DEVELOPING TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF METHADONE TREATMENT CLIENTS

The classical approach to methadone treatment is focused on rehabilitation and involves using methadone to stabilize the client physiologically; counseling to address psychosocial needs; and support services to overcome barriers to treatment and a productive life-style. Vocational services traditionally have been included in the latter component as a major factor in enabling clients to become functioning members of society. This paper reviews prior research on vocational services for methadone clients and presents preliminary findings from a randomly controlled trial of a training and employment program with 249 clients in three community-based programs. The results suggest that vocational services can increase access to training and vocational assistance programs significantly, increase school enrollment, and decrease unemployment.