When a person struggles from a dual diagnosis disorder in the context of addiction treatment, it means they are struggling with a substance abuse disorder and an underlying mental illness. At Pine Tree Recovery Center we specialize in dual diagnosis detox and intensive outpatient treatment, providing each of clients with a combination of evidence-based detox methods, medication assisted treatment options, behavioral therapies and psychiatric services. Our team of industry professionals have combined decades of experience treating addiction and mental health, providing a program of recovery that focuses on more than physical stabilization and a safe, pain-free withdrawal.

We believe in a multi-phased approach to dual diagnosis recovery. In most cases, medically monitored detox is an important initial step. During this phase of the process the client undergoes withdrawal and is introduced to a range of recovery resources and services, including behavioral therapy. We recommend anyone who has been struggling with addiction and an underlying mental illness immediately transition into a higher level of care. In some cases, the best option is an intensive outpatient treatment program like the one we offer. In other cases, a more intensive level of care is required. We remain dedicated to providing each of our clients with the most focused and individualized treatment planning available while equipping them with the tools they need to maintain solid sobriety for years to come.

Reasons Why Addiction & Mental Health Disorders Co-Occur:

• Common risk factors contribute to the development of addiction and mental health disorders – Both addiction and mental illness are largely attributed to genetic predisposition. In fact, an estimated 40 to 60 percent of a person’s vulnerability to addiction is directly linked to their genetics. Other common risk factors include high stress levels, environmental factors, unresolved childhood trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. When it comes to both disorders, similar areas of the brain are affected.
• People who struggle with an undiagnosed or untreated mental illness might turn to drugs and/or alcohol as a form of self-medication – It is very common for those who have been struggling with an untreated mental illness to attempt to alleviate their symptoms with chemical substances. For example, a person who has been suffering from social anxiety might turn to alcohol in an attempt to make social situations less stressful and panic-inducing. Over time, this person might become reliant on alcohol to socialize in any capacity, and eventually develop a physical and psychological dependence.
• Taking certain chemical substances can lead to the development of mental illnesses – Chronic substance use leads to changes in the brain, and when these changes occur certain mood disorders can develop. For example, a person who abuses a prescription stimulant for an extended period of time might develop an anxiety disorder. If the substance abuse disorder is resolved quickly there is a good chance the mental health concern will resolve as well. However, if the addiction lasts for a significant period of time, changes to the brain might become permanent and the mental illness could persist even after the person in question gets sober.

Treatment Options for Dual Diagnosis Disorders

The right treatment options for you or your loved one depends on the severity of the substance abuse disorder and the type of underlying mental health concern. For example, treatment for a combination of alcoholism and depression is going to look significantly different from treatment for methamphetamine addiction and schizophrenia. One fact remains consistent across the board. Getting sober is important when it comes to nailing down an accurate mental health diagnosis. It is difficult to tell what is going on when a person has been abusing a chemical substance, seeing as the symptoms associated with addiction and withdrawal can mimic the symptoms of mental illness. At Pine Tree Recovery Center we wait until a client has been physically stabilized before attempting to diagnose any mental health concern. Once the proper diagnosis is in place, we recommend the following treatment options:

• Residential Inpatient Rehabilitation – Entering into a residential treatment program that focuses on dual diagnosis recovery is usually a good idea. Following detox or IOP our case managers help clients transition into a dual diagnosis appropriate treatment program. Guardian Recovery Network residential inpatient programs are capable of taking dual diagnosis clients, however, if a client opts to go to a center which is outside of our network our case managers help make the transition as easy as possible.
• Intensive Outpatient Treatment – At Pine Tree Recovery Center we offer an IOP program geared towards dual diagnosis recovery. The main distinction between residential rehab and IOP is the commitment level. IOP provides more flexible care, allowing clients to return home every evening and tend to pre-existing responsibilities.

• Long-Term Psychotherapy – A range of evidence-based therapies have proven beneficial for the treatment of dual diagnosis disorders. At Pine Tree Recovery Center we offer cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, holistic therapies and more.
• Medication Assisted Treatment Options – If an anxiety disorder or a depressive disorder is present a client typically needs an antipsychotic medication. It is important the administration of any prescribed medication is closely monitored to ensure it is working as it should be and to avoid any misuse.
• Support Groups and Supportive Housing – Many dual diagnosis clients benefit from support groups, which help them recognize they are not alone while allowing them to offer peer support and encouragement. Supportive housing is also beneficial and provides an extra level of accountability and support. We are happy to connect you with a reputable sober home in your area.

Our Dual Diagnosis Services

At Pine Tree Recovery Center we offer the following services as part of our dual diagnosis program, during both medical detox and intensive outpatient treatment.

• Addiction & Psychiatric Assessments – Once the system has cleared and once the symptoms of acute withdrawal have predominantly subsided, a psychiatric professional conducts a personalized and in-depth assessment.
• Individual & Group Therapy – At Pine Tree Recovery Center we believe therapeutic healing should begin as early as medical detox. We offer individual therapy, group therapy and family therapy in medical detox and IOP.
• Case Management & Aftercare Planning – Case managers work closely with the clinical team to develop personalized and focused aftercare plans that meet the needs of each individual client.

Maintaining mental health in early recovery is critical to the maintenance of sobriety. At Pine Tree Recovery Center we focus on equipping each of our clients with the tools they need to avoid relapse when it comes to both substance abuse and mental health.

Begin Your Recovery Journey Today

When you or your loved one is ready to ask for help, Pine Tree Recovery Center will be here. Our admissions process is simple and straightforward and can be completed in as little as 15 minutes. We provide a complimentary assessment, go over all potential coverage options and help coordinate local travel to our Portland, Maine addiction treatment facility. All you or your loved one has to do is ask for help, and we will take care of the rest. Contact us today either over the phone or directly through our website to begin your personal journey of healing, or to help your loved one get started on theirs.