Family Therapy and the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders: The Family Matters Model

This accessible guide offers a much-needed integration of family therapy into the treatment of substance use disorders. By proposing a means by which family therapy can be moved to the forefront of addiction treatment, it places the family perspective at the center of its approach and provides a multifaceted alternative to the prevalent individual-focused model.

Drawing from Bowen Family Systems Theory and the principles of the 12 step program, the book presents a model of integration that addresses the needs of families struggling with addiction. Illustrated with discussion questions and case narratives of former addicts, the text guides both practitioners and families towards a goal of creating an environment that supports recovery. Offering an overview of the history and current models of addiction treatment, chapters also outline a 6 week Family Matters Program, with accompanying treatment interventions and case studies. The book concludes with an examination of how this program can be implemented by practitioners in a variety of clinical settings.

Family Therapy and the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders is essential reading for anyone with an interest in understanding the diverse ways in which addiction affects families. It will be particularly relevant to students of family therapy, but clinicians who work across the fields of substance abuse treatment or family counseling will also benefit from reading this book.

Melody Bacon, PhD, is a professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in the Marriage and Family Therapy department and a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Dr. Bacon is a clinical psychologist specializing in relational issues and has been in practice for over 20 years.