Treatment of Alcohol and Other Drug Disorders in Europe: Four Case Studies

Abstract

A case study approach reviewed 4 alcohol/other drug disorders treatment agencies in Europe. Outstanding substance abuse treatment agencies in Europe are adopting motivational interviewing and cognitive behavior therapy similar to their counterparts in the United States. They also are moving toward a harm reduction approach in recognizing that alcohol/other drug dependency is a chronic illness that must be treated on a recurring basis. Some unique strategies provide ideas for improvement of U.S. programs. However, a common barrier to improving treatment is a lack of capacity to collect and use data and difficulties in following clients after they leave treatment.Katherine J. Riley (rileyk@ohsu.edu) is affiliated with the