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Undergraduate Studies ePortfolio

George M. KnoerleinPsychology, 2011

Personal Statement

The purpose of this personal statement is to introduce myself to you and to present my personal and professional development and goals. At the end of this statement you will know the areas of professional and personal development that made me who I am today. You will also have an understanding of my future personal and professional goals and why I am prepared to accomplish those goals. My personal development consists of many accomplishments and many areas of growth. One area where there has been great personal development is in the area of giving back to others. I have always had a desire to give to others and in particular help others succeed in life. I have developed this goal in my personal life by being on committees and groups that give to those in need. I have served in leadership positions on committees that focus on reaching out to others in need. These service projects consist of providing food to the homeless and providing other basic necessities. My leadership ability has developed and grown as a result of fulfilling my desire to help others. Another area of development in my personal life has been in helping the youth in my community. I have served on youth organizations that have mentored and encouraged youth to set and accomplish their goals. I have also served in the capacity of youth leader for these organizations and developed my skill of leadership and compassion for youth to motivate young people in my community.

My personal goals consist of continuing to find a way to give to my community by volunteering. My goal is to be involved in one volunteer project throughout the year. This is an important personal goal because I want to continue to use my abilities and time to help others. In addition, I want to continue to take the time to spend quality time with my family and friends. This is an important goal because this is one of the ways that I recharge my batteries. I will continue to use my qualities of loyalty, kindness and commitment to my family, friends and community. It is important that I continue to work towards balance in my life. My goal is to find the appropriate balance in my life between giving to myself and giving to others. I find that it is important to make concrete personal goals and to not over extend myself.

My professional development has been a journey that I am extremely proud of. Growing up I never felt that I had direction or knew what it was that I wanted to do as a profession. After I graduated from high school I did not think that college was an option and therefore I began working in the restaurant business. I quickly advanced in this business from server to management. I learned many valuable skills in regards to customer service and how to motivate others. I decided to obtain my associates degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling. I attended a community college Part-time and continued to work in the restaurant business fulltime. I earned my associates degree and completed an internship at an outpatient substance abuse program. I obtained a job as a counselor at a transitional substance abuse treatment program for men. My duties included formulating treatment plans with the clients, facilitating groups and working with the men to help them obtain employment. In addition I also worked with the men to help them obtain permanent housing. As the counselor of this program, I was also responsible for ensuring that the day to day functions of the program were completed and worked with the other staff to ensure quality of care for the clients.

Personal Statement (continued)

After working as the counselor in this program for about a year I was promoted to a position with the corporate office as the Client and Employee Relations Manager. In this position I worked with the clients of four residential treatment programs to overcome any concerns or complaints that may be obstacles to them remaining in treatment. I also worked with the staff to improve their skills in working with clients and the clients’ family members. After approximately one year in that position I was promoted to my current position in the same agency as the Director of Operations. In my current position my duties include working with the clients and families to address any concerns or complaints that they may have, supervising and training the staff to improve quality of care and managing the day to day operations of the residential treatment programs.

In this role I am able to use my counseling skills in working with the clients and their families but I am also able to use my management skills in working with the staff. My current position allows me to have the best of both worlds which is to continue to work with the clients to ensure their success in treatment and to work with the staff to improve the care they provide to the clients. I have been working at my current place of employment for seven years which I enjoy very much because it is a nonprofit substance abuse treatment organization that puts the needs of the clients first.

During my professional work I continued to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Most of my course work for my degree has been earned at Argosy University Online programs. I will earn my bachelors degree in April of 2011. The skills that I have obtained through my education are counseling skills and competencies, effective negotiation skills, conflict resolution skills, communication skills, organizational management and many other skills that have improved my knowledge and abilities in working in the substance abuse treatment field. In addition to the education that I have received at Argosy University Online program, I have also attended many trainings provided by my place of employment. These trainings consist of customer service techniques, treatment assessment tools, group facilitation, licensure and accreditation requirements and adjunct therapies.

