Working with the Problem Drinker: A Solution-Focused Approach

by Insoo Kim Berg, Scott D. Miller

A detailed program for psychotherapists―the solution-focused, brief-therapy, problem-solving method of working with problem-drinker clients. At a time when the accepted standard treatment for alcoholism is long-term and expensive, solution-focused therapy, as developed at the Brief Family Therapy Center in Milwaukee, offers a brief and cost-effective alternative. Insoo Kim Berg and Scott D. Miller believe that a focus on solutions, rather than pathology, is the most constructive strategy for working with problem drinkers; their foremost concern is with what works. To this end they don't reject traditional treatment programs; rather, they view them as one part of a flexible and multidimensional approach to alcohol abuse treatment.

The authors successfully utilize solution-focused therapy in their work with problem drinkers, but it is their philosophy of working with clients―and within clients' belief systems―to encourage change that is at the heart of their model. The model, grounded in the philosophy of solution-focused brief therapy, introduces a paradigmatic change in the approach to substance abuse treatment. Rather than treating a problem drinker, Berg and Miller work with clients to treat problem drinking. The authors' refreshing blend of respect for their clients and optimism about their ability to stop abusive drinking offers hope to clients who can't fit into traditional long-term programs or who have given up on themselves. This book shows how clients can be helped to construct a future where drinking or substance abuse is no longer a problem.

Solution-focused therapy, based on respect for and collaboration with the client, concentrates on success and solutions. Therapists develop goals with the client, rather than imposing "appropriate" treatment objectives. If one solution doesn't work, the technique―not the client―is blamed and client and therapist go on to "do something different." The authors' model is much more than a list of interventions; it is a multi-faceted approach to treatment, which can adapt to anything that works, whether brief therapy, AA, or more formal inpatient programs.

Genres: Psychology

Paperback

First published June 17, 1992

Reviews

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most pragmatic, realistic, creative, and helpful books I've used in working with alcoholics and other addicts. This approach, which integrates easily with other techniques, is based mainly on approaching people with an open mind and a willingness to treat their perceptions and wishes as the basis for working together on problems, rather than trying to dictate those things to them as sometimes happens with other methods.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably influential at the time, but now it just reiterates what practices clinicians already implement. Good case studies too, they show the method well.

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

This creative approach to engaging with persons with alcohol abuse/dependence is very thought provoking and helpful. Berg has some controversial stances - 12 step members will probably bristle are her suggestion that alcoholics can safely drink again after gaining insight. She has wonderful common sense shortcuts that translate to any human interaction. This is a book to read and discuss.