Advice for those who work with chemically dependent clients

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	Home » HIV/AIDS Program » Harm reduction and drug use » Advice for providers

HIV/AIDS Program
Advice for those who work with chemically dependent clients

Be a real person: Let clients see you as you really are.
Be a constant object- Always act the same way with the client.
Never take away defenses until client has a replacement defense.
Don't try to be a drug treatment expert if you aren't: Use the client as a consultant.
Avoid pushing total abstention from alcohol and/or other drugs unless client is so motivated; Use harm reduction model. Meet them where they are at. Focus on their goals.
Recognize power dynamics/differences
Resist seeing client only as needy and with deficits: Recognize their skills and abilities and help them to use them.
Normalize drug use: This is normal for your client
Recognize and appreciate the small or incremental changes.
Avoid labeling, confrontation, and excessive advice giving.

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related links

Chemical Abuse & Dependency Service Providers

A listing of agencies currently contracted for services with the Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Program.

Drug Abuse Trends in King County. Detailing local area drug trends based on treatment admissions, emergency department mentions and drug-caused deaths.

Updated: Wednesday, January 02, 2008 at 12:43 PM

All information is general in nature and is not intended to be used as a substitute for appropriate professional advice. For more information please call (206) 296-4600 (voice) or TTY Relay: 711. Mailing address: ATTN: Communications Team, Public Health - Seattle & King County, 401 5th Ave., Suite 1300, Seattle, WA 98104 or click here to email us.

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