Working with clients with addiction: what psychologists need to know.ColinO'DriscollauthorSeanFoyauthorAddiction is a common problem that practitioner psychologists face with their clients. It is however, the view and experience of the authors that specialised training in addiction treatment for psychologists is sparse, inconsistent and incomprehensive. As a consequence, psychologists may feel unskilled in this regard, referring clients onto specialist community based services where they may or may not be seen, or specialist residential (tier 4) services where they may or may not be accepted, or be able to afford (in time or cost). This article aims to give some context to the nature of these issues and the challenges facing practitioners, offer an overview of evidence in the treatment of addiction, and finally conclude with some guidance to psychologists in the treatment of these issues in the psychotherapeutic context.Drugs and alcohol related mental disorderPsychological assessmentPsychosocial treatment methodPatient care managementMental health careWorkforce / staff skills and trainingDoctorCounsellor / TherapistIreland2017-10Psychological Society of IrelandArticle