A staged programme approach for alcohol dependence: Cognitive behaviour therapy groups for detoxification preparation and aftercare – Preliminary findings

Abstract

In the UK, most emphasis has been given to the treatment of drugs misuse. Evidence suggests that service provision for alcohol dependence is far from adequate. We describe the preliminary findings from a structured community programme for alcohol dependence. Issues of provision and effectiveness are discussed. Treatment capacity has increased by 123% in 2 years. Detoxification completion has increased by 67% after the first year of implementation. The preparation group had an average number of attendees of 7.2 per session, whereas the relapse prevention group had 4. These results suggest that a structured programme based on groups could be effective.