Motivating persons with dual disorders: A stage approach

Assessment of and intervention with persons with coexisting psychiatric and substance-use disorders can be complex, particularly because outcome research offers little guidance. Because clients may vary in the degree to which they recognize both disorders as problems, practitioners need strategies to help clients identify and accept their need for help. The author describes the integration and application of two conceptual models from addictions research, stages of change and motivational interviewing, to help engage and motivate clients to make the changes necessary for recovery from both disorders. The presentation of each model is followed by a discussion of their integration and use with this special population.