Expanding access to treatment for substance abuse.

The Issue

Addiction is a major public health problem in the United States. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 22 million Americans are dependent on or abuse alcohol or illicit drugs.

Substance use adversely affects families, communities, and individuals. Yet, the vast majority of people with substance use disorders do not receive the treatment they need.¹ Addiction counselors and other providers need training about the most effective evidence-based and promising practices that support recovery.

Shaping the Solution

The Center for Social Innovation promotes best practices to support and maintain recovery:

• Recovery-Oriented Care is based on the notion that recovery is possible for everyone. Embracing this value transforms treatment services.
• Motivational Interviewing is a person-centered clinical strategy that helps people resolve ambivalence and move toward change.
• Stages of Change help people think differently about their behavior and consider what might be gained through change.
• Integrated Treatment uses the same clinician or treatment team to provide concurrent, coordinated care for people with co-occurring mental illness and substance use.
• Self-Help Programs are based on the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-Step approach that focuses on developing personal responsibility within the context of peer support.