dual diagnosis treatment center can help you address mental challenges and learn healthy ways to overcome them.
What is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis treatment centers in NJ and across the country, are specialized treatment programs designed to address the complex needs of individuals who are struggling with both a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health disorder or two co-occurring mental health disorders (like anxiety and depression).
A co-occurring disorder, also known as a dual diagnosis or comorbidity, refers to the simultaneous presence of one behavioral health disorder (like addiction to drugs or alcohol) and another behavioral health disorder (such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD) in the same individual. These disorders often interact with and exacerbate each other, making treatment more challenging but crucial for lasting recovery.
Dual diagnosis programs in NJ often offer integrated care, combining the different types of behavioral health treatment and mental health services. They aim to treat the whole person, addressing the underlying issues driving both conditions. These programs typically involve a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including therapists, psychiatrists, and addiction specialists, working together to create personalized treatment plans that offer the best chance of recovery for individuals facing the complex challenges of dual diagnosis.
What Conditions Do We Treat?
As a mental health primary treatment center, our dual diagnosis treatment center in NJ focuses on treating cases where two or more mental health disorders are co-occurring. We offer comprehensive treatment for the following mental health concerns.
Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions characterized by excessive worry, fear, and apprehension. Common anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder. People with anxiety disorders may experience physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, and difficulty breathing.
Treatment often involves psychotherapy, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication (antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs), and lifestyle modifications. Learning coping strategies and relaxation techniques can also help manage anxiety.
Depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder, is marked by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Physical and emotional symptoms include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment options include psychotherapy, such as CBT or Interpersonal Therapy, medication (antidepressants), and lifestyle adjustments. Supportive therapies and self-care practices, like regular exercise and maintaining a healthy social network, can be beneficial in managing depression.
Trauma can result from experiencing or witnessing a distressing or life-threatening event. It can lead to a range of psychological responses, including flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional distress.
Trauma treatment typically involves trauma-focused therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or trauma-focused CBT. Support groups and medication, if necessary for symptoms like anxiety or depression, can complement therapy.
PTSD is a specific mental health condition that can develop following exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms include intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of reminders, and heightened arousal.
Treatment for PTSD often includes various forms of psychotherapy, such as prolonged exposure therapy or cognitive processing therapy, along with medication like antidepressants. Early intervention and a supportive environment can significantly aid in recovery for individuals with PTSD.
Why is it Important To Treat
Co-Occurring Disorders With Dual Diagnosis?
Treating co-occurring disorders with dual diagnosis is crucial because it recognizes the interconnected nature of behavioral health disorders. When individuals have two or more behavioral health conditions, each condition can worsen the other, leading to a cycle of deterioration.
Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously, providing a more comprehensive and effective approach to recovery. Without proper treatment, these individuals may be at a higher risk of relapse, hospitalization, and a poorer quality of life. Dual diagnosis treatment aims to improve overall well-being, reduce the risk of complications, and increase the chances of long-term recovery by addressing the underlying factors contributing to both disorders.
What to Expect in
Dual Diagnosis Centers
Assessment and Diagnosis:
The first step involves a thorough assessment to identify the specific mental health disorders that are co-occurring. This assessment helps create a personalized treatment plan.
Medication Management:
For individuals who require medication to manage their mental health symptoms, a psychiatrist or medical professional may provide medication management. This is often integrated with therapy.
Individual Therapy:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based psychotherapies are commonly used to address both mental health and addiction issues. Individual therapy sessions focus on understanding and managing triggers, developing coping skills, and promoting recovery.
Group Therapy:
Group therapy sessions create a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and build a sense of community. Topics may include emotional regulation and life skills.
Family Therapy:
Recognizing the impact of co-occurring disorders on families, family therapy sessions aim to improve communication, educate loved ones about mental health, and provide support.
Holistic Therapies:
Many dual diagnosis centers incorporate holistic therapies such as yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, and meditation to promote overall well-being and stress management.
Education and Psychoeducation:
Clients receive education about their specific disorders, triggers, and strategies for relapse prevention. Psychoeducation helps individuals and their families understand the conditions and treatment process.
Aftercare Planning:
Preparing for life after treatment is vital. Dual diagnosis centers typically help clients develop an aftercare plan that may include ongoing therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies.
Supportive Environment:
Dual diagnosis centers aim to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their challenges, seek help, and work toward recovery without stigma.
Dual-Trained Staff:
Treatment teams often include professionals trained in both mental health and addiction treatment, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of co-occurring disorders.
Continuum of Care:
Treatment plans are often flexible and can adapt to an individual’s changing needs over time. The goal is to provide ongoing support and care.
Call Pathways Behavioral Health Today!
If you’re struggling with two or more mental health challenges our team at Pathways Behavioral Health can help! Call today and begin your personalized treatment plan.
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