Strategies for Improving Methadone Treatment Process and Outcomes

Abstract

Major findings are summarized for a program of research focused on therapeutic enhancements to methadone treatment. Cognitive, behavioral, and psychoeducational strategies for improving client engagement and counseling services are described. Evaluations focused on during-treatment performance and follow-up outcomes collected 1 year after discharge, with an emphasis on the impact of services delivered as well as client and counselor perceptions of one another. Interrelations were examined between treatment process components: therapeutic relationship between clients and counselors, service intensity and type, behavioral compliance of clients during treatment, and length of stay. Results showed enhanced counseling and length of time spent in treatment were related to treatment outcomes.