Improving how patients start addiction treatment

Adapting intake procedures to improve treatment delivery in addiction treatment

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico · NIH-10868658

This study is looking at how using a friendly conversation technique called Motivational Interviewing can help people feel more engaged and supported when they first start addiction treatment, making it easier for them to stick with the program.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868658 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the initial intake process for addiction treatment by replacing traditional assessments with an evidence-based intervention called Motivational Interviewing (MI). The goal is to improve client engagement and retention in treatment programs, which often see high dropout rates. By integrating MI during the first contact with clients, the study aims to better understand their motivations for seeking help and facilitate a smoother entry into treatment. This approach is designed to make the treatment delivery system more effective and supportive for individuals seeking help with addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals seeking treatment for addiction who are at the initial stages of entering a treatment program.

Not a fit: Patients who are not seeking treatment for addiction or those who have already completed their intake process may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved retention rates in addiction treatment programs, helping more patients receive the care they need.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that Motivational Interviewing can effectively enhance patient engagement in treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield positive results.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.