Mental health and substance abuse treatment near me

Our Mission:

Creating collaborative pathways to resiliency, recovery, and independence for Tennesseans living with mental illness and substance use disorders

Our Vision:

A state of resiliency, recovery, and independence in which Tennesseans living with mental illness and substance use disorders thrive

Welcome to the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Crisis Services

Our network of 12 crisis services providers are located across the state. From a 24/7/365 crisis line to statewide mobile crisis, crisis walk-in centers, and crisis stabilization units, the crisis continuum serves both adults and youth.

Mental Health Services

The department administers services for people of all ages living with mental illness, co-occurring disorders, or serious emotional disturbances. Services include housing, crisis services, suicide prevention, and peer recovery.

Substance Abuse Services

The department plans, develops, administers, and evaluates a statewide system of prevention, treatment, and recovery support services for people at risk of or experiencing substance use disorder.

Hospital Services

The department operates four Regional Mental Health Institutes in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, and Bolivar and contracts for emergency psychiatric admissions at three private hospitals in East Tennessee.

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Department News

  • TDMHSAS Extends Grant Funding to New Substance Use Prevention Coalitions
  • TDMHSAS Encourages Tennesseans to Participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
  • TDMHSAS Receives New Grant to Help Parents Address Addiction
  • TDMHSAS Receives New Funding to Continue Mental Health Intervention for Youth and Young Adults
  • TDMHSAS Welcomes Opioid Abatement Council Executive Director
  • State Departments Issue Guidance Around Fentanyl Exposure

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Millions of Americans have a substance use disorder.Help is available.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) collects information on thousands of state-licensed providers who specialize in treating substance use disorders, addiction, and mental illness.

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What to expect

Help is available, treatment works, and people recover every day.

Treatment options

Learn about finding quality treatment, the different types of treatment, and what to expect when starting treatment.

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Paying for treatment

Learn more about the cost of treatment and payment options.

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Understanding addiction

Addiction is a chronic disease that changes the brain and alters decision-making.

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Understanding mental health

About half of people with a substance use disorder also experience serious mental illness.

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What is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Someone who struggles with drug or alcohol addiction and a co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, is said to have a dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis treatment centers take an integrated and comprehensive care approach to fully address and rectify both conditions. This type of treatment is offered by treatment centers that provide rehab from substance abuse and help with mental health related issues. Only treating one issue may put the person at an increased risk of relapse.

The concept of a dual diagnosis treatment—alternatively referred to as co-occurring or co-morbid disorders—is a clinical term that refers to the presence of both a substance use disorder and a mental or behavioral health condition.

Sometimes one condition might contribute to or worsen the other. For example, someone with a mental illness might use drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. In other cases, substance abuse may uncover a mental illness or worsen related symptoms. Some examples of what could be considered a dual diagnosis disorder is having a substance abuse problem along with any of the following:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Depression
  • Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Anxiety disorder
  • Cutting and Self-Harm
  • Eating Disorder

Why is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program Important?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 8 million adults struggled with both a substance use disorder and a mental disorder in 2014. However, only a fraction of people with substance abuse problems and/or mental illnesses seek professional help to get the treatment they need.

Mental health and substance abuse treatment near me

There is no specific explanation for why drug and alcohol addiction and psychiatric illness co-occur so frequently. People who suffer from both a substance disorder and mental illness often exhibit symptoms that are more persistent, severe, and resistant to treatment compared with people who suffer from only one disorder.

History of Dual Diagnosis

Dual diagnosis typically applies to people who suffer from a severe, persistent mental illness coupled with a substance abuse disorder. Historically, there has been a split in the U.S. between mental health and addiction services. A group that has fallen through the cracks of this divide are people who’ve been given a dual diagnosis.

Because each system of treatment has existed in isolation, it has been extremely difficult for people who have a dual diagnosis to get the care they need in either traditional mental health or addiction treatment programs.

