Clinical Trial of CBASP for Individuals With Co-occurring Chronic Depression and Alcohol Dependence

This study examines the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of
Psychotherapy (CBASP) in reducing both alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms in adults
who are chronically depressed and alcohol dependent. Participants will receive a 20-session
course of CBASP psychotherapy over a period of 21 weeks and will be assessed for severity of
pretreatment psychological abuse and trauma as well as pre and posttreatment interpersonal
functioning. Two primary hypotheses are to be tested: 1) demonstrate that CBASP is effective
in reducing depressive symptoms (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression-24 ratings) and
alcohol consumption (drinks per drinking day) in this chronically depressed alcohol
dependent cohort when posttreatment ratings are compared to pretreatment levels; and 2)
demonstrate that acquisition of feeling safe with the therapist and acquisition of the
ability to perceive the interpersonal consequences of one's behavior will significantly
increase from pre to posttreatment levels and will be associated with reductions in drinking
and depressive symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Clinical diagnosis of a current major depressive disorder (e.g., Major Depression,
Dysthymic Disorder) for a minimum of two years

- Clinical diagnosis of alcohol dependence during the last thirty days

- Interest in changing one's drinking and alleviating depressive symptoms

Exclusion Criteria:

- Please call study site for additional information