"Individuals with coexisting mental disorders should have both disorders treated in an integrated way."

Because addictive disorders and mental disorders often occur in the same individual, patients presenting for either condition should be assessed and treated for the co-occurrence of the other type of disorder…

Although this may seem like a no-brainer, many people find the lack of understanding and consideration regarding dual diagnosis not only surprising but disappointing.

We believe the line between "Addiction" and "Organic Mental Illness" is rarely easy to define. In fact, the very idea that addiction is not an organic mental illness is a notion which must be dispelled - and quickly.

Here is a typical scenario:

A client enters treatment. While there, the staff deals with his addiction and his co-occuring condition (such as depression, bipolar, or other personality disorders). Once the client is released back to his family and his community of origin, the client is encouraged to participate in a 12-Step fellowship. But he often finds a collection of amateur psychologists and overnight visionaries who tell him, "All you need to do is work the Steps!"

It's no wonder that so many people with co-occuring mental disorders find it incredibly difficult to maintain their abstinence while treating both illnesses.

In such cases, what is needed is a constant assessment and re-assessment of needs and appropriate combinations of medication, therapy, physical activity and, quite often, non-traditional treatment modalities.

The Sober Companion is an ideal resource for such clients. Any sufferer now can find himself with a full-time confidante and ally. Instead of "black-and-white" thinking about treating one or the other, we create an environment where holistic treatment is preferred and accessible.

If you have been subjected to the misunderstanding of family, friends and business associates, you can rely upon yuor Sober Coach to educate them in ways you cannot.

We deal not only with the addict, but with the entire home/work environment. Addiction is a family disease. All parts of the client's life have been affected; therefore, all parts of the client's life require treatment.