Network Therapy for Alcohol and Drug Abuse : A New Approach in Practice

Most mental health professionals are ill-prepared to help the alcoholic or drug abuser to recover, even though people with addictions regularly turn to them for help.

Detoxification regimens, research approaches, and hospital programmes are available, but they do little to affect the day-by-day struggle.

For many alcoholics, years of treatment have meant that they achieved "insight", but their drinking continued. This book outlines an innovative approach to addiction treatment that engages a support network of family members and friends.

They meet with the patient and therapist at regular intervals to help overcome denial, achieve abstinence and prevent relapse.

The book offers many case studies, and a full description of the psychological and pharmacological mechanisms underlying this modality.

Marc Galanter demonstrates that addicted people can be treated effectively with this combination of individual therapy, self-help and peer support.

He is the author of "Cults".