This handbook in the new Practical Guides in Psychiatry series is designed for residents and clinicians treating patients with substance use problems. In lean and engaging prose, peppered with many clinical vignettes, Dr. Gitlow describes effective strategies and offers advice on topics such as the doctor-patient relationship, liability concerns, managed care demands, and medical ethics. The first section explains general clinical principles and describes various diagnostic approaches. The second section addresses problems particular to specific substances, while the third discusses global issues surrounding patient care and treatment. Appendices contain information that clinicians need to access quickly.
Psychiatric Times, 28-MAY-07 --
"The highly readable and informative second edition is a valuable handbook for treatment providers of all specialties. The book's tone reflects Dr Gitlow's extensive experience as a physician treating addictions and shows a clear understanding of the challenges of treating persons with substance use disorders. Perhaps the book's greatest strength is the undeniable care and compassion with which Dr. Gitlow approaches the treatment of patients with substance related problems. The author begins with a series of exercises that help the reader empathize with persons who have substance use disorders. Although the harm created by substance abuse is never de-emphasized, the book effectively aids readers in understanding the motivations and challenges laced by patients with problematic substance use disorders. Dr Gitlow's guide is useful in its breadth and it presents many details providers need to treat a patient with a substance use disorder. Substance Use Disorders is an enjoyable and informative resource for all types of treatment providers. Within this guidebook, clinicians will find a great deal of information on how to identify and treat persons who have substance use disorders."
Journal of Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental -- "Dr. Stewart Gitlow has written an invaluable guidebook on substance use disorders which will be of great interest to both skilled and inexperienced practitioners. The book is a compelling read and can also be used as a reference handbook within a clinical setting. Within each chapter Dr. Gitlow provides a comprehensive review on the topic, shares his clinical vignettes and his own clinical experiences. He brings together the theoretical background of substance use disorders and his application of them within his clinical setting. He has written the book in the language that can be understood by both medical practitioners and substance use disorders therapists. In the section headed research vignette, Dr. Gitlow provides the readers with most up-to-date research evidence for each of the topic areas discussed. Dr. Gitlow dedicates a chapter on spirituality within substance used disorder treatment which is a brave attempt to help practitioners to deal with this important concept. The treatment dilemmas are yet another important chapter to practitioners to consider ethical issues in treating their patients. Furthermore, the appendices provide several useful standardized examination tools, resources and an up-to-date reference list. In conclusion, I found this guidebook to be a valuable guidebook which I will refer to on a regular basis."
