Culturally adapted group therapy for substance use disorders and their caregivers

Effectiveness of Culturally Adapted Group Cognitive Behavior Therapy on Adults With Substance Use Disorders and Their Caregivers: A Randomized Control Trial From Pakistan

Not applicable Interventional National University of Modern Languages · NCT06462131

This study is testing a special group therapy designed for people with substance use disorders and their caregivers in Pakistan to see if it can improve their mental health and well-being.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment12 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 64 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational University of Modern Languages Academic / other
Locations5 sites (Quetta, Balochistan and 4 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06462131 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to address the rising issue of substance use disorders (SUDs) in Pakistan by implementing culturally adapted group cognitive behavioral therapy (CaGCBT) for individuals diagnosed with SUDs and their caregivers. The intervention focuses on providing effective group therapy to improve the mental health and well-being of both patients and their families, who often experience significant psychological and economic burdens due to the disorder. Participants will be individuals aged 18-64 who have been detoxified for at least two months and can communicate in Urdu. The study will take place in various rehabilitation centers across Pakistan, targeting a critical public health issue in the region.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18-64 diagnosed with substance use disorders who have been detoxified for at least two months.

Not a fit: Patients with diagnosed physical or intellectual disabilities, or those with comorbid psychological disturbances, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the mental health outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders and alleviate the burden on their caregivers.

How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence supporting the effectiveness of group therapy for SUDs, this culturally adapted approach is relatively novel in the context of Pakistan.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosed individuals with substance use disorder within the age bracket of 18-64 years.
2. In-patient of rehabilitation center and detoxified for 2 months
3. Able to give written informed consent
4. Able to read and speak Urdu

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of a diagnosed physical or intellectual disability as it can prevent individuals from engaging with the intervention. This will be assessed by the research team at screening stage. Any disabilities will be identified by a relevant clinician (e.g., Psychiatrist).
2. Temporary resident unlikely to be available for follow-up
3. Being detoxified less than 2 months
4. Individuals with substance use disorder having follow up with rehabilitation center
5. Having Comorbidity with psychological disturbances like depression, anxiety etc.

Where this trial is running

Quetta, Balochistan and 4 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions TreatmentWaitlistGroup CBTSUDsCultural Adaptation
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.