At last, a book for use in the classroom and practice that informs and supports both beginning and experienced professional addictions counsellors in their work with Canadians challenged by substance use or the oppression of abuse.
This compendium contains historical, conceptual, theoretical, pharmacological, psychological, social, treatment, and prevention considerations. The section on becoming a strong addictions counsellor includes legal and ethical material and proceeds to a discussion of the competencies required for a sound practice.
Discussion questions at the conclusion of each chapter, a lengthy and complete bibliography for each reader's special interests, and a super-abundance of Canadian material all make this book a "must have" for the helping counsellor, policy maker, or teacher in the substance use and abuse field.Features:

• draws upon an abundance of Canadian material as well as real-world case studies and situational examples
• includes discussion questions at the conclusion of each chapter and a complete bibliography for further study
• contains appendices summarizing the history of psychoactive drugs in the Canadian context and global perspective

Rick Csiernik is a Professor at King’s University College, Western University. He has authored and edited several Canadian Scholars textbooks: Wellness and Work (2005); Responding to the Oppression of Addiction (co-edited with William S. Rowe, 2017, third edition); Substance Use and Abuse (2016, second edition); and Homelessness, Housing, and Mental Health (co-edited with Cheryl Forchuk and Elsabeth Jensen, 2011) . He has written more than 95 journal articles, and some of his research interests include addiction, Workplace Wellness, social work, and spirituality. He has consecutively been included on the King’s University College Honour Roll of Teaching, and is a recipient of the Instructor Appreciation Award at McMaster University.

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"A practical overview of theory, psychoactive substances, treatments, resources, and professional considerations. Both new and experienced practitioners charged with developing a meaningful response in difficult contexts will find this text invaluable. This book will provide excellent guidance long after graduation."— “Shelley Rempel, Professor, Social Service Worker Program, Mohawk College, Ontario