The coexistence of mental illness and substance use disorder is known as a co-occurring disorder. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 8.4 million adults in the United States suffer from these disorders (SAMHSA, 2014). As a direct support professional, you may have the opportunity to work with persons who have co-occurring disorders. As such, this course is designed to provide basic information to help inform your daily work with the people you serve and to help you better understand the needs of this target population. You will gain knowledge about the most common risk and protective factors associated with co-occurring disorders, along with best practices. Practice exercises through interactive vignettes will help you to apply your new skills when you need it most in your own setting. DSM™ and DSM-5™ are registered trademarks of the American Psychiatric Association. The American Psychiatric Association is not affiliated with nor endorses this course.