Unlocking the Power Within: A Guide to Treating Women with Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders

If you are a woman struggling with alcohol or substance use disorder, or if you are a therapist seeking effective treatment strategies for your female clients, “Unlocking the Power Within: A Guide to Treating Women with Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders” is a must-read resource. This therapist guide, written by Elizabeth E. Epstein and Barbara S. McCrady, provides a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to addressing the unique needs of women with AUD and SUDs.

Women with AUD and SUDs face distinct challenges and obstacles in their recovery journey. From differences in etiology and mortality rates to variations in clinical presentations and relapse antecedents, it is crucial to have a treatment approach tailored specifically to these gender-specific issues.

Based on more than 25 years of NIH-funded studies, this guide offers detailed guidance for therapists, including session-by-session instructions, sample dialogues, worksheets, and completed examples. It is designed to be used in conjunction with the corresponding client workbook and can be implemented in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Why This Guide Stands Out

What sets “Unlocking the Power Within” apart from other resources is its cognitive-behavioral and motivation-enhancing approach. This evidence-based treatment modality has been proven effective in helping individuals with AUD and SUDs achieve long-term recovery.

The program spans 12 weekly sessions and focuses on helping women achieve abstinence, prevent relapse, and improve their overall quality of life. By addressing behaviors around drinking and drug use, and teaching essential coping skills like problem-solving, assertiveness training, wellness behaviors, and communication skills, this guide equips women with the tools they need to navigate their recovery journey successfully.

Recognizing the importance of female-specific interventions, the guide also includes strategies for building social network support and healthy relationships. By harnessing the power of peer support and shared wisdom in a group setting, women are encouraged to find strength and inspiration in their shared experiences.

What Readers Are Saying

Readers of “Unlocking the Power Within” have praised its comprehensive and practical approach to treating women with AUD and SUDs. Elizabeth E. Epstein and Barbara S. McCrady’s expertise shines through in the step-by-step instructions, making it easy for therapists to implement the treatment program.

Many readers have also highlighted the empowering and supportive nature of the therapy’s focus on peer support. By fostering a sense of camaraderie and understanding, women in group therapy settings have reported feeling less alone and more motivated to achieve their recovery goals.

One reviewer wrote, “This guide truly understands the unique challenges faced by women with AUD and SUDs. It is like having two experienced therapists by your side, guiding you through every session. The emphasis on peer support is incredibly empowering, and I have seen amazing transformations in the women I work with.”

Order Your Copy Today

If you are a woman struggling with AUD or SUD, or if you are a therapist seeking effective treatment strategies for your female clients, “Unlocking the Power Within” is a valuable resource. Order your copy today and take the first step towards unlocking your inner strength and achieving long-lasting recovery.

By Elizabeth E. Epstein, Barbara S. McCrady
Publisher: Oxford University Press (August 18, 2023)
Language: English
eBook Digital: 448 pages
ISBN-10: 0197655084
ISBN-13: 978-0197655085