The National Institute of Mental Health has determined that co-occurring disorders affect more than 10 million Americans each year. The term “co-occurring” describes a condition where a person suffers from both chemical dependency and mental illness—ranging from depression or bipolar disorder to PTSD or anxiety.1 The best option for treating co-occurring disorders is an integrated treatment model. The Oaks at La Paloma’s Intensive Outpatient Program for co-occurring disorders addresses substance use and mental health concerns simultaneously rather than as two separate entities. This integrated outpatient treatment program for co-occurring disorders provides an opportunity for you or your loved one to achieve complete and lasting recovery.
Our Approach to Treatment
We believe that you are the expert when it comes to your life. We are here to guide and treat you, but you know what you need most. That’s why we work with you to create an individualized treatment plan that includes measureable, achievable goals and objectives.
Our treatment philosophy is based on Motivational Interviewing and a stages-of-change approach.2 We view our relationship as a partnership with our clients. We aren’t going to try to coerce you to where we think you need to be; we are going to meet you where you are.
Treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment completed by a trained clinician. A full medical and psychiatric profile allows us to create a treatment plan that truly meets your specific needs. Clients can then choose between our morning and evening Intensive Outpatient Programs for co-occurring disorders. Our morning programs meets Monday through Friday from 9 am-noon, while our evening sessions are offered from 6-9 pm Monday through Thursday. Each three-hour treatment session is comprised of both specialty groups (education/lecture) and group therapy (process groups).
- Specialty Groups – Sessions address practical topics including relapse prevention, life skills training, stress management, relaxation training, experiential and holistic groups, hypnotherapy, family dynamics groups, family systems groups, enjoying life in recovery, Acudetox, yoga, and education related to mental health and substance use issues. Stress management sessions teach alternative techniques for handling stress, ranging from deep muscle relaxation and meditation to hypnotherapy and guided imagery.
- Process Groups – Sessions are facilitated by a licensed mental health professional, providing a regular time for clients to explore how to bring past issues into today and work through life stressors and challenges while receiving valuable feedback from their peers. Group support in a secure setting with professional oversight is invaluable to the healing process.
- Family Group Therapy – Family involvement is an integral component in the recovery of individuals. Substance use and/or mental health disorders also affect family members and others who provide support for individuals living with co-occurring issues. Family members and other caregivers are encouraged to attend our weekly Family Lecture Series. Our weekly Family Lecture Series offers topics that include the following:
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- Education on substance use and mental health issues
- Family systems issues
- Creating and implementing health boundaries
- Identification and avoidance of dangerous enabling behavior
- Understanding the negative effects of codependent relationships
- Learning healthy communication strategies
- Supporting and partnering with loved ones in recovery
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Our Intensive Family Workshop, offered once a month, provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the services available to patients and family members at The Oaks at La Paloma. Families participate in activities that foster increased awareness of substance use and mental health disorders and enhance quality of life and emotional well-being for all involved. Patients and their families learn how they can make their interpersonal relationships healthier. While our program is group-based, individual sessions are available as needed. We also offer family sessions and a family weekend program. Random weekly drug testing helps us monitor progress, and provides accountability and compliance with any external agencies requiring these results.
Our Approach to Medication
As part of our treatment programs, we offer physician-directed medication management. This allows you to consult our on-staff psychiatrist or work with your existing provider to collaborate and coordinate treatment, including those currently taking Suboxone or Subutex.
Get Help Now
If you or a loved one struggles with addiction and mental illness, we are here to help. For more information or to schedule an assessment, call us directly at 901-722-3973 between 8 am and 5 pm CST Monday through Friday, or call our 24-hour, toll-free helpline at 901-350-4575.
1 “Substance Use and Mental Health.” National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Accessed 7 Nov. 2017.
2 “Motivational Interviewing.” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers. Accessed 7 Nov. 2017.