Every counselor in every setting will encounter clients with substance abuse issues; yet, many counselors do not have the comprehensive knowledge of or training in addictions counseling or family therapy needed to address these issues. This book fills the training gap by providing a basic understanding of addiction and the role of the family, in addition to offering concrete strategies for assessment and treatment. Viewing addiction as a family disease, Dr. Kelly explores the complex challenges faced by family members of clients battling substance abuse, discusses the myriad ways addiction affects family dynamics, and offers insight into the behaviors that help sustain recovery and create and maintain healthy relationships. Because addiction affects clients across all demographics, the universality of substance abuse is examined along with specific ethnic and cultural differences. The history of family therapy as a component of substance abuse treatment is provided, as are the primary models of addiction and family theory. A full chapter on the developmental concerns and coping behaviors of children growing up with parents with substance abuse issues illustrates the significant impact of addiction. Chapters on codependency and the emotional, behavioral, and relational consequences of living with a family member who is addicted are also included. Family support group treatment options complete the text.
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