Chapter 7 - Continuum of Care

Abstract

This chapter discusses continuum of care for substance abuse and dependence. The most effective and comprehensive treatment program is one that offers a continuum of care with a variety of treatment options, which can be utilized to develop a treatment plan that best fits the individual's unique needs. The continuum of care should be designed to facilitate and support the client's optimal level of functioning. To accomplish this, all components in the continuum of treatment must be related conceptually into a unified framework, so that the focus of treatment, regardless of where the individual is along the continuum, is readily identifiable. The sequence of treatment along the continuum enhances the client's understanding of his or her own treatment needs, which benefits his or her collaboration in developing the individualized treatment plan. This chapter concludes that the appropriate client–treatment match offers a framework that supports the client's maximum level of functioning via the least restrictive and appropriate treatment intervention.