Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR)
Program Description
Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) is a mutual-aid, self-help program for adults who have been diagnosed with both a mental illness and a substance use disorder. In a mutual-aid program, people help each other address a common problem, usually in a group led by consumer facilitators rather than by professional treatment or service providers. DTR is adapted from the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous; however, DTR groups are structured with the intent of creating an environment in which people with an active addiction and psychiatric diagnosis can identify with other members and explore their dual recovery needs.
DTR meetings follow the traditional 12-step format, which includes group member introductions, a presentation by a speaker with experiences similar to those of the meeting attendees, readings by group members about DTR, and time for all attendees to share their experiences with the group. Meetings typically last between 60 and 90 minutes. DTR encourages members to discuss their addictions, mental illness, psychotropic medications, and experiences with formal treatment without the stigma they might encounter in traditional 12-step programs, which have a single focus.