Dual Diagnosis Treatment & Evaluation in Austin and Surrounding Areas
Living with dual diagnosis often feels like trying to solve two complex puzzles at the same time — but the pieces keep shifting. Many people think they have to “fix” one problem before addressing the other, but in reality mental health and substance use issues are so intertwined that treating them together is the fastest path to stability. With the right evaluation and integrated treatment, you can move from constant struggle to a sustainable recovery that supports both mind and body.
Understanding Dual Diagnosis
Plain-English definition: Dual diagnosis refers to having both a mental health condition (like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD) and a substance use disorder at the same time.
How it often appears in adults vs stereotypes:
Adults often don’t fit the stereotype of “addiction first, mental health second” — many turn to substances to cope with undiagnosed or untreated mental health symptoms.
Symptoms may not be obvious; someone can appear “functional” while still battling both conditions daily.
Common symptoms and examples:
Mood swings, irritability, or unexplained anxiety while using or in withdrawal
Substance use that worsens mental health symptoms
Difficulty maintaining relationships, work, or routines
Feeling “stuck” because progress in one area stalls when the other flares up
Why it’s often missed or misunderstood: Many providers treat only one issue at a time, which can make relapse or symptom return more likely. An integrated approach is essential.
My Diagnostic Process
Comprehensive intake — exploring your mental health history, substance use patterns, and how they interact
Evidence-based assessments — screening for co-occurring disorders using validated tools
Differential diagnosis — ensuring symptoms are attributed to the correct root cause (e.g., depression vs. substance-induced mood disorder)
Personalized plan — not just a label — creating a treatment strategy that addresses both conditions simultaneously
Treatment Tailored to You
Integrated therapy that addresses both mental health and substance use in the same sessions
Medication management for mental health stabilization and craving reduction when appropriate
Skills training for managing triggers, cravings, and emotional regulation
Relapse prevention planning with ongoing support and accountability
Lifestyle and support network building to reinforce long-term recovery
Personalization matters because no two dual diagnosis cases are the same — the right plan adapts with your progress.
Why My Practice is Different
Most online information about dual diagnosis is either too clinical or oversimplified. I believe in giving you a clear, practical understanding of what’s happening in your brain and body, along with specific tools you can start using right away. You’ll know your options, understand the “why” behind each recommendation, and never feel left in the dark.
Actionable insight: Track your mental health symptoms alongside your substance use patterns for two weeks. This often reveals hidden triggers and helps you see the connections more clearly.
Dual Diagnosis Often Comes with Company
Dual diagnosis frequently overlaps with trauma, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, or chronic stress. Treating it effectively means addressing the full picture, not just one part.
Serving Austin and Beyond
I provide dual diagnosis treatment for clients in:
Austin, Barton Creek, Bastrop, Bee Cave, Bertram, Blanco, Briarcliff, Brushy Creek, Buda, Burnet, Cedar Park, Circle C, Creedmoor, Dripping Springs, Elgin, Florence, Georgetown, Granger, Great Hills, Hays, Hutto, Jarrell, Johnson City, Jonestown, Jollyville, Kyle, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Leander, Liberty Hill, Lockhart, Luling, Manor, Marble Falls, Martindale, Meadowlakes, Mountain City, Mustang Ridge, New Braunfels, Niederwald, Pflugerville, Point Venture, River Place, Rollingwood, Round Rock, San Marcos, Smithville, Steiner Ranch, Sunset Valley, Taylor, The Domain, The Hills, Thrall, Volente, Webberville, Weir, West Lake Hills, Wimberley, Woodcreek, Zilker, and throughout all of Texas!