Working with Substance Misusers: A Guide to Theory and Practice

Working with Substance Misusers is a practical handbook for students and those who work with people who misuse drugs or alcohol. Written by experienced teachers and clinicians, the book introduces:
* the substances themselves
* theories relevant to substance use and misuse
* the skills necessary to work with this client group
* the broad range of approaches to treatment
* particular problems of specific groups.

The reader is encouraged to read and reflect on the material in relation to their own practice. To help this process, each topic has an identified set of learning objectives. Activities designed to reinforce learning include discussion points, case studies, role plays and group exercises.

Working with Substance Misusers makes clear the connection of theory to practice and encourages a skills-based, but reflective, approach to work in this complex field. Cutting across professional boundaries, it provides both new and more experienced practitioners with a key text.

Trudi Petersen has worked in acute psychiatric services, substance misuse and health promotion. She currently works as a hepatitis research nurse specialist at Bristol Specialist Drug Service and lectures at the University of Glamorgan in South Wales.
Andrew McBride is a consultant psychiatrist in Oxford. He previously ran services in Cardiff and Mid Glamorgan.