Abstract

Clubs of alcoholics in treatment (CATs) are important stakeholders in the alcoholism treatment in Croatia. The aim of this paper was to present organisation characteristics, professional work characteristics and assessed needs from the position of presidency members and professional workers. The survey was conducted with representatives of 84 CATs and 80 professionals. Separate research instruments were developed for presidency members and therapists. Questionnaires were collected by post and face-to-face. Results indicate that, on average, CATs work for 20 years, have 23 members, with women making up 11% and family members making up 28% of members. There are fewer members in CATs in Zagreb. CATs are divided concerning the use of disulfiram. Over 80% of CATs are involved in out-group activities. Representatives estimate the need for organizational and financial support, especially those outside Zagreb. Regarding professionals’ perspective, most of them are additionally educated (74%), but still assess the need for further professional development, especially younger experts. Professional work is characterised by diverse techniques, a wide range of supporting approaches and diverse topics processed at CAT’s meetings. Experts assess relationships towards members with high rates, show high estimates of their competence, assess that work in the CATs contributes to their personal development and have a lower assessment of professional stress. In conclusion, recommendations are proposed based on research findings.