Integrated cognitive-behavioral intervention reduced alcohol use and perpetration of intimate partner violence in a man with alcohol dependence syndrome: A case study

Heavy alcohol use poses an increased risk for intimate partner violence. We present here a novel therapeutic treatment, integrated cognitive-behavioral intervention (ICBI), a treatment approach for men with alcohol dependence who also perpetrate intimate partner violence (IPV). ICBI includes a meaningful integration of cognitive-behavioral and interpersonal therapy techniques. In this case study of an adult married male with alcohol dependence, who also self-reported perpetration of IPV, we found that ICBI was an effective treatment approach not only in reducing alcohol consumption and perpetration of IPV but also in improving symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in his wife. Important limitations, however, were the short duration of follow-up and concurrent pharmacological treatment. Salient aspects of psychotherapy process and outcome, indications for, and utility of integrated approaches to treatment are discussed.