Resume

George Knoerlein2057 Putnam Road, Halethorpe, MD. 21227Phone: 410-247-1770Cell: 443-904-4481knoerleins152002@verizon.net Education:B.A, Psychology, Argosy University Online Program, April 2010A.A, Chemical Dependency Counseling, The Community College of Baltimore County, May 2004 Certifications:Alcohol and Drug Trainee. Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. 2004Certified Supervised Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. 2009 Experience:Director of Clinical Operations, 2005 – presentPhoenix Houses of the Mid Atlantic521 N. Quincy Street Arlington, VA 22203Duties:Supervise seven residential substance abuse treatment programsServe as Human Rights advocates for clients.Conduct concerned persons group for client’s families.Provide staff supervision and trainings.Facilitate employee issues/grievances.Manage operations budget.Ensure programs are in compliance with local Licensing Agency. 

Resume (continued)

Primary Counselor, 2004 – 2005Halfway Home, Adult Male Residential Transitional ProgramPhoenix Houses of the Mid Atlantic (Formerly Vanguard Services Unlimited)1200 College AvenueEllicott City, MD 21042Duties:Facilitated counseling groups.Provided case management to all clients. Implemented behavioral management system to clients.Developed treatment plans with clients. Assessment Counselor Intern, 2003 – 2004Pathways Outpatient Program900 Charles StreetTowson, MD Duties:Provided substance abuse assessments.Co-facilitated substance abuse didactic lecturesCo-facilitated substance abuse group counseling. Research Skills:Conducted various research assignments as required by Psychology program at Argosy University. Research

conducted by reviewing journal articles and developing research question based on research conducted. Research was appropriate to assignment requirements and topics related to Psychology course.

 

Resume (continued)

Presentations: Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Phoenix Houses of the Mid Atlantic Employee Training. 2009. Arlington, Virginia.

Presented concept of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and ways to implement in a substance abuse treatment setting.

 Effective Behavior Management Approaches. Phoenix Houses of the Mid Atlantic Employee Training. 2008. Arlington,

Virginia. Presented Behavior Management techniques and how to implement with multiple populations in a residential treatment setting.

 Awards and Honors: Employee of the year, Phoenix Houses of the Mid Atlantic 2005 Magna Cum Laude, Community College of Baltimore County 2004 Christian Service Award, Grace United Church of Christ 2002 Professional Associations: NAADAC, The Association for Addiction Professionals  Community Involvement: Mission Task Force Chairperson. Grace U.C.C. Baltimore, Maryland 2008 – present. Youth Leader. Grace U.C.C. Baltimore, Maryland 1995 – 2000 Skills and Qualifications: Counseling TechniquesConflict NegotiationEffective ManagementMicrosoft Office, Internet References:Excellent references available upon request.

Reflection

My tenure at Argosy University Online program has been a very positive experience that I will remember for many years. When I enrolled in online classes I was very hesitant and was not sure if I would be successful at online learning. My experience at Argosy Online program has given me confidence in my ability to manage my time and successfully complete assignments. My computer skills have improved as a result of the online program and in addition I have learned how to effectively communicate through the written word. My research skills have also greatly improved as a result of my undergraduate studies and I have learned how to research and review articles and write a good academic paper. Some of the specific cognitive abilities that I have learned is to formulate reasoned opinions on a wide range of psychological perspectives and theories within written and oral presentations. I have also gained skills in presenting (in written work or orally), assesses a given topic from multiple perspectives and evaluates merit of each perspective. I am now able to systematically analyze and appraise the complexities of a given issue. I have always considered my communication skills to be good. However I have improved my ability to communicate as a result of my undergraduate studies. Specifically I have the ability to design, develop, and defend appropriate levels of organizations and clarity of presentation, thus allowing the listener to following the line of reasoning. I also have the ability to design, develop, and defend appropriate level of presentation for audience, correct use of grammar, word choice for precise meaning. In addition my ability to present oral presentations are very extensive and of high caliber.

One area of continued growth that I recognize is in the area of cultural awareness. I do

understand the importance of awareness and knowledge/skill development in regards to diversity in psychology, but I would like to continue to improve in the area of analyzing and applying multicultural-sensitive theories, thoughts, and beliefs to specific psychological issues. I would also like to continue to be aware of and grow as I recognize personal biases, and work to increase awareness and respect for diverse populations.

