"Treatment for alcohol and drug problems has become a major part of mental health services in recent years. Yet despite the proliferation of empirically grounded treatment approaches, individuals with substance use disorders face tremendous challenges in altering longstanding patterns of thought and behavior. This book synthesizes the latest theory and research on the process of addictive behavior change, helping the clinician more effectively conceptualize and address the needs of particular clients.

It offers concrete guidance for tailoring interventions to clients with varying levels of motivation or readiness to change, describing what works - and what doesn't work - at different points in the recovery process.".

"Charting the typical course of recovery from addiction, the book reviews each of the five stages of change: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. It illustrates the specific clinical issues and tasks that arise for the client and therapist at each stage, from recognizing that a problem exists to developing and maintaining effective behavior change skills.

Incorporating a range of theoretical and clinical perspectives, the book identifies interventions and techniques that are most effective for meeting the challenges of each stage.".

"From leading authorities in the field, this book offers indispensable guidance on applying the stage of change model to clinical practice. It is a resource for psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, family therapists, and addictions counselors, and will serve as an advanced undergraduate or graduate-level text."--BOOK JACKET.