Introduction to Chemical Dependency Counseling (Library of Substance Abuse Treatment)
As the practice of substance abuse counseling becomes increasingly professionalized with a scientifically grounded base, there is a need for a textbook of high quality. This current text provides a sophisticated presentation of the science and practice of treatment, complemented by the wisdom of clinical experience. Those who study it will be well prepared to embark on their work in clinical care, and those in practice can keep it on hand as a valued reference. (Marc Galanter, M.D., New York University)Drs. Levin, Culkin, and Perrotto are to be commended for writing a clear, straightforward introduction to the very complex, multidisciplinary field of chemical dependency counseling. This book is broad and comprehensive in scope, combing the findings of current scientific research with an evolutionary view of significant theories relating to addiction. The design of the book is 'learner-centered,' making it an excellent choice for college-level introductory courses on the topic. Student learning is targeted in each chapter by an initial statement of learning objectives, while chapters conclude with a summary of the central ideas covered. The text makes frequent and effective use of citations, and the extensive bibliography of current and historically significant work in the field will stimulate student research. This introductory text is so comprehensive that it will become a valued resource to be used again and again by students as they move through the various courses comprising their curriculum. (Dan Gilhooley)This book is an extremely comprehensive textbook on abstinence-oriented chemical dependency treatment that will serve as a wonderful introduction to the field for students and as a reference for the more experienced mental health clinician. The authors present material on all the important topics in the field of chemical dependency counseling, and discuss cutting edge work on the motivational stages of change, motivational enhancement therapy for clients not prepared to attempt abstinence, and the importance of matching the intervention to the client's motivational state. Not only is this book impressive in its ability to convey the information that clinicians need for working in this challenging area, it is equally able to transmit the authors' excitement and love for the work and their appreciation of its complexity and intellectual and emotional challenges. (Andrew Tartarsky, Ph.D., clinical psychologist in private practice)