Table of Contents

Research Skills

The following slides is a work sample of a literature review paper that I completed in April 2011 during my undergraduate studies.

Critical Thinking

 

 

 

 

 

Success in Substance Abuse Treatment

George M. Knoerlein

Argosy University

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Abstract

This literature review was conducted to determine why substance abuse treatment works for some individuals and not for

others. The purpose of this review was to determine what techniques or factors contribute to the success of individuals in substance abuse

treatment programs. Journal articles were gathered and reviewed and a total of ten articles were selected and used for this paper. Journal

articles were chosen based on research or studies that were conducted to determine what factors contribute to people ending their substance

use. Based on the information gathered from the journal articles, there appears to be a compelling argument that individuals are more likely to

succeed in treatment when four factors are present. These factors are the resolving of external pressures, when there is internal motivation to

change, when a therapeutic alliance is established with treatment professionals and when family based interventions are used.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Success in Substance Abuse Treatment

Many individuals and families are affected by substance use disorders. Substance use disorders take a toll on the individual, their

families, the community and society as a whole. People attempt to address their substance use disorders by participating in substance abuse

treatment programs. For some, treatment is successful at addressing the substance use disorder and for others treatment often results in failed

attempts at sobriety. Why does substance abuse treatment work for some and not others? What specific methods or approaches are more

successful at treating substance use disorders then others? What factors determine the success of individuals in substance abuse treatment

programs? There are several factors that influence the treatment success rate for individuals who have substance use disorders. Research

shows that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when external pressures are resolved, when there is internal motivation to

change, when a therapeutic alliance is established with treatment professionals and when family based interventions are used (Barber, 1995).

One prevailing argument is that individuals appear to be more successful in treatment when external pressures are resolved.

Female substance abusers often leave treatment early due to factors such as childcare, problems with social support and a lack of spousal

support (Rao, Czuchry & Dansereau, 2009). These issues serve as a distraction in treatment and often result in the individual leaving

treatment early. Some substance abuse treatment programs have addressed these issues by providing some kind of childcare and including the

resolving of other external pressures as a part of treatment (Rao et al, 2009). Once these issues are reasonably resolved the individuals can

focus on treatment and individuals can be successful at treatment. Research also shows that women enter substance abuse treatment with

more concerns of sexually transmitted diseases and communication issues (Rao et al, 2009). Treatment programs that offer gender-specific

interventions which include curricula that address HIV/AIDS prevention and communication training report having higher retention rates

(Rao et al, 2009).

Another prevailing argument is that individuals are likely to succeed in treatment when there is internal motivation to change.

Studies show that internal growth, level of maturity and perception in the ability to reach goals are factors that determine treatment success in

adolescents (Wisdom & Gogel, 2010). Even though many people enter treatment as a result of external consequences it is internal motivation

to change that determines success in treatment. Making a personal decision to change is a major factor in intrapsychic changes (Cunningham,

Koski-Jannes & Toneatto, 1999). Internal changes are needed for the individual to make lasting changes that support sobriety. Treatment

outcomes are improved when individuals gain internal motivation to change (Simpson, 2004). A significant factor in facilitating internal

motivation to change is a comprehensive treatment approach. A working knowledge of the goals of substance abuse treatment must be shared

among the person in treatment, their families and the treatment staff (Wisdom & Gogel, 2010). When this approach is taken there is a higher

likelihood of internal motivation to change.

Another prevailing argument is that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when a therapeutic alliance is

established with treatment professionals. Clinical outcomes in substance abuse treatment are influenced by establishing a therapeutic alliance

with the treatment professional (Darchuk, 2007). Motivation for treatment can be influenced by building a strong therapeutic alliance with

counselors or therapists. Resistance to treatment can also be overcome by building a therapeutic alliance. Building a therapeutic alliance with

the treatment provider allows the individual receiving substance abuse treatment to build a sense of hope and therefore may believe that they

can succeed in treatment (Barber, 1995). It is the treatment professional’s responsibility to actively establish a therapeutic alliance with the

substance abuse patient (Barber, 1995). One of the first steps in this is for the treatment professional to find out what motivates the patient.

