The voices of female mental health professionals working with American Indians with co-occurring disorders: A constructivist grounded theory

The robust number of co-occurring disorders among American Indian (AI) populations within the United States constitutes a significant impact on AI communities. While this issue has been discussed in depth in academic literature, there is little discussion regarding how to treat these illnesses and no evidence-based practice. In order to identify treatments currently being utilized with American Indians with co-occurring diagnoses, a constructivist grounded theory approach was employed to discover treatments and strategies regarding the treatment of this specific population. Results suggest that a systemic, sociopolitical approach is necessary to address community needs, while a fusion of Western and Indigenous treatment methodologies provide the best resources for healing with individuals and families.