Evidence-based Clearinghouse Resource Details
Drinker's Check-Up (DCU)
Drinker's Check-Up (DCU) is a computer-based brief intervention designed to help problem drinkers reduce their alcohol use and alcohol-related consequences. The program targets individuals along the continuum of problem drinking from hazardous use (e.g., binge-drinking college students) to alcohol dependence (e.g., individuals presenting for specialized alcohol treatment). DCU is based on the principles of brief motivational interviewing and is sensitive to an individual's readiness for change. DCU's core elements are characterized by the acronym FRAMES: Feedback is personalized, Responsibility for changing is left with the individual, Advice to change is given, a Menu of options for changing is offered, information is provided in an Empathetic style, and Self-efficacy is emphasized. The program consists of integrated assessment, feedback, and decisionmaking modules. DCU can be used as a stand-alone intervention or as a precursor to more intensive alcohol treatment.
Contact Information
Behavioral Tech, LLC
4556 University Way NE
Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98105
Phone: (206) 675-8588
E-mail: information@behavioraltech.org
Reference Material
Bohus, M., Haaf, B., Simms, T., Limberger, M.F., Schmahl, C. Unckel, C., et al. (2004). Effectiveness of inpatient dialectical behavior therapy for borderline personality disorder: A controlled trial. Behavior Research and Therapy, 452, 487-499.
Hester, R.K., Squires, D.D., & Delaney, H., D. (2005). The Drinker's Check-up: 12-month outcomes of a controlled clinical trial of a stand-alone sofware program for problem drinkers. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 28(2), 159-169.
Updated: January 14, 2010