Description of and Preliminary Data from a Women's Dual Diagnosis Community Mental Health Program

Gender differences in dually diagnosed populations with regard to clinical characteristics and treatment issues suggest that single gender programs for women in particular may be warranted. This article describes an innovative approach taken in the treatment of women with dual diagnoses, a traditionally underserved and unempowered population. The Harborview Mental Health Services Women's Dual Diagnosis Program incorporated empirically based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy for dual disorders, dialectical behavior therapy and contingency management into a comprehensive, integrated dual diagnosis program. Preliminary data indicate that this approach has excellent effectiveness in areas such as psychiatric hospitalization, sobriety, productivity, and housing.