Dual-Diagnosis Treatment

PTSD and Substance Abuse Treatment in California

Integrated treatment for co-occurring PTSD and substance use disorder at Keystone Health Group in Los Angeles.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder are among the most common co-occurring conditions — and among the most challenging to treat. Research suggests that 30–60% of people seeking addiction treatment have PTSD, and PTSD significantly worsens addiction outcomes when left untreated. At Keystone Health Group, our trauma-informed dual-diagnosis team provides integrated treatment for co-occurring PTSD and addiction, using evidence-based therapies that address both conditions simultaneously.

The PTSD-Addiction Cycle

PTSD symptoms — flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, emotional numbing — are profoundly distressing. Substances offer temporary relief from these symptoms. But substance use worsens PTSD over time by impairing sleep, increasing emotional reactivity, and preventing the natural processing of traumatic memories. This cycle requires integrated treatment.

Evidence-Based PTSD Treatment

The most effective treatments for PTSD are trauma-focused therapies: EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), prolonged exposure (PE), and cognitive processing therapy (CPT). Our therapists are trained in these evidence-based approaches and integrate them into the addiction treatment plan.

Trauma-Informed Care

All care at Keystone Health Group is delivered through a trauma-informed lens — recognizing the prevalence of trauma, understanding its impact, and avoiding re-traumatization. This approach is essential for clients with PTSD, who may be triggered by aspects of the treatment environment.

Signs & Symptoms of Addiction

Flashbacks and intrusive memories

Nightmares and sleep disturbances

Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response

Emotional numbing and detachment

Using substances to manage PTSD symptoms

Avoidance of trauma reminders

Irritability and anger outbursts

History of trauma

Our Treatment Approach

EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)

Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy

Cognitive processing therapy (CPT)

Trauma-informed CBT

Psychiatric evaluation for PTSD medications (SSRIs, prazosin)

Integrated dual-diagnosis treatment planning

Safety planning

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PTSD be treated during addiction treatment?

Yes. Integrated treatment of PTSD and addiction produces better outcomes than sequential treatment. Our trauma-informed team addresses both conditions simultaneously.

Is EMDR effective for PTSD?

Yes. EMDR is one of the most evidence-based treatments for PTSD, recognized by the WHO, VA, and APA as a first-line treatment.

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