ABSTRACT
This article examines the effectiveness of strengths-based case management in assisting persons with substance abuse problems improve employment-related functioning. In a study of 632 veterans seeking treatment for substance abuse problems, Wright State University's Enhanced Treatment Project found that veterans in substance abuse treatment had improved in several areas of employment functioning, including number of days employed. Among clients who expressed interest in receiving assistance with employment-related issues, those who received strengths-based case management demonstrated additional improvement in employment functioning including more days employed, fewer employment problems and being less troubled about their employment situation. Correlations between improved employment functioning and improved functioning in other life areas further support the value of case management. The implications of these findings for the inclusion of case management services in substance abuse treatment programs will be discussed.
Subject(s)
Case Management , Employment , Substance-Related Disorders/rehabilitation , Adult , Counseling/methods , Female , Humans , Male , Social Adjustment , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
The medical model or disease concept approach to substance abuse treatment is practiced in most residential substance abuse treatment programs. Despite wide acceptance, many of the factors inherent in this approach may actually increase patient noncompliance with treatment regimens. These factors are related to the pathology-based nature of substance abuse treatment, an overemphasis on patient denial, and the paternalistic role that treatment staff often take in the treatment of substance abusers. The Strengths Perspective of Case Management/Advocacy has demonstrated usefulness as an adjunct to treatment that remedies these detrimental factors and improves compliance with, and retention in, treatment. The specific activities that lead to this improvement are discussed.
Subject(s)
Residential Treatment , Substance-Related Disorders/rehabilitation , Adult , Denial, Psychological , Humans , Male , Patient Compliance , Recurrence , Substance-Related Disorders/psychologyABSTRACT
A strengths-based approach to case management is being used as an intervention to assist persons with substance abuse problems to access needed resources. The same strengths-based practice activities that support resource acquisition are also effective in addressing the denial that can interfere with substance abuse treatment. Both benefits, resource acquisition and a constructive approach to denial, have shown promise for enhancing client participation in treatment and subsequent outcome from that treatment.
