Discussion Board 3
Ryan Chrzanowski
CUOC691-D06
Liberty University
For one of this week’s discussion boards, we are tasked with discussing the theoretical
models we chose for the Theoretical Models and Approaches assignment and to also discuss why
we chose those specific models as well how our individual biblical worldview may have
impacted those choices. This is important because we as growing counselors know, there is never
just one theory or approach that works with every client. All clients are different, mental illness
is adaptive, we as counselors need to adapt as well and have a plethora of tools at our disposal.
The first model I selected was the Psychological Model as “Psychological models can
help explain and process some substance abuse disorders” (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2020). The
psychological model focuses on theories such as the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat
PTSD by helping clients to identify problem areas, apply coping skills, and learning to adapt and
adjust so they can control how specific traumatic memories affect them. I would relate this in a
biblical worldview as “teaching a man to fish,” which is actually a Chinese Proverb, but it comes
down to providing the client with the tools they need to regain control over their lives.
The second model I identified was the Sociocultural Model as this model applies to
everyone in some way or another. People are a product of their culture, friends, family, and
outside influences. Sociocultural models help “identify similarities and differences between
cultural groups and the influences on a person within those groups that may lead to substance use
disorder” (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2020). This model helps the counselor better understand what
influences, if any, the client was subject to throughout their life that lead them to where they are
today.
The third model selected dives even deeper into the Sociocultural Model by looking at
the family itself in the Family Model. The family model, however, does not look into relations to
see the interactions between family members and influences, but rather it looks at genes, disease
within the family, and other hereditary issues as well as the roles of family members within a
family unit. A family’s use of denial, minimization of the issues, and avoidance not only allow the
addiction to grow within that specific family member, but also normalizes that behavior which
perpetuates with future generations within that family (Lander et al., 2013). The sub- models of
the family model include; behavioral, family systems, and family disease (Capuzzi & Stauffer,
2020).
The final model I incorporated was the Developmental Model. This model is essential
when treating someone with addiction use disorder because it shines a light on what could have
occurred during key developmental stages of a client’s life that could have set them up for
addiction later into adulthood. According to Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2020, addiction can be explained
and understood through the use of developmental framework which can show the impact on
health, well-being, and even neurobiology based on when, during a client’s development, a
substance was first used.
The biblical worldview was an afterthought when considering these models, as I feel any
of these models would be beneficial for a client, regardless of their religious views, or whether or
not they wish to incorporate faith and religion into their treatment options. I feel that any of these
models coupled with medication when required, and a 12-step program such as AA or NA would
be extremely beneficial for the client when they are ready to battle their addiction by addressing
their substance use disorder.
REFERENCES
Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2020). Foundations of addictions counseling (4th ed.). New
York, NY: Pearson. ISBN: 9780135166932
Lander, L., Howsare, J., & Byrne, M. (2013). The impact of substance use disorders on families
and children: From theory to practice. Social Work in Public Health, 28(3-4), 194-205.
