Chemical Dependency Counseling: A Practical Guide

by Robert R. Perkinson

Chemical Dependency Counseling, Second Edition, one of the best-selling treatment manuals for chemical dependency, combines the traditional twelve-step program with cognitive behavioral theory and motivational enhancement. New to the Second Edition is expanded coverage of psychopharmacologic treatment of mental disorders, intervention of family members, and prevention of adolescent substance abuse in conjunction with new information on gambling addiction and patient motivation. Using the American Society of Addiction Medicine chemical dependency treatment model―the model used by the leading chemical addiction centers in the world―the author provides a step-by-step guide complete with informational handouts, patient schedules, and assessment plans for patient-types.

Genres: Psychology, Reference

592 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Robert R. Perkinson is the clinical director of Keystone Treatment Center in Canton, SD. He is a Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. His specialty areas focus on treating alcoholics, addicts, and pathological gamblers.

Reviews

[Alicia Gines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chemical Dependency Counseling: A Practical Guide is exactly what its title promises—a thorough and practical resource for those learning about or working in the field of chemical dependency counseling. As a required textbook, it proved to be an invaluable tool, diving deep into every aspect of chemical dependency—from understanding the complexities of the addiction itself to exploring the critical role a counselor plays in supporting clients through their recovery journey.

What makes this book so valuable is its ability to break down the theoretical aspects of addiction and its real-world applications in a counselor’s practice. The chapters are structured in a way that both students and working professionals can easily grasp the intricacies of chemical dependency. It not only outlines strategies for helping clients but also provides insight into the emotional and psychological components of addiction, making it a comprehensive guide for anyone in the field.

This book has earned a permanent spot on my professional bookshelf. It’s the kind of resource I’ll reach for whenever I need a quick refresher or deeper understanding of a particular aspect of chemical dependency counseling.

I’d give it a solid 5 stars and highly recommend it to anyone looking to deepen their knowledge about chemical dependency or other addictions. It’s an essential read for both budding counselors and seasoned professionals alike.

[Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an assigned text that I gleaned baseline treatment strategy information from but had many open critiques for as well, which were shared and echoed within the context of the class. There were many instances of absolutest language surrounding the description of addicts and their behavior as predictable, unconscious, and borderline animalistic and the same from person to person. Treatment techniques rely on a belief in a higher power in order to submit to a program. Outdated research reference leading to misinformed conclusions. It's not a terrible reference material, but I wouldn't recommend or use in my class as teaching material.

[Eirene]

This book is HORRIBLY written from a straight up writing perspective. It’s also terribly condescending and full of incorrect and potentially harmful information. Stay away!!!!

[D.l. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice reference book

[Martin Screeton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Book... Rehabilitation Soup to Nuts and all of the practical guides that go along with it ... You will be amazed!