Integrated Treatment Group Curriculum for People with Serious Mental Health Conditions Who Use Substances

Area of Science:

• Mental Health and Substance Use Research
• Integrated Treatment Models
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders pose significant risks for poor outcomes and high treatment costs.
• Integrated treatment is crucial for effectively managing these complex conditions.
• Intermediary organizations play a key role in supporting evidence-based practices and program fidelity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a group curriculum workbook designed for practitioners delivering integrated treatment with fidelity.
• To evaluate the workbook's utility in a pilot learning collaborative for individuals with serious mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
• To assess the workbook's effectiveness in helping participants identify and achieve personal goals.

Main Methods:

• Development of a group curriculum workbook for integrated treatment.
• Implementation of a pilot learning collaborative utilizing the workbook.
• Evaluation of the workbook's usability and impact on participant goal achievement.

Main Results:

• Nearly all participants demonstrated progress toward their identified personal goals.
• Group facilitators found the workbook easy to use and engaging for participants.
• Facilitators expressed intent to continue using the group curriculum in regular programming.

Conclusions:

• The group curriculum workbook is a practical and effective tool for supporting integrated treatment.
• The workbook facilitates goal identification and achievement for individuals with co-occurring disorders.
• The positive pilot outcomes suggest broader applicability and potential for improving treatment fidelity and client outcomes.