Life skills are vital to the change process for substance-abusing clients

Life skills are vital to the change process for substance-abusing clients

Between 2002 and 2007, there were over 8.3 million children under the age of 18
that lived with at least one parent who was dependent on or abused alcohol or an
illicit drug in a given year (SAMSHA, 2009). It is estimated that as many as 8% of
these children resided in single-parent households in which their mother was
dependent on or abused substances. Children in the care of substance abusing
mothers are at serious risk for maltreatment, neglect, and abuse, as well as
economic, academic, and socio-emotional problems (Conners, et al., 2004; Jones,
2007). Additionally, drug-abusing parents can be up to three times more likely to
engage with child protective services (CPS), and most parents will do what is
necessary to regain custody of their children.
Assessment is the act of determining the nature and causes of a client’s problem.
During the early sessions of treatment, counselors gather data and increase their
understanding of their clients. To understand our clients’ substance abuse
problems, we must try to understand our clients. This involves interviewing them,
taking a history, and administering psychological tests, It is vital that clinicians avoid
preconceived notions about the client and that they make treatment
determinations based only on data collected during the initial evaluation
For this final exam, watch the application videos below and respond to the

For this final exam, watch the application videos below and respond to the
following:
Part I – Video: Case of Torey who’s Mother is Addicted to Opioids.
1) According to the video, Torey has basically raised herself with the help of a uncle
who recently passed away. Torey’s mother has presented in for treatment due to a
court order in an effort to regain full custody of her daughter. Torey is devastated
over the loss of her uncle and has been granted weekend visits with her mom.
Refer to Chapter 5 and prepare an outline of at least three of the skills and,
strategies that facilitate client change. This process must be develop in order to
create a safe space that encourages the mother to move towards open dialogue
about her addiction. Customize your strategies by using techniques such as lead-in,
questions, restatement, reflection, etc.
2) Life skills are vital to the change process for substance-abusing clients. First,
clients need coping skills to deal with situations that would otherwise be associated
with drug use. Discuss how your would incorporate the seven life skills to support
the mother’s change process.