‘Trauma Focused’ treatment acknowledges that traumatic experiences predispose a person toward substance use as a means of coping, self-medicating or dissociating. ‘Co-Occurring’ treatment recognizes the fundamental intersection of mental health and substance use disorders. Most clients with co-occurring issues are referred to LCBHS through other community partners such as medical providers, psychiatric hospitals, forensic sources, or social services. Clients also self-refer from the general community. They are screened and evaluated on a triage in terms of severity and level of impairments.
This program was developed through collaboration between LCBHS, primary care, and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) providers. The program provides coordinated resources and treatment options for consumers with complex co-occurring behavioral and physical health disorders. Unrecognized, unaddressed trauma symptoms can lead to poor engagement in treatment, premature termination of treatment, greater risk for relapse of psychological symptoms or substance use, and worse outcomes.
This program intends to sensitively identify clients who have/are experiencing trauma and/or co-occurring disorders in order to develop a tailored service plan that would increase treatment adherence and promote recovery and wellness.