Occupational therapy for people with dual diagnosis: a single case study

TL;DR: The authors suggested factors contributing to the positive outcomes were using a defined intervention model, dealing with substance misuse directly and taking into account the client's neurocognitive functioning.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Dual diagnosis is the coexistence of a substance abuse disorder and a separate mental illness. AIM / METHOD: This report used a case study design to describe the implementation of occupational therapy based on the model of human occupation for one client who had dual diagnosis. Before and after intervention, the client was assessed by the researchers using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Brief Alcohol and Drug Scale and individualized intervention goals. DISCUSSION / CONCLUSION: The authors suggested factors contributing to the positive outcomes were using a defined intervention model, dealing with substance misuse directly and taking into account the client's neurocognitive functioning. The methods of reflexivity and triangulation were used to establish the credibility of the findings.