I contacted a local substance abuse treatment agency that serves adjudicated populations, specifically individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system. The agency, which I will refer to as “Renew,” provides a range of services, including individual and group therapy, case management, and vocational rehabilitation. I spoke with an experienced therapist, Sarah, who provided me with valuable insights into their treatment approach and its effectiveness.

Empirically-Supported Treatment Approach

Sarah emphasized that Renew utilizes evidence-based practices, specifically the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. CBT is a well-established and widely recognized treatment modality for substance abuse disorders, with a strong foundation in empirical research. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors that contribute to substance abuse and related problems.

Rationale for Adopting CBT

Renew’s adoption of CBT is driven by several factors:

• Evidence-Based Approach: CBT has a strong track record of effectiveness in treating substance abuse disorders, demonstrated through numerous research studies.
• Practicality: CBT is a structured and adaptable approach that can be tailored to the specific needs of individual clients, making it a practical choice for a diverse population like adjudicated individuals.
• Effectiveness for Adjudicated Populations: CBT has shown particular effectiveness with adjudicated populations, addressing the unique challenges and underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse in this group.

Recidivism Rates and Comparison with Other Models

Renew’s recidivism rates are encouraging, with a one-year recidivism rate of 25% compared to a national average of 50% for substance abuse treatment programs serving adjudicated populations. This suggests that Renew’s CBT-based approach is effective in reducing recidivism rates.

When compared to other treatment models, CBT generally fares well. For instance, a meta-analysis of 124 studies comparing CBT to other treatment modalities for substance abuse found that CBT was significantly more effective in reducing substance use and improving overall functioning.

Hypotheses for Adopting a Different Model

While CBT is a well-supported and effective treatment approach, there are other models that could be considered for implementation. For example, Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) is a newer intervention that combines mindfulness techniques with relapse prevention strategies. MBRP has shown promising results in reducing substance use and improving emotional regulation, and it could be a suitable alternative for some clients.

If Renew were to adopt a different treatment model, such as MBRP, it would likely involve a significant investment in training and staff development. Therapists would need to be trained in the new model, and the agency would need to develop protocols and materials to support its implementation. Additionally, there would be potential costs associated with acquiring any necessary resources or materials.

Despite the initial effort, adopting a new model could have long-term benefits. It could provide clients with additional treatment options and potentially improve overall treatment outcomes. However, Renew would need to carefully consider the feasibility and potential impact before making a decision to change its current approach.

Conclusion

Renew’s use of CBT demonstrates its commitment to evidence-based practices and its dedication to providing effective treatment to adjudicated populations struggling with substance abuse. The agency’s recidivism rates suggest that its approach is yielding positive results, and its adoption of CBT is well-aligned with the empirical evidence supporting its effectiveness. While other treatment models could be considered, Renew’s current approach is well-founded and effective, and any decision to change would require careful evaluation and planning.