Twelve-Step–Based Interventions Are at Least as Good as Other Treatments

Spirituality plays an important role in recovery from substance use disorders. These researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 20 randomized, controlled trials (N=3700) of spiritual- or religious-based (S/R) interventions for substance use problems. Controls could be inactive or active (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy [CBT], acceptance and commitment therapy, methadone maintenance, family-of-origin therapy, group drug counseling, guided imagery, or motivational enhancement therapy). The meta-analysis excluded mindfulness-based interventions or those designed to increase 12-step fellowship or attendance through referral. In addition to substance use problems, psycho-social-spiritual outcomes were analyzed, as these have been consistently s…