A Descriptive Analysis of Treatment Outcomes for Clients with Co-Occurring Disorders: The Role of Minority Identifications

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Racial/ethnic and gender disparities have been reported for a variety of substance abuse treatment outcomes, such as access to treatment and treatment completion, as well as differential representation in the criminal justice system. However, treatment outcomes have not been thoroughly explored in clients with co-occurring disorders.

Methods: This descriptive study reports on the results of a retrospective chart review of 129 consecutive admissions to a residential program for substance abusers with co-occurring physical and/or mental health disorders. The purpose of this study is to examine potential influences of race/ethnicity and other individual differences on drug use variables, mental health diagnoses, and treatment outcomes.

Results and Conclusions: It appears that treatment success is influenced by a variety of factors separate from drug use patterns and mental health diagnoses. Personal identities related to race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual identity appear to interact in unique ways. Treatment programs still seem to be geared toward the heterosexual male client.

KEYWORDS:

• Co-occurring disorders
• dual disorders
• treatment disparities
• cultural competence