This edition has been revised to include significant updating to the content and references, changes to the text material to keep it current and useful, updates to the changes in substance abuse counseling practices and the setting in which they are performed, new cases in each chapter, and additional MyCounselingLab videos and questions. So that students can understand the ethical and legal issues before they begin any counseling with clients, these topics are now presented in Chapter 2. Readers see the legal and ethical ramifications often associated with substance abuse with the new section on client criminal activity in Chapter 2. Readers learn the importance and potential use of the latest neuroscience research in this edition's findings from 2010 to the present. (Ch.3) To make it easier for readers to explore risk factors , a new table on Genetic Risks and Protective Factors for ATOD Dependency appears in Chapter 4. Preparing for the assessment process is emphasized and 70% of the references are updated in Chapter 5, Assessment and DX . Students learn the latest implications of the Minnesota Model of Treatment and treatment settings in the military in Chapter 6's thorough updating of references.

Readers are brought up to date on the latest information on current treatment plans and agencies in the text's lengthened sections on Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, Vocational Readiness, and the use of medications in treatment and recovery. (Ch. 7) The use of various medications , including Suboxone, Methadone, bupreneorphine and disulfiriam in treatment is detailed in Chapter 7. The implications of Vocational Readiness and its impact on treatment and recovery are discussed in Chapter 8. To keep pace with the information on research based programs being used more frequently in treatment, the authors have included new information on evidence-based family therapy programs in Chapter 9. Essential areas in recovery are reviewed for readers, including expanded information on research on the effectiveness of AA and other self-help groups, the growing prevalence of co-existing mental health and substance abuse disorder, and an emphasis on spirituality in treatment and recovery. (Ch. 10) Readers learn the latest regarding the changing demographics in the US in regard to minority issues in counseling through an expanded section in Chapter 12 on the demographics of minority populations and an examination of health disparities related to substance abuse among minorities.

In an effort to improve readers' understanding of the evaluation of prevention programs , Chapter 13 focuses on this area and includes new research and conclusions. There's also an expanded emphasis on professional development and training .