Substance Treatment Options in Psychosis (STOP): A new intervention for dual diagnosis

Abstract

Despite the high co-occurrence of psychosis and substance abuse, there is very little research on the development of effective treatments for this problem. This paper descrives a new intervention that facilitates reaching functional goals through a collaboration between therapists, participants and families. Substance Treatment Options in Psychosis (STOP) integrates pharmacological and psychological treatments for psychotic symptoms, with cognitive-behavioural approaches to substance abuse. STOP is tailored to participants' problems and abilities, and recognises that control of consumption and even engagementmay take severalattempts. Training in relevantskills is augmented by bibliotherapy, social support and environmental change. and challenges in implementation.