Treatment professionals must build a rapport with the patient which is the feeling of harmony and confidence between the patient and

counselor (Barber, 1995). When this is done the patient begins to trust the counselor. Substance abuse patients that trust their treatment

professionals are more likely to be successful in substance abuse treatment (Barber, 1995).

The last prevailing argument is that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when family based interventions are utilized.

Studies show that family based interventions in substance abuse treatment improve client outcomes (Rao et al, 2009). Family based

interventions address factors that influence the success of adolescents in treatment. Family based interventions improve family functioning

which improves success with abstinence (Rao et al, 2009). Individuals also appear to be more engaged in treatment when their family is

involved in treatment. Family support and family focused treatment improves the patient’s engagement in treatment (Rao et al, 2009).

Specific aspects of family life and family relationships have strong and consistent connections to the initiation of relapse of drug problems

(Rao et al, 2009). Addressing these issues with family based interventions improve the treatment outcomes of individuals. These interventions

also improve the functioning of the family as a whole (Rao et al, 2009). Family based interventions improve the retention of those in

substance abuse treatment as well as decrease their changes of relapse after they leave treatment. Studies show that teens in family-based

therapy not only reduce their drug use during therapy but also maintain these treatment gains up to twelve months post discharge (Rao et al,

2009).

There is an opposing argument that states that other factors are involved in individuals stopping their drug use that does not involve

substance abuse treatment. Studies suggest that there are seven factors that were involved in individuals voluntarily stopping their use of

drugs (Cunningham, Koski-Jannes & Toneatto, 1999). These factors are health problems, physical illness, problems with a spouse, work

problems, legal problems, sudden frightening or humiliating experience and personal crisis (Cunningham et al, 1999). Treatment as a factor

leading to change was not mentioned by participants in one study and treatment as a factor was striking by its absence in most studies

(Cunningham et al, 1999). However one former cannabis user reported that he switched from cannabis to alcohol because it was cheaper

(Cunningham et al, 1999). This report brings into question the accuracy of the information reported regarding abstinence of substances.

There are strengths and weaknesses with the articles used in this review paper. One strength is that the articles are based on research

or studies that use several types of treatment modalities. This strengthens the hypothesis because the factors found to contribute to treatment

success is based on multiple treatment approaches. Another strength is that the articles were based on research or studies conducted with

various age groups and both genders. This also strengthens the hypothesis because it examines the factors that affect different genders and

age groups. One weakness of the articles used is that three of them were written more than ten years ago. This is a weakness because some of

the information may be outdated or based on old treatment practices. Another weakness of the articles is that some of the information

gathered in the articles was based on verbal reports from substance abusers and their families. This is a weakness because in some cases the

information that is reported by substance abusers is not always accurate.

The research question proposed in this paper is important for many reasons. The first reason is that substance use and abuse

affects many individuals and families. Substance use disorders take a toll on individuals, families, communities and society as a whole. In one

way or another substance use and abuse affects all of us. Effectively treating substance use disorders will benefit all of us. In addition there is

government and state dollars that is being spent on substance abuse treatment each year. To better justify the spending of this money

substance abuse providers need to use research to improve the treatment that is being provided. This research question is also important

because substance abuse treatment must change as many other professions have. Like other professions it is important for the substance abuse

treatment field to adjust to the changing times. Even though the treatment field has progressed over the years there are still outdated practices

that must be changed. Substance abuse treatment approaches must be based on research findings and not on old practices that may no longer

be effective. This research question is important and relevant because it allows the current research to be used to improve treatment

outcomes.

There are future research questions that can be asked in order to further this area of study. One question would be, is there one factor

out of the four mentioned that improves treatment outcomes over the other? Do all four factors mentioned above have the same effect on

treatment outcomes? Another question could be does all four factors have to be present at the same time for substance abuse treatment to be

successful? Another question would be are the factors above more successful with certain populations than others? Is family support and

family focused interventions more important in treating adolescents over adults? How much of an influence is gender and or age in resolving

external factors?