Until integrated dual diagnosis programs became available, it was more difficult for people with co-occurring disorders to receive effective help because they generally participated in separate treatment programs that didn’t address their unique needs.

Individuals with dual diagnosis disorders require a treatment program grounded in expertise in both areas. Fortunately, increasing numbers of substance use disorder treatment programs are becoming equipped to treat co-occurring disorders.

Dual Diagnosis Assessment

During clinical assessment for dual diagnosis, health professionals consider a number of factors. Generally, they will look at whether the individual:

  • Meets the criteria for a psychiatric disorder.
  • Has a history of substance use that has had a negative impact on their psychiatric health, relationships, work, and leisure activities.
  • Might be a danger to themselves or others, has a history of violence, or has experienced suicidal thoughts.
  • Has a support system and resources available.
  • Is motivated to undergo rehabilitation and has the level of support needed for treatment to succeed.

Signs of Mental Health Disorders

Mental health and substance abuse treatment near me
Mental health disorders and substance use disorders frequently occur together, but many of the symptoms are quite distinct. Although symptoms will naturally differ based on the specific mental health condition in question, some commonly encountered signs of a mental health disorder include:

  • Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt, fear, or panic.
  • Lack of interest in daily endeavors.
  • Change in appetite, weight, or sleep patterns.
  • Lack of energy.
  • Racing thoughts and trouble concentrating.
  • Increased irritability.
  • Risky behavior.
  • Suicidal thoughts.

Signs of Substance Use Disorders

  • An inability to control use of the substance or a tendency to use more of the substance than planned.
  • Cravings for the substance.
  • Developing a tolerance for the substance, or needing more of it to achieve the same effect.
  • Feeling symptoms of withdrawal after discontinuing use of the substance.
  • Spending a great deal of time on the substance, including time used to acquire it, use it, and recover from use.
  • Failing to meet work, home, or school obligations because of use.
  • Using the substance at the expense of relationships, regular activities, and personal safety.

Inpatient Treatment Programs for Co-Occurring Disorders

There is evidence that with help, people with a dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders can stabilize and recover. A large part of the treatment for dual diagnosis involves behavioral interventions. Types of behavioral therapy commonly used in dual diagnosis treatment include:

  • Dialectic behavioral therapy, which has the goal of reducing self-harming behaviors that often accompany mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
  • Integrated group therapy, which seeks to treat the symptoms of both substance use disorders and mental health illnesses all at once.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy, which works to minimize problematic beliefs and behaviors and develop healthier thinking and behavioral patterns to sustain sobriety.
  • Individual psychotherapy, which treats behaviors related to substance abuse and/or particular behavioral or mental health problems.

Dual diagnosis treatment programs sometimes utilize behavioral therapies in combination with medication. Medicines will vary according to the individual and the diagnosis. Some of the more commonly used medications include lithium and anticonvulsants, which are often prescribed as mood stabilizers, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs such as buspirone (BuSpar).

Types of Treatment for Dual Diagnosis Programs

Treatment for substance abuse dual diagnosis will be different based on the individual’s needs and preferences. Treatment may take place on an inpatient or outpatient basis.

Inpatient Treatment Programs

Depending on the severity of the illness, a person with a dual diagnosis might require or benefit from inpatient care. A common form of inpatient treatment is “residential” rehab, in which participants live at the rehab center during treatment. Depending on the facility’s rules, residents may be permitted to leave the treatment center or have regular visitors.

Because of the complicated nature of co-occurring disorders, many people with a dual diagnosis will require the additional services, ongoing support, and on-site professionals from multidisciplinary backgrounds that may be found in inpatient centers. These programs allow those suffering from complex issues surrounding a dual diagnosis to receive the intensive treatment needed to get a solid start on the path to recovery from both disorders.

What Happens During Inpatient Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

  • Receive regular education about mental health issues as well as substance abuse and addiction.
  • Receive daily therapy.
  • Have the opportunity to attend support groups every day.
  • Are immersed in a community of people who are learning to live without drugs or alcohol.

Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient treatment for dual diagnosis is more flexible than inpatient treatment. Outpatient programs can vary in intensity and time commitment. For some people, participating in intensive outpatient treatment, where they spend 30 hours or more per week at the rehab center, is sufficient initial treatment.

If inpatient dual diagnosis treatment is initially required, participants may then graduate to an intensive outpatient program that supports their desire to live in the community more independently while they continue their recovery efforts. Participants may receive a variety of services in such a program, including:

  • Medication management.
  • Transportation.
  • Involvement in peer support groups or 12-step programs.
  • Individual and family therapy.
  • Support in living independently.

What Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center is Best For Me?

When choosing the best dual diagnosis treatment program for you, it’s important to understand some basics about treatment. This includes your privacy in rehab, where to find and attend treatment, and how to pay for a program.

Privacy

Rehab center staff members know that confidentiality is paramount to client safety. A common concern among people looking for or entering dual diagnosis treatment is their privacy and confidentiality. Whether it’s a top rated dual diagnosis treatment center or not, rest assured that all rehab programs are mandated by law to protect patient privacy.

Rehab center staff members know that confidentiality is paramount to client safety. As part of admission into the program, staff will review the facility’s policies and answer any questions to help you feel as safe and comfortable as possible.

Different Types of Programs for Dual Diagnosis and Co-occurring Treatment

Individual paths to recovery differ, and treatment services for mental health and substance use disorders should be tailored to fit a person’s needs. SAMHSA supports an individualized, integrative approach for treatment of dual diagnosis.

Depending on their individual situation and specific requirements, a person in need of dual diagnosis treatment may benefit in receiving a variety of therapeutic interventions from a number of treatment settings. These may include:

  • Specialty community behavioral health centers.
  • Substance use disorder rehab programs.
  • Independent providers, such as therapists and counselors in private practice.
  • Hospital-based treatment programs or access to hospital services.
  • Community health centers.
  • Mutual support groups and peer-run organizations.
  • Community-based organizations, such as churches.
  • Schools.
  • Criminal justice programs, such as counseling services within a prison system.
  • Tele-behavioral or home-based services that provide treatment in the home.
  • Inpatient service providers.
  • Primary care programs that offer behavioral health services.

Visit here to find out more: Co-Occurring Disorders and Substance Abuse Treatment Near Me 

Paying for Dual Diagnosis Rehab

The costs of treatment will vary by program and may be influenced by differing levels of insurance for dual diagnosis treatment. If you have insurance, check with your carrier to find out:

  • Whether your plan covers dual diagnosis treatment.
  • How much your plan will pay.
  • Which rehabs programs are covered in your plan.

Many people who have low incomes qualify for Medicaid. If you have Medicaid, you’ll need to check with your county to find a covered rehab.

If you don’t have sufficient insurance to cover your dual diagnosis rehab program, you may be able to obtain financing from the rehab facility. This financing is usually based on financial need.  You might receive a reduced rate or be given the option to pay your bill in monthly installments. For more information on the various payment options available, including free rehab, take a look at No-Cost and Free Drug and Alcohol Centers Near Me.

Visit here for more information on how to pay for rehab treatment.

Does Your Insurance Cover the Cost of Inpatient Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Rehabs.com is a subsidiary of American Addiction Centers (AAC) a leading provider of drug and alcohol addiction and dual diagnosis treatment nationwide. AAC is in network with many of the top insurance providers in the U.S. Use the form below to find out instantly if your insurance benefits cover some or all of the cost of dual diagnosis treatment.

Recommendations from people leaving treatment

Mental health and substance abuse treatment near me
Recovery Brands collected data in 2016 asking people that were leaving an addiction treatment program what clinic facets they saw as high priority things to look at when deciding on treatment.

The top priority was the program’s financial practices, such as insurance accepted, payment options, and financial support. They also appreciated program offerings (extra activities, amenities, food quality, etc.) significantly more after finishing treatment. Individuals looking for treatment should consider a facility’s monetary policies as well as facility offerings to help with their final facility decision.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Aftercare

Mental health and substance abuse treatment near me
While dual diagnosis treatment lays the foundation for recovery and long-term sobriety, aftercare helps maintain the progress made during treatment.

