Come As You Are: Harm Reduction Drop-In Groups for Multi–Diagnosed Drug Users

Abstract

Harm reduction is a radical new paradigm in substance abuse treatment. It is most noted for its public health interventions, such as syringe exchange, with active drug users in order to reduce the harms associated with alcohol and other drug use. Harm reduction therapy is the treatment approach of the harm reduction movement. Harm reduction therapy, and harm reduction therapy groups, particularly the drop-in groups discussed in this paper, extend a low-threshold welcome to people with unresolved substance abuse problems. Harm reduction groups have been found by the authors of this paper to be an excellent way to engage dually diagnosed individuals in an ongoing treatment process. Members are encouraged to focus on the issues of greatest concern to them, which makes this a truly integrated treatment.