The Feasibility of Goal Management Training to address cognitive impairment in an outpatient alcohol treatment population: findings from a novel case series

Abstract

Introduction and Aims. People with alcohol use disorder (AUD) exhibit high rates of comorbidity with cognitive deficits, particularly for executive function (EF). Cognitive impairment has previously been found to be related to poorer outcomes in substance use treatment. However, traditional interventions to improve cognitive function within this group have encountered both high attrition and low retention rates. This paper reports on the feasibility of providing a cognitive remediation intervention at an outpatient alcohol treatment service in Sydney, Australia. Design, Methods and Results. Due to lower-than-expected recruitment rates, the paper details a case series of five clients recruited to a 9-week group intervention using Goal Management Training (GMT; a structured program which targets EF). Clients engaged in the intervention presented with a range of deficits in their cognitive functioning at baseline. Despite positive comments from participants regarding the intervention, there was a high level of attrition, with only one participant remaining until the end of the program. Discussion and Conclusions. It is thus concluded that this program in its current form is not suitable for this cohort in this outpatient setting. Suggestions are made for tailoring GMT and other approaches to increase engagement and retention in future interventions.