 

References

Barber, J. G. (1995). Working with resistant substance abusers. Social Work, 40(1), 17-23

Chatlos, J. C. (1997). Substance use and abuse and the impact on academic difficulties.

Child and Adolescent Clinics of North America, 6, 545-568.

Cunningham, J.A., Koski-Jannes, A. & Toneatto, T. (1999). Why do people stop their

drug use? Contemporary Drug Problems, 26, 4. Retrieved on March 2, 2011 from http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/

233177492?accountid=34899

Czuchry, M., Sia, TL. & Dansereau, D. F. (2006). Improving early engagement and

treatment readiness. Prison Journal 86 (1): 56-74.

Darchuk, A. J. (2007). The role of the therapeutic alliance, treatment outcome,

motivation, adolescent, substance abuse treatment, (Doctoral dissertation) Retrieved on March 1, 2011 from

http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Rao, S. R., Czuchry, M. & Dansereau, D. F. (2009). Gender differences in psychosocial

functioning across substance abuse treatment. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs. Retrieved on March 2, 2011 from

http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Rowe, C.L. & Liddle, H. A. (2003). Substance abuse. Journal of Marital and Family

Therapy, 29, 1. Retrieved on March 2, 2011 from

http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Simpson, D. (2004). A conceptual framework for drug treatment process and outcomes .

Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment. 27 (2): 99-121.

Sussman, S., Skara, S. & Ames, S. (2008). Substance abuse among adolescents.

(Doctoral Dissertation) Retrieved on March 2, 2011 fromhttp://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?

accounted=34899

Wisdom, J., P, & Gogel, L. P. (2010). Perspectives on adolescent residential substance

abuse treatment: When are adolescents done? Psychiatric Services 61, 8. Retrieved on March 1, 2011 from

http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accounted=34899

 

AbstractThis literature review was conducted to determine why substance abuse treatment works for some individuals and not for others. The purpose of this review was to determine what techniques or factors contribute to the success of individuals in substance abuse treatment programs. Journal articles were gathered and reviewed and a total of ten articles were selected and used for this paper. Journal articles were chosen based on research or studies that were conducted to determine what factors contribute to people ending their substance use. Based on the information gathered from the journal articles, there appears to be a compelling argument that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when four factors are present. These factors are the resolving of external pressures, when there is internal motivation to change, when a therapeutic alliance is established with treatment professionals and when family based interventions are used.

Success in Substance Abuse TreatmentMany individuals and families are affected by substance use disorders. Substance use disorders take a toll on the individual, their families, the community and society as a whole. People attempt to address their substance use disorders by participating in substance abuse treatment programs.

For some, treatment is successful at addressing the substance use disorder and for others treatment often results in failed attempts at sobriety. Why does substance abuse treatment work for some and not others? What specific methods or approaches are more successful at treating substance use disorders then others? What factors determine the success of individuals in substance abuse treatment programs? There are several factors that influence the treatment success rate for individuals who have substance use disorders. Research shows that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when external pressures are resolved, when there is internal motivation to change, when a therapeutic alliance is established with treatment professionals and when family based interventions are used (Barber, 1995).

One prevailing argument is that individuals appear to be more successful in treatment when external pressures are resolved. Female substance abusers often leave treatment early due to factors such as childcare, problems with social support and a lack of spousal support (Rao, Czuchry & Dansereau, 2009). These issues serve as a distraction in treatment and often result in the individual leaving treatment early. Some substance abuse treatment programs have addressed these issues by providing some kind of childcare and including the resolving of other external pressures as a part of treatment (Rao et al, 2009). Once these issues are reasonably resolved the individuals can focus on treatment and individuals can be successful at treatment. Research also shows that women enter substance abuse treatment with more concerns of sexually transmitted diseases and communication issues (Rao et al, 2009). Treatment programs that offer gender- specific interventions which include curricula that address HIV/AIDS prevention and communication training report having higher retention rates (Rao et al, 2009).

