The Complex Needs Of Substance Use & Mental Health

Footprints offers a comprehensive Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) designed to support individuals struggling with substance use disorders (SUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions. The program combines structured classes, therapy groups, and personalized care to foster lasting recovery. Key services include recovery coaching, relapse counseling, case management, drug testing, and participation in 12-step meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous. Participants also engage in group and individual therapy, peer support, and receive referrals to additional community resources as needed.

The Urgent Need For Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Mental illness affects one in five adults nationwide, with rates significantly higher among incarcerated populations, where nearly 37% experience diagnosable mental health conditions. Trauma is common, with 75% of incarcerated adults reporting a history of trauma and over half experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These underlying issues often contribute to repeated offenses and substance use challenges.

In Kansas City, opioid overdose deaths are increasing sharply, especially among Black residents, who face an overdose death rate more than double the national average. From 2021 to 2022, opioid-related deaths among Black citizens rose by 52%, highlighting the urgent need for culturally responsive treatment and recovery support in this community.

Bridging The Treatment Gap

Despite the high prevalence of substance use disorders—over 900,000 Missourians reported SUD in 2021—access to treatment remains critically limited. Nearly 9 out of 10 individuals with SUD reported being unable to receive necessary treatment, far exceeding the national average of unmet treatment needs. More than half of those admitted for SUD treatment also have co-occurring mental health disorders, underscoring the need for integrated, dual diagnosis care.

Footprints is uniquely positioned to meet these gaps, particularly in Kansas City's urban core, where many residents are uninsured and face barriers to mental health services.

Recovery Beyond Treatment: Building Community & Support

 Research shows that long-term recovery success increases when individuals connect with supportive communities after treatment. Footprints’ Wayne D. White Center provides this critical peer-based recovery support, helping individuals maintain sobriety through connection, mentorship, and ongoing encouragement. This program is expanding to reach more people in the larger community, fostering resilience and reducing relapse rates.

A Holistic, Trauma-Informed Approach

Understanding that trauma and mental health are often intertwined with substance use, Footprints employs trauma-informed care principles throughout its programs. This approach respects each participant’s unique experiences and focuses on healing both the mind and body, creating a foundation for sustained recovery.

Locations

Click on the window icon (upper right corner) of the map below to expand. List of all program locations is included with expanded view of map. Locations are also listed on this page below the map.