This dissertation is a qualitative study on training in empowerment of practitioners that will impact treatment within the substance abuse field. The study explored training of practitioners and presented a model of integrative training that will enhance the state of the art in dealing with the substance-abusing client. Review of the literature in the intervention and treatment of the addictions reflects considerable gaps in the training of professionals and paraprofessionals. Although there are a number of training models provided, a consistent approach to the empowerment, professional education and training within this diverse field is not evident. More importantly, there is not, as validated in the literature, an integrative model of training for professionals and paraprofessionals which provides for co-joint training, interactional skill development, and sharing of attitudes which impact positively on the practitioner\u27s ability to engage and treat the substance abuser. These issues of improving training and education for professionals and paraprofessionals are of significance and are addressed in this study. The study of training and professional development utilized throughout a multi-method of inquiry, i.e., literature search, surveys, and interviews with practitioners. The study explores existing training and staff development and the potential needs/gaps noted by treatment staff through questionnaires and focus interviews. Data from all sources are categorized, organized, and summarized by using content analysis on all written and verbal communications. These data establish the existing level of training and identify specialized areas of concentration that are needed to impact professionalism and the delivery of services. This qualitative approach examines the training and staff development of practitioners--both professional and paraprofessional--and assesses which areas--knowledge, skill development, and attitudinal awareness--must be improved and what type of training designs are necessary to achieve these goals. Crucial in this quest is the method of training for education (pre-service) and staff development (in-service) which impact professionalism. Based on study findings, a training model is created that can impact the state of the art of training in the field of substance abuse
