Internet-based vs Face-to-face Treatment for Alcohol Dependence

Internet-based vs Face-to-face Treatment for Alcohol Dependence: A Randomised, Controlled Non-inferiority Trial

A brief treatment program (MI/CBT) via face-to-face or via internet is tested in association with an outpatient addictions clinic.

A 5-module program based on motivational interviewing (MI) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is tested among help-seekers at one outpatient clinic within the Stockholm Center for Dependency Disorders: Riddargatan 1.The design is a two-armed randomized controlled non-inferiority study, and outcomes are measured in terms of changes in alcohol consumption, problematic alcohol use, alcohol dependence alcohol use disorder, anxiety, as well as depression and quality of life. 600 participants are recruited online from the clinic's website. Consenting participants will complete baseline questionnaires online and participate in face-to-face assessment by a physician at the clinic. Eligible individuals will then be randomized into one of two groups: 1.Internet-based treatment program with online counselor support. 2. Face-to-face treatment with 5 individual counselor sessions at the clinic. Follow-up will be conducted online after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months in both groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• AUDIT-score ≥16 points and/or fulfilling at least 3 criteria of alcohol dependence (ICD-10)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Risk of severe withdrawal symptoms.
• Risk of suicide.
• Other psychiatric diagnosis that requires current treatment.
• Need for medication for alcohol dependence.
• Inadequate Swedish language skills.
• No Internet access