Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Drug and alcohol abuse are a common presenting problem in therapy, second only to depression. Here, the author demonstrates his approach to treating clients with problems involving substance abuse.

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In ""Drug and Alcohol Abuse"", Dr. William Richard Miller demonstrates his approach to treating clients with problems involving substance abuse. Drug and alcohol abuse are a common presenting problem in therapy, second only to depression, so it benefits therapists to have an approach ready for this issue. Dr. Miller uses motivational interviewing, a Rogerian technique designed to increase a client's sense that he or she is capable of handling the problems they confront. In this session, Dr. Miller works with a woman who has been in and out of recovery for use of various substances who is aiming toward reducing her substance use. By reflectively listening and pointing out her strengths, Dr. Miller guides the client toward recognizing other interests in her life with which she can replace drug and alcohol use.