A Cluster Analytic Study of Clinical Orientations Among Chemical Dependency Counselors

Abstract

Three distinct clinical orientations were identified in a sample of chemical dependency counselors (N = 406). Based on cluster analysis, the largest group, identified and labeled as “uniform counselors,” endorsed a simple, moral‐disease model with little interest in psychosocial interventions. A 2nd group, identified as “multiform counselors,” embraced an incongruent moral‐disease‐psychosocial model, and valued a myriad of treatment approaches. The smallest group, labeled “client‐directed counselors,” did not fully endorse Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) principles, valued non‐coercive treatment, and recognized coexisting psychopathology in clients. Results from a discriminant function analysis provided evidence to support the 3‐group cluster solution.