This review synthesizes drug abuse outcome studies that included a family-couples therapy treatment condition. The meta-analytic evidence, across 1,571 cases involving an estimated 3,500 patients and family members, favors family therapy over (a) individual counseling or therapy, (b) peer group therapy, and (c) family psychoeducation. Family therapy is as effective for adults as for adolescents...

The effectiveness of intense specialised multi-family therapy (ISMFT) for 111 multi-stressed families, and the therapeutic alliance as a possible predictor outcome, were examined. A repeated measures design was used, where changes in all ISMFT phases (preparation, follow-up) assessed compared both mothers fathers. Evidence found improved family functioning after period, which maintained at 3 mo...