Treating alcohol and drug problems in psychotherapy practice doing what works

Synopsis

Written specifically for the office-based psychotherapist, this practical guide describes how to detect, assess, diagnose, and treat clients presenting with a range of alcohol and drug problems. Detailed is an integrated, flexible psychotherapeutic approach that emphasizes building a strong therapeutic relationship, engaging clients "where they are," and addressing substance use within the larger context of clients' lives. The authors describe in very pragmatic terms how to use a combination of motivational, cognitive-behavioral, 12-step, and psychodynamic techniques with clients at different stages of change. Techniques are brought to life with numerous case vignettes, and appendices include reproducible client forms and handouts.