Treating the whole person: clinical psychologist Logan Harvey on comorbidity in practice
Tara Gückel, Jayden Sercombe, Beth Bareham, Logan R. HarveyPurpose
The purpose of this viewpoint is to demystify common misconceptions clinicians may hold about working with people experiencing co-occurring anxiety or trauma and substance use conditions. It aims to provide clear, actionable guidance for therapists and clinicians supporting this population.
Design/methodology/approach
This viewpoint presents an interview conducted by Drs. Tara Gückel and Jayden Sercombe with experienced clinical psychologist Logan Harvey. A narrative analysis approach was applied to synthesise key themes and recommendations for clinical practice.
Findings
This viewpoint highlights a transdiagnostic approach and evidence-based treatments, including eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy, for addressing co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns. Drawing on over a decade of clinical experience, Logan offers practical insights and emphasises that many clinicians already possess the core skills needed to work effectively with this population.
Originality/value
This paper challenges a persistent barrier in the field – the assumption that individuals with substance use concerns should be excluded from mental health treatment until their alcohol or other drug use is resolved. By presenting interventions that are appropriate and effective for co-occurring presentations, this viewpoint promotes integrated care and reinforces clinicians’ existing capacity to support this population. It offers a timely, practice-focused contribution that reframes comorbidity treatment as both accessible and achievable within routine clinical work.