Citation

Nelson TS, Sullivan NJ. J. Couple Relationsh. Ther. 2007; 6(1): 45.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J398v06n01_05

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Therapies for alcoholism, substance abuse, and other addictions traditionally focus on characteristics of individuals such as behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. These kinds of programs tend to target problems inside the abusing person rather than a relational system. Treatments that are more recent locate the problems within systems of people. Regardless of the locus or cause of the abuse or addiction, seen as arising from disease processes, systemic dynamics, or other mechanisms that lead to unfortunate habits and behaviors, utilizing the individual's partner or family in therapy has become an important part of successful treatment. This article reviews models of couple treatment for alcoholics and substance abusers in terms of initiation into treatment, primary treatment, and relapse prevention.

Keywords: Substance abuse; alcohol treatment; couple therapy; family therapy