The use of behavioural couple therapy and couple-based interventions in the treatment of substance use disorders

The association between relationship distress and substance use is often described as one of “reciprocal causality”, wherein substance use by one partner appears to contribute to conflict in the relationship, and at the same time, conflict in the relationship is a major contributor to substance use and relapse for the abusing partner. Despite strong research support for the efficacy of using Behavioural Couple Therapy (BCT) for substance use, couple interventions and BCT have limited use in the treatment of substance use disorders. This article outlines the empirical support and clinical rationale for the use of couple interventions like BCT to treat substance use problems.