Incarcerated individuals with substance use disorders face a high risk of relapse in the absence of structured, motivational, and context-adapted intervent

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of a motivational interviewing (MI) training program for prison pro-fessionals by analyzing the progression of MI-compatible competence and adherence, as well as the reduction of non-compatible practices. Material and method: A longitudinal quasi-experimental study with repeated measures was conducted over four months at three time points. A total of 25 correctional professionals participated in a three-phase training program. A Spanish-translated version of the Motivational Interviewing As-sessment: Supervisory Tools for Enhancing Proficiency (MIA:STEP) questionnaire from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) was used for self-assessment. Statistical analyses included repeated measures ANOVA, Friedman’s test, effect size (η²), and observed power. Results: Non-compatible adherence to MI significantly decreased (P <0.001, η² = 0.360; χ² = 20.796, P <0.001), representing the most notable finding. Compatible competence in MI showed a non-significant increase in ANOVA (P = 0.138), but a significant improvement in Friedman’s test (χ² = 9.621, P = 0.008). Compatible adherence initially increased (P <0.001, η² = 0.267) but subsequently declined (χ² = 9.939, P = 0.007). Non-compatible competence significantly increased between the initial and final assessments (P = 0.012, η² = 0.169; χ² = 9.711, P = 0.008). Discussion: The program was effective in significantly reducing non-compatible adherence to MI, which emerged as the most substantial outcome. While compatible adherence fluctuated and com-patible competence exhibited a differentiated progression depending on the statistical test used, the findings indicate progressive learning and areas requiring further reinforcement. The ecological validity of the study design strengthens the applicability of the results, providing evidence of the impact of MI training in correctional settings. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Salamanca (CEISH)

To present a therapeutic tool that combines group and individual therapy, and evaluate its effects on the reduction of substance use, the improvement of negative psychological symptoms, and decrease in conflict among inmates with dual diagnosis. This is a pre-experimental mixed-methods study, conducted in the Mental Health Module of Topas Prison (Salamanca) between 2017 and 2023, involving a total of 54 male inmates, with a maximum of 8 subjects a year. The intervention included 20 group sessions and 5 individual sessions per period. Data were collected through initial evaluation records, individual and group session information, and a final questionnaire. Data from all clinical sessions supporting the results were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative analysis software. The results showed a significant correlation (r = 0.656, P <0.001) between mental health problems and substance use. The most frequent codes in the sessions were “motivational interviewing,” “social isolation,” and “relapse prevention”. Qualitative and quantitative analyses indicated significant improvements in substance use reduction, relief of negative psychological symptoms, and a decrease in conflict within the module. The intervention proved to be effective, highlighting the importance of adapting and integrating treatments for inmates with dual diagnosis. Consistency in the methodology and the customization of topics according to the needs of the inmates were key factors for the success of the treatment. It is suggested that prison staff receive specific training to work with dual diagnosis, and as a future line of research, to evaluate the effect of combining this psychotherapy model with pharmacological treatment. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Salamanca (CEISH).