THE WJCS TREATMENT FOR CO-OCCURRING MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

The number of people suffering from both mental health and substance use disorders is skyrocketing, with approximately 21.5 million adults in the United States experiencing these co-occurring conditions, according to SAMHSA’s 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Unfortunately, the result of experiencing both disorders can be tragic. Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS), the largest provider of licensed outpatient mental health services in Westchester, is now providing comprehensive integrative, evidence-based treatment for county residents experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. 

“People suffering from co-occurring mental health and substance use problems often experience severe and chronic challenges regarding their medical and emotional health, social relationships, and work and financial stability. The interactions between the two disorders can worsen the course of both. As each condition impacts the other, it’s most effective that they be treated with a comprehensive integrated approach that addresses both simultaneously,” said W. Andrew Mullane, Ph.D., director of Innovation, Integration, and Community Partnerships at WJCS.

“Our goal is to remove barriers to treatment,” said Mullane. “Unfortunately, many people with co-occurring conditions don’t know where to go for treatment. We want all people in Westchester who are suffering with mental health and substance use challenges to know we are here for them. Whereas many substance-use treatment organizations do not accept insurance, WJCS makes the highest quality comprehensive evidence-based treatment affordable by participating in a number of commercial and government-sponsored insurance plans, assuring both substance-involved individuals and their families receive the support they need and deserve.”

Westchester residents who seek treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance-use disorders are offered a variety of treatments and supports at WJCS.

Westchester Jewish Community Services has been serving those most vulnerable in Westchester County since its founding in 1943. It is a nonsectarian, not-for-profit, trauma-informed human service agency and its mission is to help people of all ages and backgrounds cope with emotional, cognitive, environmental, physical, interpersonal, social and educational challenges.