Table 6 Themes extracted from the Focus Group

Treatment customization

Consider the biopsychosocial aspects related to each patient to propose contextualized actions

Importance of health services for treatment

The existence of health services in the public care network as a support for symptom reduction or search for abstinence

Importance of Occupational Therapy

Occupational activities as a therapeutic tool enabling patient development of useful skills in contexts beyond the health service

Reception offered by service professionals

Respect offered by professionals every day assisting in the process of adherence to the unique therapeutic plan

Clear rules for service routine

Establishment of treatment service routines

Knowledge about addiction as a professional aspect

Technical professional knowledge about substance use disorders as an essential skill

Attentive listening

Professional participation in the treatment process proving to be involved in the work process

Healthcare as a safe space

Healthcare service as a safe place where risk factors for substance use are minimal

Build rapport with professionals

Collaborative relationship between health professional and patient

Emotional support as a necessary aspect of treatment

Professional competency for approaching patient emotional distress