Building the Path to Home
Links to sustainable housing
for people with dual diagnosis
Clinical services
Most people with a dual diagnosis will need core clinical services, some of which are provided through the mental health system and some of which are provided through the developmental services sector.
Mental health sector clinical services
Clinical mental health services focus on treating symptoms, helping people learn about and manage their mental health problems, and supporting people so that they can function in the community.
Services include:
- assessment
- prescribing and monitoring medication
- counselling or therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioural therapy, psychotherapy)
- helping people to develop the skills and supports they need to meet their goals.
Clinical services offered by hospitals and community mental health agencies are provided by psychiatrists working with members of a multidisciplinary team (e.g., nurses, social workers, psychologists, occupational therapists). Most services are offered in community-based settings, but are often connected to a hospital that offers outpatient services, day treatment programs and inpatient assessment and treatment.
Many hospitals and community-based mental health programs have assertive community treatment (ACT) teams. These programs are specifically designed for people with serious mental illnesses who have complex needs and require a high level of support as well as long-term, frequent and often intensive treatment and monitoring.
ConnexOntario has an online database of information about mental health programs in Ontario. You can also call the information line at 1 866 531-2600.
Developmental sector clinical services
Specialized clinical assessment and treatment services can be accessed through the developmental services sector. These services include speech/language therapy, behaviour therapy, psychological and psychiatric services, occupational therapy and other specialized assessments.
Surrey Place Centre provides most of these services. It has a mental health team as well as a number of clinical specialty staff and programs. Call 416 925-5141 and ask for Adult Services Intake.
Some specialized assessment and treatment services are offered through Community Living Toronto and the Griffin Centre.
Other developmental services organizations offer clinical services to those who are in residential or day programs.
Substance use clinical services
Some substance use programs require complete abstinence. Others focus on reducing the harmful consequences of substance use while helping people to define treatment goals (harm reduction).
Substance use treatment and recovery support programs in Toronto can be accessed through the Metro Addiction Assessment Referral Service at 416 599-1448.
Information about substance use treatment programs in Ontario is available from the Drug and Alcohol Registry of Treatment (now part of ConnexOntario). DART's database of program descriptions and contact information for drug and alcohol programs is available online or by calling the information line at 1 800 565-8603.
Last updated:
Friday, November 2, 2007 5:04 PM
DISCLAIMER: Information on this site is not to be used for diagnosis, treatment or referral services and CAMH does not provide diagnostic, treatment or referral services through the Internet. Individuals should contact their personal physician, and/or their local addiction or mental health agency for further information.