Finding the Best Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for 18-Year-Olds

What is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in an individual. For many young adults, this combination can make treatment more complicated, as the disorders influence and amplify each other. Common mental health disorders that co-occur with substance use include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Dual diagnosis treatment involves addressing both conditions simultaneously. Effective treatment requires integrated care that focuses on both the mental health and substance use aspects of a person’s condition. For 18-year-olds, this care must be specially tailored to their age, development, and life circumstances.

Why is Specialized Treatment for 18-Year-Olds Important?

At 18, individuals are transitioning into adulthood, which can bring both opportunities and challenges. For young adults dealing with dual diagnosis, specialized treatment is essential because:

Developmental Factors: Teenagers and young adults are still developing emotionally, socially, and mentally. Tailored care addresses these specific developmental stages.

Peer Influence: Young adults may be more susceptible to peer pressure, making it critical to offer treatment that includes support for building healthy relationships and social skills.

Legal and Educational Issues: As 18-year-olds are legally considered adults, treatment centers must navigate issues such as school responsibilities, legal matters, and independent living.

Effective dual diagnosis programs for young adults combine therapy, life skills training, and emotional support to help them build a foundation for long-term recovery.

Top Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for 18-Year-Olds

Several treatment centers across the United States specialize in treating dual diagnosis in young adults. Here are some of the top centers that cater to 18-year-olds:

Sandstone Care (Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, Virginia)

Sandstone Care provides specialized treatment for young adults aged 18–30. Their dual diagnosis programs include residential treatment, outpatient care, and partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Sandstone Care offers a supportive and structured environment where young adults receive individualized therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and group counseling. The facility’s focus on holistic recovery helps clients address both mental health and substance use issues effectively.

Visit Sandstone Care

Muir Wood Adolescent and Family Services (California)

Located in Petaluma, California, Muir Wood offers an integrated treatment program for young adults dealing with mental health and substance use disorders. Their dual diagnosis program includes individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and 12-step programming. Muir Wood’s treatment model focuses on a personalized approach, taking into account the unique challenges faced by young adults in their transition to adulthood.

Visit Muir Wood

Sanford Behavioral Health (Michigan)

Sanford Behavioral Health, located in Marne, Michigan, offers a comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment program for young adults. They provide a variety of services including detoxification, residential care, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and outpatient care. Sanford’s treatment programs are designed to meet the needs of young adults facing both mental health and addiction challenges, with a focus on evidence-based practices and family involvement.

Visit Sanford Behavioral Health

Riley Children’s Health - ENCOMPASS Program (Indiana)

Riley Children’s Health offers a specialized program for adolescents and young adults with dual diagnosis through their ENCOMPASS program. This program integrates psychiatric care, therapy, and family counseling, helping young adults manage both mental health and addiction issues. Riley’s team works closely with families to ensure a holistic, supportive approach to treatment.

Visit Riley Children's Health

What to Look for in a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center

When choosing a dual diagnosis treatment center for an 18-year-old, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure the best fit for the individual’s needs:

Age-Specific Programs: Ensure the center has experience working with young adults and offers age-appropriate treatment. Programs designed for teens or young adults are more likely to address the unique challenges of this age group.

Comprehensive Therapy: A good dual diagnosis center should offer a range of therapeutic modalities, including individual therapy, group therapy, family counseling, and 12-step programs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are especially effective for addressing both mental health and addiction.

Family Involvement: Family support is essential in the recovery process. Look for centers that offer family counseling or programs that involve loved ones in the recovery journey.

Aftercare and Support: Long-term success in recovery often depends on continued support after treatment. Make sure the facility offers aftercare services such as outpatient programs, sober living arrangements, or alumni support groups.

Accreditation and Reputation: Ensure the treatment center is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Also, check reviews or testimonials from past patients and families.

How to Pay for Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Paying for treatment can be one of the biggest challenges for families. Here are some options for covering the costs of dual diagnosis treatment:

Insurance: Many insurance plans cover dual diagnosis treatment, including both substance use and mental health disorders. Contact your insurance provider to determine coverage and find out which treatment centers are in-network.

Financial Assistance: Some treatment centers offer sliding-scale fees based on income, financial aid, or payment plans. It’s important to inquire about financial assistance options at the centers you’re considering.

State and Federal Programs: Many states offer Medicaid or other state-sponsored programs that provide coverage for addiction and mental health treatment. These programs vary by state, so research available options in your area.

What to Expect During Treatment

Treatment at a dual diagnosis center typically involves several stages, each designed to address both the mental health and substance use components of the disorder:

Assessment and Intake: The first step in treatment is an assessment, where a comprehensive evaluation of the young adult’s mental health and substance use history is conducted.

Detoxification (if needed): If the individual is struggling with substance use, detox may be required to safely rid the body of drugs or alcohol.

Therapeutic Programs: Young adults will participate in individual therapy, group therapy, and family counseling, all aimed at addressing both mental health and addiction.

Aftercare: The treatment process doesn’t end when the young adult leaves the facility. Aftercare programs are crucial for helping individuals stay sober and continue managing their mental health. These may include outpatient therapy, support groups, and sober living arrangements.