 

Critical Thinking cont.

Another prevailing argument is that individuals are likely to succeed in treatment when there is internal motivation to change. Studies show that internal growth, level of maturity and perception in the ability to reach goals are factors that determine treatment success in adolescents (Wisdom & Gogel, 2010). Even though many people enter treatment as a result of external consequences it is internal motivation to change that determines success in treatment. Making a personal decision to change is a major factor in intrapsychic changes (Cunningham, Koski-Jannes & Toneatto, 1999). Internal changes are needed for the individual to make lasting changes that support sobriety. Treatment outcomes are improved when individuals gain internal motivation to change (Simpson, 2004). A significant factor in facilitating internal motivation to change is a comprehensive treatment approach.

A working knowledge of the goals of substance abuse treatment must be shared among the person in treatment, their families and the treatment staff (Wisdom & Gogel, 2010). When this approach is taken there is a higher likelihood of internal motivation to change.

Another prevailing argument is that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when a therapeutic alliance is established with treatment professionals. Clinical outcomes in substance abuse treatment are influenced by establishing a therapeutic alliance with the treatment professional (Darchuk, 2007). Motivation for treatment can be influenced by building a strong therapeutic alliance with counselors or therapists. Resistance to treatment can also be overcome by building a therapeutic alliance. Building a therapeutic alliance with the treatment provider allows the individual receiving substance abuse treatment to build a sense of hope and therefore may believe that they can succeed in treatment (Barber, 1995). It is the treatment professional’s responsibility to actively establish a therapeutic alliance with the substance abuse patient (Barber, 1995). One of the first steps in this is for the treatment professional to find out what motivates the patient. Treatment professionals must build a rapport with the patient which is the feeling of harmony and confidence between the patient and counselor (Barber, 1995). When this is done the patient begins to trust the counselor. Substance abuse patients that trust their treatment professionals are more likely to be successful in substance abuse treatment (Barber, 1995).

The last prevailing argument is that individuals are more likely to succeed in treatment when family based interventions are utilized. Studies show that family based interventions in substance abuse treatment improve client outcomes (Rao et al, 2009). Family based interventions address factors that influence the success of adolescents in treatment. Family based interventions improve family functioning which improves success with abstinence (Rao et al, 2009). Individuals also appear to be more engaged in treatment when their family is involved in treatment. Family support and family focused treatment improves the patient’s engagement in treatment (Rao et al, 2009). Specific aspects of family life and family relationships have strong and consistent connections to the initiation of relapse of drug problems (Rao et al, 2009). Addressing these issues with family based interventions improve the treatment outcomes of individuals. These interventions also improve the functioning of the family as a whole (Rao et al, 2009). Family based interventions improve the retention of those in substance abuse treatment as well as decrease their changes of relapse after they leave treatment. Studies show that teens in family-based therapy not only reduce their drug use during therapy but also maintain these treatment gains up to twelve months post discharge (Rao et al, 2009).

Critical Thinking cont.

There is an opposing argument that states that other factors are involved in individuals stopping their drug use that does not involve substance abuse treatment. Studies suggest that there are seven factors that were involved in individuals voluntarily stopping their use of drugs (Cunningham, Koski-Jannes & Toneatto, 1999). These factors are health problems, physical illness, problems with a spouse, work problems, legal problems, sudden frightening or humiliating experience and personal crisis (Cunningham et al, 1999). Treatment as a factor leading to change was not mentioned by participants in one study and treatment as a factor was striking by its absence in most studies (Cunningham et al, 1999). However one former cannabis user reported that he switched from cannabis to alcohol because it was cheaper (Cunningham et al, 1999). This report brings into question the accuracy of the information reported regarding abstinence of substances.

There are strengths and weaknesses with the articles used in this review paper. One strength is that the articles are based on research or studies that use several types of treatment modalities. This strengthens the hypothesis because the factors found to contribute to treatment success is based on multiple treatment approaches. Another strength is that the articles were based on research or studies conducted with various age groups and both genders. This also strengthens the hypothesis because it examines the factors that affect different genders and age groups. One weakness of the articles used is that three of them were written more than ten years ago. This is a weakness because some of the information may be outdated or based on old treatment practices. Another weakness of the articles is that some of the information gathered in the articles was based on verbal reports from substance abusers and their families. This is a weakness because in some cases the information that is reported by substance abusers is not always accurate.

