Wellness-Based Addictions Counseling

Book excerpt: This book presents a culture change in addictions treatment that places wellness at the forefront of relapse, addiction, and recovery. The authors introduce a wellness-based conceptualization of addiction and recovery including the wellness model that grounds Wellness-Based Addictions Counseling (WBAC) and the techniques of this approach. Wellness-Based Addictions Counseling advocates for wellness as the primary variable in addiction and recovery outcomes, presents a wellness-based model of addiction and recovery, and highlights techniques for unlocking the motivational and strength-based aspects of this approach. Specifically, the authors provide wellness questions and screening tools to incorporate into the clinical evaluation and structure for creating a wellness plan and family wellness plan for the client's loved ones. Readers will learn numerous wellness-based techniques related to the mind, body, spirit, emotions, and connection that can prevent relapse and facilitate well-being. All WBAC interventions are grounded in developmental, culturally responsive, and strength-based perspectives. Wellness-Based Addictions Counseling is essential reading for professionals who provide addictions treatment and counseling as well as scholars who conduct writing and research on addiction.