Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Practice

In the context of dual disorders, what is sequential treatment?

1. Treating both disorders simultaneously

2. Treating one disorder followed by the second disorder

3. A method focusing solely on the first disorder

4. An integrated approach to tackle all issues at once

The correct answer is: Treating one disorder followed by the second disorder

Sequential treatment refers to an approach in which one disorder is addressed first, followed by the treatment of the second disorder. This method is often used in cases where the presence of one disorder can significantly impact the treatment and recovery from the other. For instance, a person with both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder may first receive treatment for the substance use issue, as it can facilitate a clearer pathway for addressing the mental health condition afterward. By prioritizing one disorder at a time, practitioners can streamline the care process and potentially achieve better treatment outcomes for each condition. While other treatment models are available, such as simultaneous treatment where both disorders are treated at the same time, sequential treatment is distinct in its structured, step-by-step approach. It emphasizes the importance of stabilizing the first disorder to create a more effective environment for addressing the second.