If a dually-diagnosed client wishes to quit smoking while on medication, what should the counselor do?

Consulting with the client's physician regarding the interaction between nicotine and medication is crucial. This approach ensures that the counselor respects the medical aspects of the client’s treatment, especially since the client is dually diagnosed and may be on medication for their mental health condition. Medications can interact with nicotine, either diminishing their effectiveness or exacerbating side effects, which could pose risks to the client's health.

By involving the physician, the counselor ensures a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the client’s health. This collaboration can lead to tailored strategies for smoking cessation that consider the client’s current medications and overall treatment goals. Understanding these interactions helps in offering advice that is not only safe but also effective, thereby enhancing the likelihood of successful smoking cessation while maintaining the integrity of the client's mental health treatment. Additionally, consulting the physician promotes a team-based approach to the client's care, fostering better communication and support systems for the client’s recovery journey.