The research question proposed in this paper is important for many reasons. The first reason is that substance use and abuse affects many individuals and families. Substance use disorders take a toll on individuals, families, communities and society as a whole. In one way or another substance use and abuse affects all of us. Effectively treating substance use disorders will benefit all of us. In addition there is government and state dollars that is being spent on substance abuse treatment each year. To better justify the spending of this money substance abuse providers need to use research to improve the treatment that is being provided. This research question is also important because substance abuse treatment must change as many other professions have. Like other professions it is important for the substance abuse treatment field to adjust to the changing times. Even though the treatment field has progressed over the years there are still outdated practices that must be changed. Substance abuse treatment approaches must be based on research findings and not on old practices that may no longer be effective. This research question is important and relevant because it allows the current research to be used to improve treatment outcomes.

There are future research questions that can be asked in order to further this area of study. One question would be, is there one factor out of the four mentioned that improves treatment outcomes over the other? Do all four factors mentioned above have the same effect on treatment outcomes? Another question could be does all four factors have to be present at the same time for substance abuse treatment to be successful? Another question would be are the factors above more successful with certain populations than others? Is family support and family focused interventions more important in treating adolescents over adults? How much of an influence is gender and or age in resolving external factors?

References

Barber, J. G. (1995). Working with resistant substance abusers. Social Work, 40(1), 17-23

Chatlos, J. C. (1997). Substance use and abuse and the impact on academic difficulties. Child and Adolescent Clinics of North America, 6, 545-568.

Cunningham, J.A., Koski-Jannes, A. & Toneatto, T. (1999). Why do people stop their drug use? Contemporary Drug Problems, 26, 4. Retrieved on March 2, 2011 from http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Czuchry, M., Sia, TL. & Dansereau, D. F. (2006). Improving early engagement and treatment readiness. Prison Journal 86 (1): 56-74.

Darchuk, A. J. (2007). The role of the therapeutic alliance, treatment outcome, motivation, adolescent, substance abuse treatment, (Doctoral dissertation) Retrieved on March 1, 2011 from http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Rao, S. R., Czuchry, M. & Dansereau, D. F. (2009). Gender differences in psychosocial functioning across substance abuse treatment. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs. Retrieved on March 2, 2011 from http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Rowe, C.L. & Liddle, H. A. (2003). Substance abuse. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 29, 1. Retrieved on March 2, 2011 fromhttp://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accountid=34899

Simpson, D. (2004). A conceptual framework for drug treatment process and outcomes. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment. 27 (2): 99-121.

Sussman, S., Skara, S. & Ames, S. (2008). Substance abuse among adolescents. (Doctoral Dissertation) Retrieved on March 2, 2011 fromhttp://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accounted=34899

Wisdom, J., P, & Gogel, L. P. (2010). Perspectives on adolescent residential substance abuse treatment: When are adolescents done? Psychiatric Services 61, 8. Retrieved on March 1, 2011 from http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/233177492?accounted=34899

My Future in Learning

I believe that we never stop learning and that learning both formally and through observations is an ongoing process. My formal learning will consist of going on to earn a Masters degree in counseling. I will do this so I can expand and secure my professional opportunities. I also want to continue my formal learning because I believe that the people who seek counseling deserve to have a professional who is up to date on educational requirements and new advancements in the field of counseling and psychology.

I also believe strongly in the power of observational learning. I believe that we learn from others every day and I also believe observational learning is an important part of personal and professional growth. I will continue my learning by being open to the knowledge I can gain from my colleagues and from the clients that I work with in the counseling field. I welcome the opportunity to become a better person both professionally and personally by being open to the everyday encounters that enhance my learning.

Contact Me

Thank you for viewing my ePortfolio.

For further information, please contact me at the e-

mail address below. knoerleins152002@verizon.n

et