Working with substance misusers vs Integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders

Working with substance misusers

Trudi Petersen, Andrew McBride

2002

Working with Substance Misusers is a practical handbook for students and those who work with people who misuse drugs or alcohol. Written by experienced teachers and clinicians, the book introduces: * the substances themselves * theories relevant to substance use and misuse * the skills necessary to work with this client group * the broad range of approaches to treatment * particular problems of specific groups. The reader is encouraged to read and reflect on the material in relation to their own practice. To help this process, each topic has an identified set of learning objectives. Activities designed to reinforce learning include discussion points, case studies, role plays and group exercises. Working with Substance Misusers makes clear the connection of theory to practice and encourages a skills-based, but reflective, approach to work in this complex field. Cutting across professional boundaries, it provides both new and more experienced practitioners with a key text.

Integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders

Sharon C. Ekleberry

2008

Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders addresses a complex client population, which presents service providers with significant professional challenges. Underlying personality disorders compromise treatment effectiveness for medical, other psychiatric, or trauma services, as well as the ability these individuals have in adhering to probation, parole, or court-ordered treatment requirements. A co-occuring substance use disorder amplifies the difficulties experienced by personality-disordered individuals, exacerbates the precarious nature of their relationships, and raises the skill level needed by service providers attempting to help them. There can be significant professional satisfaction in working effectively with the interplay of addiction and disorders of personality. The book brings focus to the specifics of assessment and treatment for this type of co-occurring disorder and suggests that greater adaptability, fewer self-sabotaging behaviors, and an abstinent lifestyle are all possible. Recovery from both disorders is the journey these individuals take toward greater maturation, reliable impulse control, and coping skills that are not dependent upon the evasion of the demands of living or use of substances to manage stress or uncomfortable affect. Recovery is possible, and service providers can assist these clients on their path to wellness.