LCSW Georgi DiStefano

The Paradigm Developmental Model of Treatment LCSW Georgi DiStefano

The Paradigm Developmental Model of Treatment (PDMT) was developed by the first author over the course of more than 30 years of private practice working with chemically dependent and substance abusing clients. In 2004, the model was first outlined. In 2005 a presentation was made to the professional community at a Grand Rounds sponsored by Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital, San Diego. In the following years it was adapted to counseling the DUI population. Subsequent articles followed and this book was completed in December 2009. This model was designed for individual face-to-face counseling sessions with clients and augments the group therapy process that occurs in most treatment programs. This model provides counselors and therapists with a framework that helps to conceptualize where a client is regarding their understanding of their AOD issues and what interventions might be most useful given this information. It is important to obtain a comprehensive AOD and psychiatric history prior to initiating the model with clients. Clients may need a psychiatric evaluation, medical stabilization, or medication management before they are ready to engage in a therapeutic process that requires insight, reflection and behavioral change.