The results showed that clients who underwent this integrated intensive outpatient treatment rated it highly, expressing high satisfaction with both the treatment programme and the efforts of the staff, as well as with the transformative processes that occurred.
In the category of strong relationships and a comprehensive treatment programme, clients described their satisfaction with the integrated intensive treatment, which included psychoeducation, group intervention, group sessions, individual therapy sessions, yoga, mindfulness, tai chi and acupuncture. The use of complementary methods is increasing internationally [16]. However, it is difficult to determine the exact frequency of their use in addiction care in Sweden. While several studies [e.g.17,18]. have suggested that the side effects of complementary methods are nearly non-existent, Olsson et al. [16], highlight the risk that the use of complementary methods may overshadow conventional care. Nevertheless, the use of complementary medicine and treatment is regulated by patient legislation [19], to ensure that such methods do not negatively affect primary treatment. The results demonstrated that integrated intensive addiction outpatient care enhances individuals’ self-perception and quality of life. Körkel [20] suggested that individuals with substance use disorders often lack the motivation to break free from addiction for life, primarily due to a poor self-image resulting from past unsuccessful attempts. The challenge with non-sustained motivation is akin to the goal of relapse prevention, which aims to bring about change. To increase individuals’ quality of life and strengthen their self-image, it is necessary for staff to have knowledge of the underlying factors contributing to their substance misuse [20]. Regarding the improved self-image and enhanced quality of life reported by the study participants, the results also revealed that the participants perceived group sessions as contributing to establishing connections and relationships with each other. The significance of the group dynamic can greatly impact the treatment process, particularly in fostering a sense of belonging and participation.
The study results also showed that clients experienced group sessions as contributing to building connections and relationships among them. The significance of the group can have a great impact during treatment, including fostering a sense of community and participation. Group therapy is a common recurring theme in addiction treatment, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [21]. The group becomes a forum for members to share their stories and perspectives and engage in discussions. Clients’ relationships with each other within a group are equally as important as their relationships with staff. Self-stigmatisation among individuals with substance use disorders often leads to low self-esteem, shame and a tendency to avoid seeking help. The group becomes a place where participants can find support from someone they can relate to, as suggested by Ripley and Welfare [21]. Being included in a group can help break the loneliness that many individuals may feel. Although the clients in this study praised their groups, it is important to note that group sessions can also create discomfort for some individuals. There can be a fear of being confronted and judged by the group, especially in relation to relapse [21]. A group in which members feel uncomfortable hardly has the same positive effect as a group in which everyone feels secure; hence, the individuals’ words about the group experience carry weight. This can be related to the responses to the quantitative questions, in which the answers indicated that the majority of clients were very satisfied with their experiences at the treatment facility. They also expressed a high level of assimilating information, indicating overall satisfaction.
In the category of committed, knowledgeable staff who lead with warmth, the clients highlighted the significant role of the staff and their person-centred approach. Kermode [22] previously emphasised the importance of staff considering each person’s strengths, desires and goals instead of viewing participants as a homogeneous group of ‘substance users’. The results described how the staff played a significant role in creating positive experiences for the clients. Thanks to the warm approach, engagement and support of the staff, the clients felt seen and heard. The staff’s contribution to the positive experience can be linked to person-centred care [23]. The strong relationship between clients and staff was mentioned several times in the clients’ evaluations. It was evident that the staff’s warmth and openness conveyed a sense of security and stability, allowing clients who may have felt uneasy in group settings to relax. The motivation to complete the treatment programme was greatly influenced by the alliance built between clients and staff. To find meaning during treatment, it is important for individuals to feel comfortable with staff and accepted for who they are. Previous research supports the significance of the therapeutic relationship [24], highlighting that a therapeutic relationship depends on vulnerabilities from both sides. The client’s vulnerability lies in their need for help from the staff, while the staff’s vulnerability lies in their caregiving role. Both share the ambition of becoming someone they want to be, although they have not yet achieved this. Thus, vulnerability is the mutual core of the therapeutic relationship’s success [24]. Furthermore, they expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of integrated intensive addiction outpatient care. Many also felt that the knowledge they acquired contributed to an improved self-image and the ability to develop new coping strategies through treatment. Psychiatric issues coexisting with substance use disorders make recovery more challenging, involving complex needs and situations [22]. Therefore, healthcare services need to adapt to meet these needs. Often, only the primary diagnosis is prioritised, while other coexisting conditions/illnesses tend to be overlooked. Körkel [20] argued that staff attitudes towards an individual and their goals play a crucial role in motivating change. This aligns with person-centred care, which emphasises the importance of the individual’s own desires as a motivating factor [25].