Non-Pharmacological Components in Integrated Treatment for Patients with Dual Diagnosis: A Scoping Review

J Dual Diagn. 2025 Apr;21(2):120-141. doi: 10.1080/15504263.2025.2478900. Epub 2025 Mar 20.

Abstract

Objective: To examine how non-pharmacological integrated treatment components are presented in the literature, to facilitate high-quality dual diagnosis treatment and support informed decision-making in the development of integrated treatment facilities. Methods: A literature search was conducted in databases Ovid/Embase, PubMed, CINAHL focusing on intervention studies published between 2013 and 2023, describing integrated treatment for patients with dual diagnosis. A six-stage methodological framework for scoping reviews was used for selection and analysis of the papers included. Results: Twenty-six studies were included. Most integrated interventions were group therapy sessions guided by CBT or MI, however there was a large heterogeneity in the remaining core components and outcome measurements. Staff competence was often vaguely defined and described. Conclusions: The heterogeneity of the studies included influences reproductivity and comparability which makes it challenging to condense firm recommendations and point directions for design of treatment and scientific practice.

Keywords: Dual diagnosis; integrated treatment; non-pharmacological; psychiatry; psychosis; substance use.

Publication types

  • Scoping Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods
  • Diagnosis, Dual (Psychiatry)
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders* / therapy
  • Substance-Related Disorders* / therapy