Participation is recommended for three months, but may continue for six months. If the client is unable to sustain sobriety or relapse to drug use, they move back to an earlier, more basic phase of treatment. Isolated drug use episodes are discussed and analyzed in the context of strengthening the recovery program to regain the conceptual balance between craving and program. The Relapse Prevention Workshop is a structured interactive, facilitated group to deliver the basic information necessary for craving managment. The goal of the individual sessions is to develop a strong therapeutic alliance in which the clinician maintains a non-judgmental, warm, and positive manner.
Medical detoxification is defined as the use of medications to treat drug withdrawal symptoms.
Medications are used to relieve distress and promote recovery by alleviating symptoms of early abstinence that interfere with function and increase craving. If the client has symptoms that interfere with daily function for more than three consecutive days, the use of medications is considered. Before medications are introduced the client is encouraged to use nonpharmacologic measures to address the symptom. Exceptions, which are treated immediately, are symptoms of paranoia that interfere with daily function, and physiological symptoms with adverse medical consequences. Treatment for physical withdrawal from substances is based on nationally recognized, published protocols.