COUPLES THERAPY FOR DRUG ABUSING WOMEN IN AN INPATIENT SETTING: A PILOT STUDY* Terry S. Trepper Eric E. McCollum Mary E. Dankoski S. K. Davis Mary Ann LaFazia ABSTRACT: This article describes a pilot study to examine the useful- ness of adding a couples therapy component to inpatient drug and alcohol treatment for women. The treatment model was modified from a 12-week integrative systems model that has been empirically sup- ported in outpatient treatment settings. A team of student-therapists received intensive training and supervision in the modified version. This article discusses the ability of chemical dependency counselors to implement this model, includes pre and post treatment comparisons, and qualitative findings regarding the efficacy of the project. The treat- ment model promises to be usable, safe, and practical in inpatient settings, and merits a more thoroughgoing clinical trial. KEY WORDS: couples therapy; inpatient therapy; substance abuse treatment. Terry S. Trepper, PhD, is Professor of Psychology, Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy, and the Director of the Family Studies Center, Purdue University Calumet, Hammond, IN 46323. Eric E. McCollum, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Human Development, Virginia Tech-Falls Church, 7054 Haycock Road, Falls Church, VA 22043. Mary E. Dankoski, MS, is a PhD Candidate in the Marriage and Family Therapy Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN. S. K. Davis, PhD, is Director of the Perinatal Treatment Program, 1005 E. Jefferson St., Seattle, WA 98122. Mary Ann LaFazia, MSW, is a Supervisor, Family and Prevention Services, Division of Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Department of Social and Health Services, P.O. Box 45330, Olym- pia, WA 98504-5330. A copy of the treatment manual is available from the second author. Reprint requests should be sent to Terry Trepper, PhD, Family Studies Center, Purdue University Calumet, Hammond, IN 46323. *This project was supported in part by the State of Washington Department of Social and Health Services, Division of Alcohol and Substance Abuse. Contemporary Family Therapy 22(2), June 2000  2000 Human Sciences Press, Inc. 201