Trailblazing Research by Dr. Ken Bachrach of Tarzana Treatment Centers
Dr. Ken Bachrach, Clinical Director of Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC), co-authors a new trailblazing research study. Combining text messaging with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), the study targets people living with HIV and opioid and/or cocaine use disorders. Hence, one of the main goals of this study is to increase anti-viral therapy adherence in these patients. At the same time, by combining text messaging with CBT methodologies (TXT-CBT), a second goal is to reduce the use of opioids and cocaine.
As a licensed psychologist with over thirty years of treatment experience, Dr. Ken Bachrach leads the mental health team at TTC. Offering both inpatient and outpatient services, Dr. Bachrach regularly trains addiction and mental health professionals. At the same time, TTC is proud to see a team leader working on research at the forefront of his field. By applying clinical innovation to cutting-edge technologies, we reach new horizons of treatment possibilities.
Dr. Ken Bachrach and TXT-CBT Treatment Innovations
When asked about the new research, Dr. Bachrach mentioned how it was the first study of its kind to deliver CBT to individuals with opioid and stimulant use disorders and HIV using text messaging. Moreover, what is exciting about the study is the apparent success of the methodology. Patients who received TXT-CBT show dual improvements.
First, there is a definite reduction in cocaine and/or opioid use. Second, there is a greater adherence to antiretroviral therapy along with this reduction. Overall, the study shows an increase in self-efficacy for the people in the study.
TXT-CBT Research Published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence
Already available online, the study will be published in theDrug and Alcohol Dependence journal (Volume 231, 1 February 2022, 109229). The lengthy title of the study is as follows:
“Promising outcomes from a cognitive behavioral therapy text-messaging intervention targeting drug use, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and HIV risk behaviors among adults living with HIV and substance use disorders“
Dr. Ken Bachrach is one of ten co-authors of the study. Indeed, these authors represent leaders in the fields of substance use disorders, HIV treatment, and co-occurring disorders. The paper’s conclusion is a potentially scalable intervention for treatment professionals worldwide. By finding a workable approach that helps people living with HIV and opioid and/or cocaine use disorders, there is no doubt that lives will be saved.
Are You Living with HIV and Opioid and/or Cocaine Use Disorders?
If you struggle with HIV and opioid and/or cocaine use disorders, help is available. Led by Dr. Ken Bachrach, the treatment team at Tarzana Treatment Centers knows what to do.
Please do not allow a difficult situation to get worse. Instead, contact us today at Tarzana Treatment Centers and access the cutting-edge help you need.