THE ROLE OF NODE-LINK MAPPING IN INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP-COUNSELING

The value of using a visual representation strategy, called node-linki ng mapping, was evaluated in individual and group drug abuse counselin g settings. Methadone maintenance clients were randomly assigned to co unselors trained to use mapping techniques (n = 57), and those who use d standard counseling (n = 51). Clients in the mapping counseling grou p had more favorable perceptions of their own therapeutic engagement a nd progress as indicated by ratings of cognitive-behavioral and motiva tional attributes than did those in standard counseling. Overall, indi vidual sessions were viewed by clients as being more valuable than gro up counseling, but the use of mapping increased the helpfulness attrib uted to group counseling to neat the same level as individual counseli ng.