All problems, even substance abuse problems, have exceptions; that is, times when the problem could have happened but somehow did not, when the client could have had a drink but did not, could have driven while drunk but gave the keys to a friend, could have gotten high before breakfast but went straight to work instead. Solution-focused therapy is based on this simple idea. Berg and Reuss build solutions step by step by focusing on clients' strengths and their strategies for past successes. Stressing solutions rather than weaknesses or problems, this team discovers and explores the ways substance abusers heal themselves. Written in a direct, straightforward manner, the book thoroughly explains solution-focused therapy one step at a time. Bursting with case examples, tips from the field, frequently asked questions (What about the mandated client who doesn't want to be in therapy? What do you do when you suspect sexual abuse?), and complementary discussions of key issues (such as shame, codependency, denial), this book is a practical manual for all practitioners interested in pursuing an innovative, client-driven approach to treating substance abuse. Advance Acclaim: "The therapy that made Milwaukee famous! From the home of the Brief Family Therapy Center, Berg and Reuss have bottled their best. An excellent, highly readable, and practical volume for those interested in respectful and effective substance abuse treatment in today's managed health care environment." -Michael E. Hoyt, Ph.D. Permanente Medical Group, Inc., Hayward, California Editor, Constructive Therapies About the Authors: Insoo Kim Berg is executive director of the Brief Family Therapy Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Norman H. Reuss, Ph.D., is a substance abuse services treatment coordinator in Burlington, Vermont. Insoo Kim Berg is also the author of Family-Based Services, the co-author of Working with the Problem Drinker and The Miracle Method, and the therapist featured on the videotapes, Irreconcilable Differences: A Solution-Focused Approach to Marital Therapy and I'd Hear Laughter: Finding Solutions for the Family. Contents: PART I: SOLUTION-FOCUSED THERAPY, ONE STEP AT A TIME 1.Start by Getting a Head Start 2.Exceptions to Problems 3.The Client's Workable Solution 4.Homework 5.After the First Session 6.How It All Fits Together: A Case Study PART II: SPECIAL TREATMENT SITUATIONS 7.Clients Who Are "Codependent" 8.Chronic Relapsers 9.Families as Resources 10.DWI Offenders 11.Mandated Clients 12.Group Therapy 13.When Substance Abuse Is a Problem Among Problems 14.Women and Substance Abuse 15.Afterword: Confusion Is Our Best Product |