BACKGROUND:

Nearly 50% of individuals experiencing first episode psychosis (FEP) meet criteria for a lifetime alcohol use or substance use disorder. Coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs for FEP work on addressing individuals' psychiatric symptoms and quality of life through family-based therapy, individual therapy, medication management, and supported employment and education. Moreover, individuals engaging in CSC programs who have a comorbidity of alcohol use or cannabis use disorders had significantly lower quality of life and more symptoms of psychosis than non-users. One of the most effective substance use intervention is contingency management (CM). CM is a behavioral intervention in which individuals receive positive incentives for biological samples indicating abstinence. 

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OBJECTIVE:

The aims of this study are to determine the treatment needs and possible barriers to implementation for a substance use intervention in CSC programs for FEP as well as the development of a sustainable, family-based CM intervention for youth experiencing FEP and substance use disorder in CSC programs. In the initial aim, we will be conducting semi-structured focus groups and interviews with providers, individuals experiencing FEP, and family members whose loved ones are experiencing FEP. This qualitative work will identify specific needs and barriers for CSC programs in implementing a substance use intervention and inform the family-based CM intervention in Washington State's CSC programs.  

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