Effectiveness of The Seven Challenges® for adults: It’s not just because of self-disclosure

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined the longer-term effectiveness of The Seven Challenges® Program, a comprehensive counseling program that incorporates work on drug and co-occurring problems. This study also examined the role of self-disclosure in achieving positive outcomes for adult drug court clients. Results indicated that The Seven Challenges Program elicited more self-disclosure and was more effective than standard cognitive-behavioral treatment in sustained reduction of alcohol use, mental distress, emotional problems, and behavioral issues to 6 months post-intake. Additionally, The Seven Challenges Program was effective at reducing criminal activity. Greater self-disclosure among The Seven Challenges clients accounted for their greater perceived impact of treatment, but not for the effectiveness of The Seven Challenges relative to standard cognitive-behavioral treatment. These findings strengthen the existing evidence base of the effectiveness of The Seven Challenges.