Adapting a blended motivational interviewing and problem-solving intervention to address risky substance use amongst South Africans

Psychother Res. 2015;25(4):435-44. doi: 10.1080/10503307.2014.897770. Epub 2014 Apr 8.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the acceptability and initial substance use outcomes of a blended motivational interviewing (MI) and problem-solving therapy (PST) intervention, delivered by peer counsellors. Twenty people who scored at risk for substance use according to the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) received a five session blended MI-PST intervention and were assessed at baseline and at three months. An open-ended semi-structured interview, designed to identify possible factors that may hinder or promote the acceptability of the intervention was also conducted. Fifteen participants completed the intervention and the three-month follow-up. According to ASSIST scores, participants significantly reduced their substance use (p > 0.001) at the three-month follow-up. Randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the effect of this intervention more rigorously.

Keywords: South Africa; emergency departments; motivational interviewing; problem-solving therapy; task shifting.

Publication types

  • Clinical Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Depression / psychology
  • Emergency Service, Hospital*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening
  • Motivational Interviewing / methods*
  • Problem Solving*
  • Psychotherapy, Brief / methods
  • South Africa
  • Substance-Related Disorders / diagnosis
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*
  • Young Adult