The Essential Addictions Counselor: Effective Treatment and Prevention of Substance Use Disorders and Behavioral Addictions provides students with critical information on substance use disorders as well as behavioral addictions. The book explores the development and nature of addictions, specific substance-related disorders, ethical considerations, and the impact of societal issues such as stigma, racial and cultural dynamics, poverty, and homelessness on addiction and recovery.

The book offers a comprehensive look at the wide range of topics essential to understanding and treating addictions. It covers the clinical aspects of addiction, ethical and cultural issues in treatment, non-substance related and technology-related addictions, group therapy advantages, and prevention programming. The final chapter of the book discusses the professional development and self-care of counselors working in the field. Each of the 13 chapters features reflection exercises, small group lab practices, and additional questions to encourage deeper engagement with the material.

The Essential Addictions Counselor is ideal for upper-level undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in counseling, social work, or psychology programs.