Improving treatment engagement for individuals with psychosis and substance use issues through family involvement

Improving Treatment Engagement in Individuals with Co-occurring Substance Use and Psychosis: A Telemedicine Family-Based Approach

NIH-funded research Mclean Hospital · NIH-10861823

This study is looking at how involving family members in treatment can help young people who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis and also dealing with substance use issues, using telemedicine to make it easier for everyone to connect and support each other.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMclean Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Belmont, United States)
Project IDNIH-10861823 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing treatment engagement for individuals experiencing first episode psychosis (FEP) who also struggle with substance use disorders. It employs a telemedicine approach that involves family members in the treatment process, utilizing the Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT) model. By engaging families as motivators for change, the study aims to improve adherence to treatment and reduce substance use among this vulnerable population. The methodology includes telehealth sessions that facilitate communication and support between patients and their families.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing first episode psychosis who also have a history of substance use disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a co-occurring substance use disorder or are not experiencing first episode psychosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment adherence and reduced substance use for individuals with co-occurring psychosis and substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that family involvement can significantly enhance treatment engagement for substance use disorders, indicating a promising approach for this population.

Where this research is happening

Belmont, 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.