Objective: Integrate the use of best practices and evidenced-based approaches in treating substance use disorder.

Clients are most likely to make good progress if the counselor can help them address their drug use behaviors in a direct way. The specific techniques addressed in Chapter 5 are designed to interrupt substance abuse behaviors. All clients are unique and have unique problems that must be individually addressed and treated.

• Read Matt’s situation on page 140 of your SAC text and prepare to discuss the following:
  • Given Matt’s situation, how might each of the following behavioral interventions be useful?
    • Identifying high-risk situations and discovering better coping strategies for dealing with them.
    • Relaxation training
    • Contingency contracting
    • Assertiveness training
  • In general, how would you help Matt make changes in his substance use behavior?