Dually diagnosed young adults: Who are they and how can we help them?

Title : Dually diagnosed young adults: Who are they and how can we help them?

Abstract:

Recent policy and legislative changes have contributed to two important changes in the substance abuse treatment community: increased access to care for many young adults and the need to develop effective outcomes information. Organizations that can consistently present valid and reliable information regarding patient outcomes and satisfaction will thrive in the new healthcare environment. This presentation will focus the emerging adult population, ages 18-25, and identify differences revealed in this population: in their presentation, retention in residential treatment and their outcomes following treatment. Data are drawn from several years of research at Foundations Recovery Network residential facilities. Implications for practice will be reviewed including specific attention to the role of length of stay in young adults.

Audience Take Away:

• Identify key components of outcome-informed treatment.

• Identify differentiating characteristics in young adults

• Identify factors impacting treatment retention in younger adults and the role of length of stay

• Demonstrate actual one-year outcomes post-treatment in young adults

• Review implications for designing and implementing effective treatment practices.

Biography:

Siobhan holds a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration from Florida International University. While at FIU, she participated in a number of research projects including a National Institute of Mental Health/Mental Health Statistic Improvement Project (NIMH/ MHSIP) Project focusing on the severely and persistently mentally ill; United States Department of Education (USDOE) evaluations; and local evaluations of at-risk youth. As an Adjunct Professor at Florida International University, Siobhan taught Program Planning and Evaluation for the College of Urban and Public Affairs. She also served as a Lead Coordinator in the joint United Way, Children Now and Dade Community Foundation Project entitled “Report Card on the Status of Children’s Services in Dade County”, where she pioneered the use of report card technologies. Siobhan earned her certification as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) from the Associates of Clinical Pharmacology and conducted over 100 clinical trials with major pharmaceutical companies investigating new and promising treatments. She holds her certifications as an ARISE Interventionist and as a Master Addiction Counselor. Siobhan is the currently the UHS Addiction Services Division Director of Clinical Services which includes her former role as Director of Research and Fidelity