Related Experiment Videos
Engaging dual diagnosis patients into treatment: the T.E.E.A.C.H. program
1CAB Health & Recovery Services, Inc., Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
|February 4, 2003
Summary
This model engages dual-diagnosis patients in treatment by building therapeutic relationships and exploring their substance use ambivalence. It offers hope for managing use benefits without negative consequences, facilitating treatment entry and change.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Engaging patients with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders (dual diagnosis) in treatment presents unique challenges, especially for those in early stages of change.
- Traditional engagement strategies may be insufficient for individuals in the precontemplation or contemplation phases of treatment.
Observation:
- Patients in precontemplation and contemplation phases often exhibit ambivalence towards substance use, recognizing both benefits and drawbacks.
- A positive therapeutic alliance is crucial for establishing rapport and trust with dually-diagnosed individuals.
Findings:
- The proposed model prioritizes developing a strong therapeutic relationship as the foundation for engagement.
- It facilitates patient insight into the positive and negative aspects of their substance use, addressing their ambivalence directly.
- By acknowledging this conflict and offering hope for alternative coping mechanisms, the model aims to motivate treatment initiation.
Implications:
- This approach can improve treatment accessibility and adherence for hard-to-reach dually-diagnosed populations.
- It offers a framework for clinicians to effectively engage patients experiencing ambivalence about substance use.
- Successful engagement can lead to better management of co-occurring conditions and improved patient outcomes.