Date of Submission
2023
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Department
Psychology
Department Chair
Stephanie H. Felgoise, PhD, ABPP
First Advisor
Michelle R. Lent, PhD
Second Advisor
Patrick McElwaine, PsyD
Third Advisor
Barbara A. Golden, PsyD, ABPP
Abstract
Despite the widespread attention and resources allocated to the current opioid crisis, the public health problem persists. A major target in the efforts to combat the opioid crisis is increased accessibility and utilization of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). A robust body of evidence supports the effectiveness of medications to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) in reducing overdose deaths and improving overall outcomes. Yet, MOUD continues to be underutilized at alarming rates. Studies have discovered that only one-third of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment sites offer any form of MOUD and approximately 30% of individuals with OUD receive any form of MOUD. A potential barrier to MOUD utilization that has not been thoroughly examined is how OUD treatment providers perceive medications for OUD. Clinicians and researchers, including counselors and psychologists, are not able to prescribe medications but may have an influence on the individual seeking treatment for OUD. Clinicians have significant influence on clients’ determination of treatment options and, knowingly or unknowingly, can promote or discourage MOUD. The present study examines survey data collected from mental health professionals that either conduct research with or provide direct clinical care to individuals with OUD. The present study aims to analyze perceptions of MOUD between groups of clinicians and researchers working with OUD, years of experience in the OUD field, and varying occupational settings. Results from the study will help to fill gaps in the literature about healthcare professionals’ perceptions towards MOUD and the degree to which they may serve as a barrier to its acceptance and implementation.
Recommended Citation
Mullen, Patrick M., "Mental Health Professionals’ Perception of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder" (2023). PCOM Psychology Dissertations. 598.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/psychology_dissertations/598