A Scoping Review of Family-Based Interventions in Drug and Alcohol Services: Implications for Social Work Practice

Abstract

Despite the use of family-based interventions in drug and alcohol services, there has been no comprehensive review of the benefits and challenges in implementing family-based interventions in routine drug and alcohol services. A scoping study methodology was used to systematically search evidence concerning family-based interventions within drug and alcohol services. This review found positive evidentiary support regarding the use of family-based interventions; however, the drug and alcohol sector remains largely individually focused. This review highlights some implications in promoting family-based interventions in routine practice and supports social workers to work with both substance misusers and their families holistically.

KEYWORDS:

• drug and alcohol
• family program
• family therapy
• scoping review
• substance use

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.