The Stages-of-Change model - based on research showing that people move through distinct stages, each marked by unique change processes - has become increasingly accepted in addictions treatment. This book helps group leaders to target their interventions toward their clients' stage-specific needs with a set of 29 group sessions. The sessions are presented in a logical order for implementation, but each can stand alone for greatest ease in incorporating into diverse treatment settings. As the authors note, the strategies presented are varied but "conventional" and firmly grounded in research on what works in addictions treatment. Their real innovation is to identify the change process underlying each strategy and key it to a particular stage of change. And, of course, to present it all in an easy-to-use format.

The first 3 chapters provide a brief overview of the Stages-of-Change (Transtheoretical) model, strategies for change, and general suggestions for implementing group treatment. The rest of the book presents a guide for conducting the sessions. Each well-organized chapter includes the content and process objectives of the session, the materials needed, a brief summary of the session, and both a detailed step-by-step guide to implementation as well as a brief outline that even gives an estimate of how much time each activity should take. Each chapter also includes reproducible client handouts.

A manual can't substitute for experience, but the level of detail makes this book ideal for students or professionals with less experience conducting structured groups. More experienced clincians will benefit from the wide array of strategies and from the creative methods for dealing with less-ready clients in a non-confrontational manner. The bibliography, training contacts, and helpful web sites are a nice addition for those who wish to learn more.