Planting Seeds: A Client-Centered Approach to Addiction Treatment is thoroughly and coherently grounded in a peer-related program that offers leadership through empathy, insightfulness and peer support. As the title suggests Planting Seeds employs a client- centered approach that is presented in both an intelligent and eminently useful format. This manual was written for the clients and the material is presented in such a way that it relates to their experiences and holds their attention. Furthermore, as part of the curriculum, clients are guided through several personal narratives that enhance their understanding of how substance abuse has affected their lives.

This curriculum is presented in four phases; problem identification, blocks to recovery, building healthy relationships and relapse prevention. Planting Seeds can be used as a core curriculum or as needed on an individual basis. Each section in each phase is designed for group or individual counseling sessions. Planting Seeds may be used in any format where therapeutic intervention for substance abuse is needed. This curriculum has been successfully utilized in both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. Planting Seeds is also used as a guide that improves individual counseling sessions.

In this work, Art Kleinschmidt, draws on many years of experience in the field of addiction treatment, meticulously and empathically presents a powerful method with which to explore the complex relationship between individuals, environments, life circumstances, and addiction.