The Dual Diagnosis Unit

	DUAL DIAGNOSIS UNIT
	The Dual Diagnosis Unit here at Desert Hills is a residential treatment program (staffed and secured 24 hours daily) for adolescent Boys and Girls ages 11-17. It’s for adolescents struggling with both a mental illness and chemical dependency. These are two unique problems that need to be addressed simultaneously.

On our Units we provide strong structure and daily guidance. Our approach helps the individual examine the effects their behavior has had on their life.  We promote a safe setting for life recovery and self-discovery whether they are dealing with chemical dependency, eating disorder, sexual abuse or trauma. The Treatment Team is made up of a program director, therapist, psychiatrist, nurse, parents/guardians, client and staff. They meet monthly to assess treatment needs.

Our program is designed to support clients in working on skills:

• Managing Co-occurring Disorders
  • will give the client an opportunity to understand that changing their high-risk behaviors can be a positive experience.
•  Rational Thinking
  • will give the client an opportunity to recognize how their thoughts control their feelings and behavior.
  • the client will explore tools they can use to improve their thinking style.
• Living with Others
  • will give the client the opportunity to explore the components of healthy and unhealthy relationships. 
  • encourages exploring strategies to help clients manage their anger and develop a personalized anger management plan.
  • the client will examine three roadblocks to positive attitudes: resentment, self-pity, and grandiosity.

The work does not stop there upon completion of the program. Desert Hills provides wrap-around services for the individual and their family so as to continue the support in maintaining a successful lifestyle “One Day at A Time”.