Setting and Counselor Type as Related to Program Retention

Abstract

Study was made of the relationship between successful treatment outcome and staff: client ratios in two types of treatment settings. Successful treatment was defined as retention in treatment for at least 6 months and program completion. Using a total sample of 5,405 discharged clients, it was found that there were no differences in outcome between community mental health centers and dedicated drug abuse treatment programs for clients whose primary drug of abuse was either an opiate or a nonopiate exclusive of marijuana. Community mental health centers were significantly more likely to retain minority group marijuana clients 6 months or more to treatment completion while dedicated drug abuse programs were significantly more likely to retain White marijuana clients 6 months or more to treatment completion. No differences in outcome were found for any of the three client groups in relation to program emphasis on advanced-degreed professionals as compared to paraprofessionals.