This study evaluated the effectiveness of procedures designed to prepare alcoholics for treatment. The two procedures of interest - a role induction session or a motivational interview session - were compared to a no preparation control condition. The interventions were designed to prevent early dropout and improve treatment outcome. Preliminary results indicate that receiving the motivational interview preparatory session was associated with greater rates of attendance at subsequent individual and group treatment sessions, relative to those not receiving a preparatory session. In addition, clients receiving the motivational preparatory session, relative to those not receiving a preparatory session, had fewer heavy drinking days during a 12-month follow-up period. Funded by a grant of $840,731 from NIAAA, 1994-98.
