This paper presents the findings from a systematic review of the literature on the factors that contribute to the treatment efficacy of substance use disorders. The introduction includes a clarifications of the terms factors, mediators and predictors, which are the most commonly used ones in research studies, as well as a description of the challenges faced in the context of this review. With regard to methodology, factors affecting addiction treatment have been looked for in the PsycInfo and MedInfo databases. The results suggested a variety of studies, which have been classified according to their focus on studies that put an emphasis on: a) treatment (psychological, personal) factors, b) factors related to the treatment process, c) various treatment methods, d) other factors, e.g. social factors and e) factors related to the system level (e.g. health care system). The results are discussed based on the combination of these factors with each other and clinical experience.

Katerina Flora is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at University of Western Macedonia. She has studied Psychology and has postgraduate and PhD studies in Clinical and Social Psychology specializing in addictions and psychosocial problems, She has published scientific papers in international journals and she has conference presentations in the field of psychosocial problems and psychotherapy. Her research interests include the prevention and treatment of psychosocial problems, positive psychology, narrative approach and the study of the social factors of mental illness.