Researchers: Kathlene Tracy, PhD, Mark A. Burton, MA, John Rotrosen, MD, Adam Wolkin, MD, Antonio Abad, MD, David Ruhland, PhD, Michael Kramer, PhD and others

This program is based on the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA). The goal of the program is to reduce patients’ psychiatric and substance abuse symptoms by making changes in their daily environment to promote healthier lifestyles. Substance use or symptoms is seen as being maintained by the reinforcing properties of its subjective effects, social rewards, physical sensations, and dependence inducing qualities and is reduced if other competing reinforces are maximized such as satisfying work, increased valued community roles, improved social relationships, and improved socioeconomic status. The program promotes the development of innovative approaches that challenge belief systems about limits on patients’ capabilities to improve treatments, reduce associated stigma, and consequently provide environments where persons are more likely to adhere to treatments that match their particular goals in life.

Current Clinical Studies