A Brief Values Intervention to Support Veterans in Early Buprenorphine Treatment

The initial intervention structure consists of four weekly sessions. Session one focuses on values clarification using an empirically validated clinical exercise. The second session will include a discussion of the connection between values, addiction treatment engagement, and the challenges associated with discomfort (i.e., withdrawal and cravings) in early treatment. The third session will focus on barriers and goal setting to enhance self-efficacy for committed action. The final session will review progress made and focus on the Veterans' recovery plan moving forward. The initial study intervention will be refined iteratively using Phase 1 stakeholder and Phase 2 open trial participant feedback.

Veterans will be recruited from an intensive treatment phase where all Veterans receive case management and regular group therapy in addition to appointments with their buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone prescriber. After the first two weeks, they have the option to continue with a less intensive group schedule and case management support through an Aftercare program.