This manual presents the first empirically studied, integrative
treatment approach developed specifically for co-occurring PTSD and
substance abuse. For persons with this prevalent and difficult-to-treat
dual diagnosis, the most urgent clinical need is to establish safety--to
work toward discontinuing substance use, letting go of dangerous
relationships, and gaining control over such extreme symptoms as
dissociation and self-harm. The manual is divided into 25 specific units
or topics, addressing a range of different cognitive, behavioral, and
interpersonal domains. Each topic provides highly practical tools and
techniques to engage patients in treatment; teach "safe coping skills"
that apply to both disorders; and restore ideals that have been lost,
including respect, care, protection, and healing. Structured yet
flexible, topics can be conducted in any order and in a range of
different formats and settings. The volume is designed for maximum ease
of use with a large-size format and helpful reproducible therapist
sheets and handouts, which purchasers can also download and print at the
companion webpage.
See also the author's self-help guide Finding Your Best Self, Revised
Edition: Recovery from Addiction, Trauma, or Both, an ideal client
recommendation.