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This study was done to figure out the best way to help people with alcohol-related problems using ICBT. We wanted to see if talking to a therapist before starting therapy and getting guidance during therapy would make a difference.
In the study, we gave people access to an online therapy program for alcohol misuse. Some people had a talk with a therapist before starting therapy, some got guidance during therapy, and some got both. We also collected information about their drinking habits and how they were feeling.
We found that everyone in the study reduced their alcohol consumption, but having a talk with a therapist before starting therapy or getting guidance during therapy didn’t make a big difference in reducing alcohol use.
Future research could look into other ways to make ICBT more effective for alcohol misuse. This could include adding more support during therapy or finding ways to keep people motivated throughout the treatment. We also would like to explore how ICBT can help with other substance use problems like cannabis use.
Sundström,C., Peynenburg, V., Chadwick, C., Thiessen, D., Wilhelms, A., Nugent, M., Keough, M.T., Schaub, M.P., & Hadjistavropoulos, H.D. (2022). Optimizing internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for alcohol misuse – A randomized factorial trial examining effects of a pre-treatment assessment interview and guidance. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13722-022-00319-0