Outpatient psychotherapy of substance use disorders: Broadened options after revision of the psychotherapy guidelines in 2011

Abstract

Background: The revision of the psychotherapy guidelines in 2011 broadened the options for treating substance use disorders (SUD) in outpatient psychotherapy (OP).Aim. The aims of this study were to answer the following questions: how frequently are SUDs treated in OP? What opinions do psychotherapists (PT) hold concerning the new treatment possibilities?

Material and methods: In this study the frequency of OP for patients with SUD, e.g. harmful use and abuse of as well as dependence on psychotropic substances according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10), by private practice PTs as well as their attitude towards the treatment of patients with these diagnoses were investigated. Private practice PTs in five states in East Germany were asked to participate in a postal survey.

Results: Of the 1,382 PTs contacted, 229 (16.6 %) participated in the study. Of the respondents 94.3 % had treated at least one patient with SUD (4-week prevalence including nicotine dependence). These rates ranged from 3.1 % to 26.6 % depending on the substance and diagnosis (SUD as primary reason for treatment). The highest rates of strong affirmation for OP of approximately 20% were found for disorders related to alcohol, tobacco and medication.

Conclusion: Most PTs treated at least one patient with SUD in OP. However, this particular type of treatment offer should be further extended. Information about the options of treating SUD in OP should be further disseminated and conducting such treatment should be supported by (e.g.) therapist training.