Consumer Perspectives on Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment

Abstract

A series of four focus groups were conducted with 35 clients with a co-occurring diagnosis of mental illness and substance abuse to obtain their perspectives on treatment. Four content areas emerged. System barriers, such as poor therapeutic environment, difficulties navigating complex systems, and poor integration of services were most frequently mentioned. Factors facilitating recovery included consumer strengths, a positive therapeutic environment, and helpful recovery tools. Consumer challenges refer to obstacles in the client's life including the long-term chronic nature of their illness, self-medication of psychiatric symptoms, and limited personal resources and options. Specific treatment needs, such as treatment from “similar others,” one-on-one counseling, and time management were identified. The results demonstrate that a client-centered approach is preferred. Limited system resources continue to be a barrier. Improved coordination of services and cross-training on co-occurring diagnosis are needed. Consumers recognize the long-term nature of their problems and have strengths for dealing with them.