Treatment outcomes for methamphetamine users receiving outpatient counselling from the Stimulant Treatment Program in Australia

Introduction and Aims. The purpose of this study was to document treatment outcomes for methamphetamine users receiving outpatient counselling from the Stimulant Treatment Program (STP) in Australia. Design and Methods. Clients attending the STP for methamphetamine use (n = 105) were assessed on entry to the service and at 3 (n = 86) and 6 months (n = 83) after starting treatment. At each interview methamphetamine use (days of use, severity of dependence), other drug use and health and social functioning (HIV risk behaviour, crime, disability, psychotic symptoms and hostility) were assessed for the past month. Results. Participants received a median of six counselling sessions (interquartile range 1–11) over a period of 89 days (interquartile range 41–148 days). Past month methamphetamine use fell from 79% at treatment entry to 53% at the 3‐month follow‐up (P