Book excerpt: This authoritative work comprehensively examines all aspects of addictive disorders and their treatment. Leading researchers and practitioners identify best practices in assessment and diagnosis and provide tools for working with users of specific substances. Issues in working with particular populations--including polysubstance abusers, culturally diverse patients, women, and older adults--are addressed, and widely used psychosocial and pharmacological treatment approaches are reviewed. An indispensable text for anyone studying or treating these prevalent, challenging disorders, the book describes ways to tailor interventions to each patient's needs while delivering compassionate, evidence-based care.