If you feel that your teen is struggling with troubling behaviours, you may have come across information about dual diagnosis programs online. You may be asking yourself, “What is a dual diagnosis program?” Our dual diagnosis treatment program works to provide mental health care in addition to treating the problematic behaviours that cause turmoil to many familial relationships. Using a variety of techniques in counselling, our therapists work to uncover the underlying challenges that many teens face. While each case is different, many patterns and behaviours tend to be prevalent.
Dual Diagnosis Therapy for Teens
Venture Academy helps to foster positive behaviours with a variety of counseling styles, including individualized sessions, group therapy, and educational methods of behavioural modification. Some common mental health issues that we address include:
- Depression
- Bipolar
- ADHD
- Borderline personality disorder
- PTSD
You may be asking yourself, “What is dual diagnosis treatment in a behavioural modification program?” When your teen arrives at our centre, they’ll begin with a 30-day assessment and intervention to determine the type of therapy that’s appropriate for their needs. We’ll develop a treatment plan that includes their individualized program, and they’ll begin working with our team.
What is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Effective For?
Group therapy sessions help the individual work together with others towards a common goal. They’ll share stories of their experiences and can gain insight from the other group members. Typically, a counselor will lead the group to keep it on track and to avoid disruptions. Group participants will often learn new, healthier ways to cope. Staying out of trouble is a strong motivating factor for many of our participants. Dependence on and abuse of drugs and/or alcohol, as well as addiction to electronics, are topics that many participants struggle with. Learning how to deal with these problems effectively is always a group goal.
Individual counseling in a one-on-one setting is part of every dual diagnosis program. Therapy with a counselor is a form of intervening, and it helps the teen to work through their problems. The student will learn new ways to react differently in the future. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most common form of individual treatment. Developing better social skills and perception is another common goal that comes into play when treating teens. There’s a focus on thinking things through and learning how to frame matters sensibly. Since the programs at Venture Academy are residential, learners have round-the-clock reinforcement to help them along in their journey to recovery. CBT works to address how thoughts and feelings influence each other and impact progress.
Although a less common form of therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), is becoming increasingly relevant. This one-on-one form of therapy focuses on treating those living with conditions that are resistant to CBT. Suicidal ideation, PTSD, substance abuse, and more are concerns that can benefit from DBT. Mindfulness, emotional regulation, and acceptance are the goals of DBT.
How Long Does a Dual Diagnosis Program Last?
Since our program intake works on a rolling basis, we’re able to accommodate new participants throughout the year. Once approved, the teen’s program length after the initial 30-day assessment period is on a case-by-case basis. The program is residential, but we encourage visits to our campus and visits home. You’ll never have to worry about losing touch with your loved one. Review our program’s objectives to find more information regarding our philosophy of treatment. We have three convenient locations throughout Canada to serve your family. If it’s time for your teen to get a fresh start, call Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 to speak with one of our staff members today.