An intensive, insight oriented series for probationers who are resistant or otherwise not ready to participate in traditional outpatient counseling settings. Appropriate referrals would include probation violators, drug court defendants, or those who may have already been through a basic education program (substance abuse or otherwise), but need further intervention because inappropriate choices and poor decision making skills continue to cause problems. The Next Step may also be viewed as an extension of other E. I. P. programs when offenders need a longer term, more intensive intervention to recognize a need for change and to learn how to go about making that change.

The sessions address issues relating to interpersonal relationships and lifestyle choices, as well as the role of alcohol and other drug use. The ten sessions will allow areas of special concern to be revisited as the series progresses. Our goal is to focus intensely on self-defeating behaviors and work to alter these behaviors by providing options in confrontive, interactive groups. Guided interaction among participants will afford opportunities to recognize and build upon progress and positive changes that will occur as the group meets. The series will serve much as a support group, and will provide an avenue to further counseling when needed.