Working with Individuals: The Broader Picture and Getting Started

The aims of this chapter are to outline and explore: the varied and complex nature of the relationship between substance use and mental health problems when working with individuals;factors impacting on motivation to change;the importance and essential skills needed in risk assessment when working with individuals with dual diagnoses;problem formulation and conceptualization;the contemporary psychosocial interventions employed in working with dual diagnosis and their efficacy;the Care Programme Approach (CPA);relapse prevention and issues and complexities;strength-based approaches;the importance and centrality of the therapeutic relationship.