Evidence-based Counseling Modalities for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs)-Recording - Evidence-based Counseling Modalities for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Professor Antoine Dwehi from the University of Pittsburgh provides an extensive overview of evidence-based treatments (EBTs) and practices (EBPs) for substance use disorders (SUDs). He emphasizes the critical distinction between treatment efficacy (controlled settings) and effectiveness (real-world application) and the increasing requirement by funding agencies for EBTs in addiction care. Historically, many addiction treatments lacked scientific support, relying on confrontational or purely 12-step approaches, which often yielded negative outcomes. EBTs, however, are defined by rigorous research, typically randomized controlled trials, consistent replication, and explicit treatment protocols.<br /><br />Key evidence-based behavioral therapies discussed include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), contingency management (CM), community reinforcement approaches, and relapse prevention counseling. These interventions are effective across various substances (alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, benzodiazepines). The role of pharmacotherapy, especially for opioid and alcohol use disorders, is stressed, along with the importance of integrating behavioral and medical treatments.<br /><br />The talk also highlights challenges in implementing EBTs, including provider resistance, system barriers, and the need for ongoing training and supportive organizational structures. Ultimately, patient-centered, empathic delivery of treatment enhances outcomes. Dwehi underscores that substance use disorders require chronic disease models of care with comprehensive, continuous engagement rather than punitive or discharging strategies. The session concludes advocating for wider adoption and dissemination of scientifically validated addiction treatments to improve public health.

Keywords

evidence-based treatments

substance use disorders

cognitive behavioral therapy

motivational interviewing

contingency management

pharmacotherapy

addiction care

treatment efficacy vs effectiveness

chronic disease model