Psychological research and individual psychologists play an essential role in both understanding and addressing the biopsychosocial underpinnings of substance use and addiction disorders, as well as the long-term implications as a chronic disease.
Increase access to non-pharmacologic treatment for chronic pain conditions.
Support integrated pain management interventions in primary and specialty care settings through increased dissemination about evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Provide a comprehensive continuum of care for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs).
Medication-Assisted Treatment should be patient-centered and inclusive of psychotherapy and counseling in conjunction with the use of medications.
Expand federal support for research.
Increase funding for research on effective psychosocial interventions for chronic pain and SUDs, as well as risk factors and overdose prevention.
Invest in the psychology workforce.
Strengthen support for culturally-competent, interprofessional education and training for psychologists in integrated primary and specialty settings.
Increase systemic support for health care delivery systems.
Support parity enforcement, payment reform, funding for drug courts and evidence-based harm reduction programs shown to mitigate the risks associated with substance use.
Strengthen federal support for long-term recovery.
Invest in evidence-based recovery support services, including peer-support, recovery housing and programs that facilitate the re-entry to previously incarcerated individuals into the community.