A qualitative evaluation of an assisted self-help group for drug-addicted clients in a structured outpatient treatment setting

We conducted a qualitative evaluation of a semi-structured, client-led supp ort group that addressed drug use recovery issues and was assisted by a psy chological consultant. Seven regular group members and their counselors wer e interviewed about the effect of the assisted self-help group on drug use and the clients' quality of life, and these interviews were content analyze d. In addition, the psychological consultant made group process observation s for each session of the first three months. Clients reported group streng ths as: Feeling supported and understood, being able to speak freely withou t fear of staff reprisals, obtaining information/feedback, improved mood, a nd decreased drug use. With the provision of professional support and guida nce, this group shows promise as an adjunct to standard outpatient drug abu se treatment by allowing for some degree of client independence and extendi ng the scarce resource of professional counseling.