ABSTRACT
The focus of this chapter will be on technology-assisted (TA) evidence-based treatment practices (EBPs) for substance use disorders. While there is much to report on the topic, our discussion will be limited to TA practices based largely on, or related to, limited-duration behavioral treatment practices. It is critically important for the reader to understand, however, that treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs) often requires more than limited-duration treatment episodes to produce the best outcomes. In addition to traditional talk or TA therapies, medication and self-help involvement are common, often critical components in the process of promoting and achieving long-term recovery from SUDs. While the use of medication to support recovery is not without controversy, there is clear evidence to support the efficacy of medication-assisted treatment for substance use and co-occurring disorders (Miller & Willbourne, 2002; Stuyt, Sajbel, & Allen, 2006). Additionally, the benefits of self-help involvement (e.g., 12-step, Rational Recovery) are significant and undeniable. Put simply, more people have successfully addressed problems related to SUDs through self-help than all formal treatment approaches combined in the United States (Vaillant, 1995).
