Where to Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Los Angeles

Updated on January 8, 2021

For many people, substance abuse is paired with a co-occurring mental health condition. Depression and anxiety, for instance, are often diagnosed alongside substance abuse. This is called a dual diagnosis. Unlike other rehabilitation needs, those with a dual diagnosis need the proper care and facility that can deal with both illnesses, not just substance abuse.

If you or a loved one have recently gained a dual diagnosis, it is important to find the right treatment for you. For those who live in Southern California, here are some ways to find a dual diagnosis treatment Los Angeles facility near you:

Where to Look

If you are reading this article, then you’ve already thought to look online for dual diagnosis treatments near you. The Internet is one of the best ways to find different treatment facilities in your area, though it is not the only way.

You can talk to the County of Los Angeles Public Health Department. L.A. County includes a Substance Abuse Prevention and Control emphasis within the Health Department. This Department will provide you with tons of information about substance abuse in LA. By talking to a worker, you can get a great recommendation for facilities near you.

Treatment Types

For those who struggle with substance abuse, there are two types of treatment options: inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is when the person resides in a residential rehabilitation center during their treatment. This form of treatment is often referred to as “rehab.” Normally, inpatient treatment is for those who have severe troubles with substance abuse or their other mental diagnosis.

For those with a dual diagnosis, the inpatient treatment should mention specific and intensive care surrounding both illnesses. Most inpatient treatment centers are really only equipped to deal with substance abuse. Still, certain inpatient treatment centers are designed with those who struggle with a dual diagnosis as well.

Outpatient Treatment

In contrast to inpatient treatment is outpatient treatment. This treatment option will be more flexible, offering a variety of options in terms of intensity and time commitment. Sometimes, people who start out in an inpatient treatment will graduate to outpatient treatment as they are better able to handle their illnesses.

Outpatient treatment will include medication management, peer support groups, transportation, therapy, and independent living support.

Factors to Consider When Deciding on a Location

When deciding on a facility, it is important to keep a few factors in mind:

Treatment Type

Consider whether you want inpatient or outpatient treatment. Knowing which option you want will help you narrow down options dramatically.

Services Provided

Look at the different services provided in each facility. The services provided should be targeted towards those with a dual diagnosis. Here are some services to be on the lookout for:

  • Dialectic Behavioral Therapy: Aims to reduce self-harming behaviors.
  • Integrated Group Therapy: Aims to treat symptoms of both illnesses in a group session.
  • Cognitive Behavioral therapy: Aims to minimize problematic beliefs or behaviors that are a symptom of/exacerbate the illnesses.
  • Individual Psychotherapy: Aims to treat behaviors related to both illnesses in a one-on-one setting.

Compassion

Mental illness and addiction are both illnesses, and those who struggle with these illnesses should be treated with compassion. Look for facilities with an emphasis on compassion and treatment, not vindication or judgment.

Cost

Treatment costs can be expensive and will vary by program. If you have insurance, look at whether or not it covers a dual diagnosis treatment and how much it will pay. From there, select an option you can afford.

Final Thoughts

When dealt with alone, mental illness and substance abuse are incredibly difficult to overcome. The challenge of overcoming a dual diagnosis is doubled. Help get back on the right track by putting your health and well being first by finding a good dual diagnosis treatment in Los Angeles.  

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