Sex, Drugs, Gambling, & Chocolate: A Workbook for Overcoming Addictions

Back Cover

There Is An Alternative To 12-Step
Eliminate or reduce any type of addictive behavior with this practical and effective workbook. Treats addictions “as a whole”, rather than dealing separately with each issue (e.g., drinking, smoking, overeating, gambling…). Dr. Horvath’s rational approach is based on scientifically validated methods and emphasizes taking responsibility for your actions, without requiring an allegiance to a “higher power”. Teaches readers about consequences (and even possible benefits) of addictive behavior, alternative coping methods, choice, understanding and coping with urges, building a new lifestyle, preventing relapse. Includes dozens of exercises, self-study questions, guidelines for individual change plans.

“…this workbook could be invaluable to the individual who is searching for a reasoned and scientifically researched set of methods for overcoming addiction… this workbook might even be lifesaving… If you are ready for an alternative approach to overcoming addiction, this workbook could make a big difference in your life!”
G. Alan Marlatt, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology, University of Washington
Director of Addictive Behaviors Research Center

“…alcohol treatment programs in the U.S. have only slowly begun to offer [alternative] treatments… the best that science has to offer for overcoming addiction is not widely known… If you are considering treatment for yourself or another, you need to be aware of these alternatives… This workbook is a good place to learn about them… Try these strategies yourself and see how they can be helpful to you.”
Reid K. Hester, Ph.D.
Director, Research Division, Behavior Therapy Associates

“…frank and straightforward…a common sense and research-based alternative to 12-Step programs… a self-help manual with extensive detail, explanation, prudent advice… An invaluable resource.”
Mark B. Sobell, Ph.D.
Center for Psychological Studies, Nova Southeastern University

“…intelligent approach… extraordinary touch… Dr. Horvath has created a step-by-step program to overcome addictions… I recommend this book to all professionals interested in innovative and logical steps to enlist the patient’s active involvement in treatment and recovery.”
Rodrigo A. Munoz, M.D.
President, American Psychiatric Association

“…a common sense approach to a set of very difficult problems… For those who have an active curiosity about their trouble and can stay with it, what is offered here will help them understand what they are going through, broaden their understanding of the detail of where they have been, and help them change.”
Robert A. Zucker, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology in Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Michigan

“I think this book could do the world a lot of good.”
John J. Boren, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist, Treatment Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Retired

A. Thomas Horvath, Ph.D., is president of Practical Recovery Services, San Diego, California, which offers an alternative to 12-step and disease-oriented addiction treatment. He is president of SMART Recovery, a non-profit network of support groups for individuals abstaining from addictive behavior. From 1999-2000 he will serve as president of the American Psychological Association’s Division on Addictions. The Division has over 1200 members and is the world’s largest organization of addictive behavior psychologists.