Curriculum for Addiction Professionals > Competency 3: Treatment Strategies for Working with Clients with an FASD > 5d. Counseling Strategies
Competency 3: Treatment Strategies for Working with Clients with an FASD
Adults
Counseling Strategies
Due to the cognitive, social, and emotional deficits seen in FASD, counseling clients
with these conditions requires adaptability and flexibility. Traditional approaches
may not work and more effort may be needed to convey basic concepts. Many issues
arise in counseling adults with an FASD. It is important to:
- Set appropriate boundaries
- Be aware of the client’s strengths
- Understand the impact of any abuse the client has experienced
- Help the client cope with loss
- Address the stigma associated with an FASD
- Focus on self-esteem and personal issues
- Address resistance, denial, and acceptance