Computer-based training for cognitive behavioral therapy for Spanish-speaking substance users: adaptation and satisfaction

Abstract

There are few available culturally and linguistically adapted behavioral health interventions for substance use among Spanish-speaking adults. The authors describe the cultural adaptation of an innovative computer-based training for cognitive behavioral therapy program (CBT4CBT). Based in cognitive-behavioral skills training, CBT4CBT utilizes a telenovela to teach monolingual Spanish-speaking adults who have migrated to the United States to recognize triggers; avoid these situations; and cope more effectively with the consequences of substance use. Participants endorsed high levels of satisfaction with the program content and found the material to be easy to understand and relevant to their life experiences.

Keywords:

• Latinx/Hispanic
• substance use
• computer-based treatment
• cognitive behavioral therapy
• cultural adaptation

Notes

1 For purposes of this paper, the term Latinx refers to individuals of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Dominican, Central and South American, and Spanish descent. In addition, we are referring to Spanish-speaking individuals who have migrated to the United States. For the plural version, we are using Latino/as given the inconsistency and variability in preferred terminology for the plural form of Latinx. We intend to be inclusive in this choice.

Additional information

Funding

Support provided by the National Institute of Drug Abuse grant (1R01DA030369-01A1).