Psychotherapies for trauma and substance abuse in women: review and policy implications

Trauma Violence Abuse. 2009 Jul;10(3):290-8. doi: 10.1177/1524838009334455. Epub 2009 May 27.

Abstract

Women are subject to high rates of interpersonal violence. One frequent co-occurring issue is substance abuse, which may arise posttrauma as a way to cope. In this article, psychosocial therapies for co-occurring trauma and substance abuse are reviewed. Description of empirically studied models is provided, as well as results of the empirical studies. Overall, this area of work suggests positive growth in the availability of new models but very limited empirical work thus far for all but one model. Directions for the future include the need for greater study of treatments in this area, as well as the need to address issues beyond specific models (e.g., workforce issues, access to care, and changing the culture of treatment systems). Policy implications are also offered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Battered Women / psychology
  • Counseling / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Needs Assessment / organization & administration
  • Professional-Patient Relations
  • Psychotherapy, Group / methods*
  • Spouse Abuse / statistics & numerical data
  • Spouse Abuse / therapy*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Substance Abuse Treatment Centers / organization & administration
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*
  • Women's Health*