Evaluation of an e-therapy program for problem drinkers: a pilot study

Subst Use Misuse. 2010 Oct;45(12):2059-75. doi: 10.3109/10826084.2010.481701.

Abstract

An e-therapy program with therapist involvement for problem drinkers was evaluated in a population of 527 Dutch-speaking patients. In a pre-post design weekly alcohol consumption, alcohol-consumption-related health problems, and motivation were assessed. Although the dropout rate was high, patients showed a significant decrease of alcohol consumption and alcohol-consumption-related health complaints. Patients' satisfaction with the e-therapy program was high. The e-therapy program proved to be feasible and attracted patients who were otherwise unlikely to seek help. A randomized controlled trial has to provide more information about reasons for dropout, effectiveness, and the population that benefits most from the e-therapy program. The study's limitations are noted.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcoholism / therapy*
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Netherlands
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Pilot Projects
  • Program Evaluation*
  • Remote Consultation / methods*
  • Sex Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Treatment Outcome