Advisory

Intensive Outpatient Treatment for People with Stimulant Use Disorders
Outlined in New SAMHSA Publication Package

A structured approach for treating adults who abuse or are dependent on methamphetamine or cocaine is outlined in the new publications package Matrix Intensive Outpatient Treatment for People with Stimulant Use Disorders (IOP) released today by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

The Matrix IOP Model is a comprehensive package that provides substance abuse treatment professionals with a yearlong intensive outpatient model for clients and their families: 16 weeks of structured programming and 36 weeks of continuing care. Clients receive information, assistance in structuring a substance-free lifestyle, and support to achieve and maintain abstinence from drugs and alcohol. The program specifically focuses on clients who are dependent on methamphetamine and cocaine and their families.

The Matrix IOP package includes:

• Counselor’s Treatment Manual;

• Counselor’s Family Education Manual;

• CD-Rom that accompanies the Counselor’s Family Education Manual;

• Client’s Handbook; and

• Client’s Treatment Companion.

The Matrix IOP model familiarizes clients with 12-step programs and other support groups, teaches clients time management and scheduling skills and entails conducting regular drug and breath-alcohol testing. The approach followed in the treatment package was developed by the Matrix Institute in Los Angeles and adapted by SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Treatment . The treatment approach presented in this publication is evidence-based and was tested and evaluated during the SAMHSA/CSAT-sponsored Methamphetamine Treatment Project.

Copies of the publication package are available free of charge from SAMHSA’s National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) at 800-729-6686 or electronically through www.ncadi.samhsa.gov.

SAMHSA, is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation’s substance abuse prevention, addictions, treatment, and mental health services delivery system.

SAMHSA is An Agency of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Service