For many people, mental health challenges and substance use do not happen in isolation. They often occur together which creates a more complex recovery journey. When someone experiences both it is known as dual diagnosis, also referred to as co-occurring disorders.
At Aspire Counseling Services, we understand that true recovery only happens when both conditions are treated at the same time. Our team provides compassionate care across Bakersfield, Fresno, Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Victorville, and San Luis Obispo, supporting individuals with treatment tailored to their full set of needs.
What Does Dual Diagnosis Mean?
“Dual diagnosis” describes a condition in which a person is living with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. These two issues are closely linked. Mental health symptoms can lead someone to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol and substance use can make mental health symptoms worse or trigger new ones.
Some examples include:
- Someone with depression who begins drinking to cope, only to find their symptoms worsening
- A person with anxiety who turns to substances to relax, eventually becoming dependent
- Individuals with trauma who use substances to numb pain, which increases emotional instability over time
If only one issue is addressed in treatment, progress can stall and relapse becomes more likely. This is why treating both conditions at once is essential.
How Common Are Co-Occurring Disorders?
Dual diagnosis is more widespread than many people realize. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA):
“About 50% of people with a substance use disorder also have a mental health disorder, and vice versa.”
Despite its high rate, many people with co-occurring disorders remain undiagnosed or receive treatment that only addresses part of their condition. Without a plan that addresses both, recovery can feel like an uphill battle.
Signs That Dual Diagnosis May Be Present
Identifying dual diagnosis early can make a significant difference in recovery. Some signs to watch for include:
- Using substances to manage emotions or trauma
- Difficulty handling responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Withdrawing from relationships or isolating from loved ones
- Experiencing mood swings, depression, or anxiety
- Struggling with focus, memory, or decision-making
- Continuing substance use despite negative consequences
- Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed by mental health symptoms
If several of these signs sound familiar, it may be time to seek a dual diagnosis evaluation.
How Aspire Approaches Dual Diagnosis Treatment
TAt Aspire Counseling Services, we treat both mental health and substance use disorders together in a fully integrated model. Many treatment centers still separate these issues or prioritize one over the other. Aspire believes that long-term recovery is only possible when both are addressed from the start.
We provide this dual focus in both Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) for adults and adolescents. Every treatment plan is built around the individual, considering their history, struggles, and goals.
At Aspire Counseling Services, our dual diagnosis treatment is led by experienced, CADC-certified clinicians who specialize in behavioral health and substance use recovery. We provide structured, evidence-based care that supports individuals in managing both mental health challenges and addiction. Our programs are designed to be compassionate, practical, and highly individualized, helping each client build lasting tools for recovery in a real-world context.
What’s Included in Aspire’s Dual Diagnosis Programs
Aspire’s programs are designed to support clients in all areas of life, not just in the therapy room. Dual diagnosis treatment may include:
- Individualized treatment planning
- Group therapy and peer connection
- Relapse prevention and life skills education
- Trauma-informed care
- Art therapy and HealthRHYTHMS drumming
- Certified pet therapy
- Nutrition and wellness resources
By combining structure, community, and compassion, Aspire helps clients develop healthier coping tools, build emotional resilience, and maintain lasting recovery.
Whole Person Care Makes a Difference
Mental health and substance use affect every part of a person’s life. Treating just one piece of the puzzle rarely leads to lasting change. At Aspire Counseling Services, we provide treatment that looks at the full picture and helps individuals heal in a more sustainable, empowering way.
Recovery is possible when care addresses the whole person, not just the diagnosis.
Get the Support You Deserve
If you or someone you love may be living with both a mental health disorder and substance use challenges, Aspire Counseling Services is here to help. Our programs are available across California and offer flexible, outpatient support designed to meet you where you are.
To learn more about dual diagnosis treatment at Aspire, reach out to our team today. You’ll find hope, healing, and a plan for lasting recovery.
We proudly serve clients in Bakersfield, Fresno, Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, San Luis Obispo, and Victorville.