State and federal criminal justice systems are facing burgeoning prison populations swelled by drug offenders. Mandatory sentences for drug offenders have resulted in an estimated 60 to 80 percent of prison inmates who have substance abuse problems in both state and federal correctional systems. Therefore, it is not surprising that both systems have been working to establish drug treatment programs. Such programs offer special opportunities for both the offender and for the criminal justice system. The circumstances of incarceration actually provide better opportunities for treatment than are usually available in community settings.

The first article of this series explored setting the stage and orienting the client to addiction counseling, and the second outlined considerations for screening and assessing to help them determine their options. The third installment of this series explores strategies and considerations for aligning treatment planning, recovery tools, and recovery contracts based on the client's needs and readiness.

The efficacy of women's substance abuse treatment is well documented (Morash and Bynum, 1995; Falkin et al., 1994; CASA, 1996). There have been numerous books, articles, and studies supporting the need for gender-specific treatment for women. Visionaries such as Stephanie Covington have made a tremendous difference to the depth and scope of chemical dependency treatment for women of all ages. Issues of abuse and trauma, the core work for many women, became more readily approachable in the absence of men. Creating a safe environment in which to process that work was the driving force behind the foundation of the Center for Women's Recovery at the Hanley Center, where an all-female staff in a supportive atmosphere has proven to be very effective.

As an addictions professional, you are no doubt painfully aware that use of methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, has skyrocketed over the past decade.  Millions of Americans have been seduced by this poisonous drug, lured by its promise to produce a cheap high.