Essentials of Chemical Dependency Counseling » (3rd Edition)

Lawson, Gary W., PhD (United States International Univ); Lawson, Ann W., PhD (United States International Univ); Rivers, P. Clayton, PhD (Univ of Nebraska-Lincoln)

This is a reprint of a 2001 textbook about which Book News wrote: For an introductory course within a program of psychology, family therapy, or social work. The Lawson's (both psychology and family therapy) join P. Clayton Rivers (psychology, U. of Nebraska- Lincoln) to explain new ways of thinking about and addressing problems related to treating and preventing chemical dependence. In addition to other changes from the 1998 second edition, they have added new chapters, on counseling the reluctant to recover and harm reduction. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Emily S. Bennett

This is an updated book on the theory and practice of chemical dependency counseling in the face of a changing political climate and healthcare reform. The book's purpose is to provide an understandable, practical text on the clinical, legal and ethical issues unique to the field of chemical dependency counseling. An extensive overview of different addiction treatment modalities within the theoretical context of mental health, disease, and 12-step models of addiction are used to aid the professional in making effective and efficient treatment decisions based on the individual's unique needs. An important topic, the book well meets its overall objective. Intended for students or other mental health professionals who want to work with the chemically dependent, the book will be a useful aid in the development and implementation of effective therapeutic strategies for the diverse needs of the addicted individual. The authors are very solid and credible in this area. The book includes sample assessment guidelines and clinical examples that greatly contribute to the summarization and clarification of principles and therapeutic strategies. The references are extensive and up-to-date. The stated objectives at the beginning of each chapter and discussion questions following are especially useful in guiding one's reading. This is a very useful, updated text for the student or mental health professional interested in working with the chemically dependent client. The authors provide an extensive overview of the theoretical, legal, and ethical issues unique to the field of chemical dependency counseling. Special attention is given to how healthcare reform has effected treatment issues. Thebook represents a valuable addition to the understanding of the unique clinical needs of the chemically dependent and provides a useful framework within which to make effective treatment decisions.