ABSTRACT
At least in the case of alcohol, an ample body of research indicates that there is a relationship between the general level of consumption among members of a population and the number of substance-related problems that can be expected to occur (Grant, 1986). Thus, the fact that substance use is widespread means that therapists are very likely to be confronted by drug-or alcohol-related problems with great frequency . Therapists need to understand, however, that there is a vast difference between substance use and substance abuse or dependence. The DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) guidelines make clear
that substance use is considered a disorder only when the individual demonstrates an inability to control his or her use despite the appearance of cognitive, behavioral, and physiologic symptoms. Mere use of a substance that modifies mood or behavior is not considered a substance abuse problem unless the user 's functioning clearly is affected.
