Understanding the therapeutic factors of the initial treatment phase in a residential treatment setting: a qualitative approach

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to understand deeply the important elements of the initial phase of treatment. This is important mainly because the retention of patients at the beginning of treatment is associated with better therapeutic results. Design/methodology/approach The participants were 14 people suffering from addiction to drugs who attended a residential treatment program that follows the principles of therapeutic communities. The data obtained by semi-structured interview were qualitatively analyzed by interpretive phenomenological analysis. Findings The results showed the importance and value of the group as a therapeutic tool, highlighted the consequences of long-term substance use, optimism as the main emotion and confirmed the controversial role of social support. Originality/value The value of the study lies in highlighting the important therapeutic elements of the initial treatment phase through the way the patients themselves experience them. The results are discussed on the basis of the enhancement of the therapeutic interventions that are followed at this initial treatment stage.