A review of the matrix model of intensive outpatient treatment, smart recovery program, and alcoholics anonymous
Open Access
Author:
Stidham, Alexandra Nicole
Area of Honors:
Rehabilitation and Human Services
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Dr. Deirdre Elizabeth Mary O'sullivan, Thesis Supervisor Dr. Brandon Hunt, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
alcoholics anonymous SMART Recovery Matrix Model of Intensive Outpatient self-help group addiction treatment
Abstract:
Each year in the United States, substance abuse is responsible for over $400 billion in economic costs and as many as 500,000 deaths (Horgan, Skwara, & Strickler, 2001). With 30% of Americans meeting the DSM-IV-TR criteria for addiction at some point in their lives, the need for effective treatment is vast and pressing. Many people dealing with addiction find the prospect of sustained remission unattainable due to the chronic nature of the condition and the absence of one cure-all treatment method (Kelly & Yeterian, 2011). Although, there is much debate about the best technique for treatment, there do seem to be common therapeutic factors throughout all treatment modalities that correlate with long lasting abstinence. This paper will begin by examining the biopsychosocial risk factors that influence addiction, thus setting the groundwork for effective treatment options. The next portion of the paper will examine the Matrix Model of Intensive Outpatient Treatment in an attempt to point out both its shortcomings and effective qualities. The final portion of this paper compares Alcoholics Anonymous with the SMART Recovery program in an effort to analyze the overlap and disparities between the two types of mutual-help groups. Finally, the discussion interprets the implications of these findings for both mental health professionals and people seeking recovery.