There are now numerous evidence-based alternatives to confrontational counseling, and clinical studies show that more effective substance abuse counselors are those who practice with an empathic, supportive style. It is time to accept that the harsh confrontational practices of the past are generally ineffective, potentially harmful, and professionally inappropriate.

Current evidence indicates that alcohol/drug problems generally obey ordinary behavioral principles and processes, and substance abuse frequently occurs within a broader cluster of psychological problems.

All alcohol beverages contain exactly the same kind of alcohol: ethyl alcohol. Ethanol has been known and used as a drug for thousands of years. It is produced naturally by the interaction of yeast and sugar.

"This is a rare book in the addictions field. It assembles the most up-to-date scientific knowledge in the social and biological sciences to advance the field with regard to the etiology, prevention, and treatment of substance use problems. The book provides a new understanding of how scientific principles can be utilized in addressing common human issues associated with addictions. The themes that emerge will be of interest to practitioners in pursuit of transdisciplinary research for purposes of improving interventions and services for alcohol and drug problems."--Allen Zweben, DSW, Columbia University School of Social Work

This is a clinical research guide for therapists in applying Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) with  drug abusers.

The realities of increasing demand and decreasing funding for treatment leave us with two options: continue trying to provide ever-diluted treatment in the traditional model or develop a well-planned system in which different levels and types of intervention are provided to people based on their needs and characteristics.

The community-reinforcement approach (CRA) is an alcoholism treatment approach that aims to achieve abstinence by eliminating positive reinforcement for drinking and enhancing positive reinforcement for sobriety.