Module 3: Treatment Strategies

4. Emerging Treatment Approaches for Youth with Co-occurring Disorders

Although not specifically designed for youth with co-occurring disorders, some new treatment approaches have shown good outcomes related to recidivism, substance use, and management of serious emotional disorders and mental illness (Kazdin, 1996; Mash & Barkley, 1998; TIP 32, 1999). Policymakers have shown support by increased funding of these interventions (Henggeler et al., 1998; TIP 32, 1999). The core elements of emerging approaches are family and community involvement and treatment of the mental health and substance use disorders via coordinated and collaborative treatment plans. This section presents key features of the following approaches:

• Cognitive-behavioral skills-based interventions
• Motivational enhancement approaches (Miller & Rollnick, 1991)
• Community-based interventions (DeLeon, 1988)
• Family-focused approaches (Alexander & Parsons, 1982; Henggeler, Schoenwald, & Pickrel, 1995; Minuchin, 1985; Patterson & Stouthamer-Loeber, 1984)