Ongoing support is essential for anyone in recovery from addiction and is even more important when a mental health disorder is present. A comprehensive, individualized aftercare program is vital to sobriety and progressive recovery after completion of a dual diagnosis rehab program.

Dual diagnosis treatment centers take extra care to incorporate relapse prevention into the aftercare plan. Prior to leaving a treatment program, the individual will meet with counselors to discuss a plan for aftercare.

Many dual diagnosis rehab facilities offer follow-up programs to assist recovering individuals as they transition back into their everyday lives. These follow-up plans may include:

  • Weekend stays at the rehab center. These stays benefit individuals who feel they may be at risk for relapse or those who simply require some additional support.
  • Transition to a sober-living facility. While there, recovering individuals may be required to complete chores, work at an outside job, and participate in group therapy sessions. This offers a supportive, transitional time before returning back to “normal” life.
  • Regular therapy sessions. Therapy programs help the individual to continue working through issues and making positive changes to sustain sobriety.
  • Scheduled drug testing. This provides a good way to maintain accountability for abstinence after program completion.
  • Group therapy. This type of therapy provides a positive method for building a support system at home. Options for group therapy include 12-step support groups, gender-specific or faith-based support groups, and more.

In dual diagnosis aftercare support groups, it is often said that participants get what they give, so they are encouraged to interact with other group members and share their experiences with the group. Once those recovering from dual diagnosis are more established in their sobriety, they may choose to mentor others who are newly recovering as well.


How to Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers Near Me

Although dealing with substance abuse and mental illness can seem like an uphill battle, many people with dual diagnosis recover and go on to live happy, healthy lives. But successful recovery takes time and effort. At the start of the process, attempting to choose a dual diagnosis treatment program on your own can be overwhelming.

Aside from considering a dual diagnosis treatment center near you, there are other factors that should be considered to meet your specific needs. You can always call a helpline or treatment center’s direct line to speak to a caring admissions consultant about your treatment options. In order to receive guidance concerning your treatment search, it’s important to prepare some information before calling. For instance, if you have insurance, you’ll want to have your insurance card in front of you.

That way you can provide the admissions consultant with your policy number and plan name. They will then use this information to verify your benefits. You’ll also want to report the substance or substances being abused, how long the addiction has been going on, the average amount used, the method of administration, and any co-occurring medical or mental health disorders. If you have any special medical concerns, such as pregnancy, then you’ll want to disclose that as well.


  • Dual-Diagnosis Treatment Insurance Coverage
  • Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
  • Mental Health & Substance Abuse Rehab
  • SUD & Depression Treatment
  • Addiction & PTSD Treatment
  • SUD & ADHD Treatment
  • SUD & Bipolar Disorder Treatment
  • Substance Abuse and Self-Harm Care

What is the best psychotherapy for substance abuse?

Behavioral therapy is perhaps the most commonly utilized types of treatment for addiction that is frequently used during substance rehabilitation. A general behavioral therapeutic approach has been adapted into a variety of effective techniques.

Should I go to rehab for mental illness?

Not all persons with mental illness require rehabilitation. For many patients, medication or a combination of medication and therapy is sufficient to help them get back to a functional life. For some others, rehabilitation may be that essential final part of the treatment cycle.

Is substance abuse a mental health disorder?

A substance use disorder (SUD) is a mental disorder that affects a person's brain and behavior, leading to a person's inability to control their use of substances such as legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications. Symptoms can range from moderate to severe, with addiction being the most severe form of SUDs.

What is the SAMHSA grant?

SAMHSA grants support programs designed to prevent and treat mental and/or substance use disorders. They also aim to improve access and reduce barriers to high-quality health care for individuals who experience or are at risk for these disorders, as well as for their families and communities.