Case Management in Alcohol and Drug Treatment: Improving Client Outcomes

Abstract

Empirical research indicates that posttreatment factors, including employment, residential stability, and social and family support, influence the resiliency of treatment outcomes. The degree to which current treatment methods affect such outcomes is the subject of much research and debate. The authors argue that case management should be considered complementary to traditional treatment services. By focusing directly on community functioning and social rehabilitation, case management can positively affect factors associated with relapse and alcohol-related problems. A strengths-based, outreach model of case management is described.