Gaps Between Addiction Treatment and Research: Challenges for Rehabilitation Counselors

Because addiction is frequently a secondary disability rehabilitation counselors must not only possess knowledge about the disability, but understand the current state of addiction treatment so they can help consumers make informed choices. This article describes the ideological differences that exist between many addiction researchers and treatment practitioners as well as other barriers that keep current addiction research from being used by agencies to make treatment decisions. These barriers can result in misinformation for consumers and challenges for rehabilitation counselors. Implications for rehabilitation counselors, including treatment and referral recommendations, are provided.