File is not found

Official course of the MATRIX model for intensive psychosocial treatment of addictions

Dominican Republic, 30 August 2019. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for Central America and the Caribbean (UNODC ROPAN), the National Drug Council and the National Health Service carried out the official MATRIX model course on intensive psychosocial treatment of addictions, which was delivered by international expert Dr. Maria Zarza.

This model was born in the United States and was brought and adapted to Spain in Murcia. With this training, the model arrives for the first time in the Dominican Republic, creating a new generation of MATRIX therapists.

The model is based on evidence and cognitive behavioral therapy and, due to its intensive dimension of four months, requires an extensive and precise organization.

The expert's supervision was essential to clarify doubts about the application in the country.

In addition to the basic model, the training focused on the modules dedicated to women and adolescents, two vulnerable groups with specific needs. Details on early recovery skills sessions and relapse prevention sessions were explained.

The training, aimed at health professionals and public institutions, made it possible to certify 34 health professionals from institutions dedicated to assisting drug users, such as the National Council on Drugs, Center for Comprehensive Care for Dependency (CAIDEP), CAIFI of the Office of the First Lady, Centre for Comprehensive Care of Children and Adolescents in the Consumption of Psychoactive Substances (CAINNACSP), Office of the Attorney General of the Republic (PGR), Mental Health of the Ministry of Public Health, Mi Querencia Shelter (RMQ), RESIDE, Open House, Mesón de Dios and a variety of NGOs.

It was taught in a theoretical and practical way, with exercises that allowed participants to practice their new knowledge and share techniques and experiences with their colleagues.

This training allowed participants to obtain the resources, tools and material to implement the official model.