Social Work Practice in the Addictions

Social workers represent the largest body of addiction and mental health service providers, and there is a consistent need for up-to-date information. Social Work Practice in the Addictions is a comprehensive evidence-based volume. Contributing authors of this volume have been carefully selected to ensure representation of the leading social work addiction researchers. Additionally, researchers from other allied fields, including psychiatry, psychology, and public health, will also be involved to ensure a strong interdisciplinary perspective. Unlike other texts on addiction, this book incorporates ideas of social justice, practice with diverse communities, and ethics to represent the entire knowledge base of social work.

At the beginning of history, people abused intoxicating substances and grappled with the consequences as best they could. In more recent times, the healing professions made recognizing, understanding, and treating addictions major priorities. Today, social workers are the largest group providing assessment, prevention, and treatment services for persons with addictions, necessitating rigorous, up-to-date information sources concerning the vulnerable and often stigmatized clients they encounter in daily practice.

Reflecting a strong basis in social justice and ethics, Social Work Practice in the Addictions assembles the current evidence base in one readable, comprehensive volume. It begins by tracing the history of approaches to addiction and its treatment, from early morality-based concepts to today’s multilayered models. From there, contributors present the latest findings on epidemiology and etiology, assessment and treatment options, working meaningfully with diverse populations, and possibilities for future research. Coverage is interdisciplinary, with experts representing psychology, psychiatry, public health, and other related fields as chapters:

• Review frequently used assessment tools.
• Decode the language of diagnosis.
• Detail effective treatment strategies, including motivational interventions, recovery/12-step facilitation, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
• Offer a framework for integrating diversity and social justice into addictions practice.
• Critique current alcohol and drug control policies.
• Model non-judgmental social work practice.

Social Work Practice in the Addictions is a trustworthy guide for social work professionals, educators, and counselors looking to hone critical competencies, keep abreast of the field, and maintain an open mind.