ASAP-ID: substance abuse programme for a forensic ID population

Abstract

Purpose There are a lack of recourses for substance abuse (SA) treatment for forensic clients with intellectual disabilities (ID). Many complexities arise when treating this population, calling for the creation of comprehensive resources which not only address the SA, but also account for the risk and offending issues. The purpose of this paper is to detail a pilot programme which aims to provide treatment for forensic ID clients with substance abuse issues as well as a significant risk of reoffending. Design/methodology/approach Six participants completed a 27-week SA treatment programme (the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Programme-Intellectual Disability) which incorporated the use of dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) and the Good Lives Model concepts. Pre- and post-measures aimed to assess readiness for change and confidence in ability to stay clean and sober. Findings Preliminary findings showed a marked improvement in confidence of the participants’ ability to stay clean and sober in risk-related situations as well as an increase in overall readiness for change. Originality/value This research paper addresses a gap in the current forensic ID research and clinical treatment options pertaining to SA, by focussing on supporting forensic ID clients in their recovery journey from SA. Being at the forefront of SA treatment for forensic ID, further research in this domain should attempt to consolidate the findings of this programme.

Substance use disorders in people with intellectual disability

“…Substance use may be especially high in clients residing in forensic treatment settings [7,31]. A study was published on the feasibility of a 27-week treatment program called Alcohol and Substance Abuse Programme-Intellectual Disability based on principles of dialectical behavior therapy and the Good Lives model [32]. Data in six participants were collected at pre and posttreatment and results show an improvement in participants' confidence to stay clean in risk-related situations and their readiness to change.…”

Does the good lives model work? A systematic review of the recidivism evidence

“…The model has also been adopted widely across Australasia, where it has informed the treatment culture of many correctional facilities (O’Sullivan, 2014). Application of the GLM has also been extended beyond its intended use with sex offenders, for example, within substance use programmes (Sakdalan, 2017), with mentally disordered offenders (Barnao, 2013), intellectually disabled offenders (Aust, 2010), indigenous offenders (Leaming and Willis, 2016), young offenders (Fortune, 2018) and both male and female generalist offenders (Van Damme et al , 2020). All these noted populations have distinct criminogenic needs (Taxman and Caudy, 2015).…”