This three-page PDF, “Overcoming Addiction: Steps to a New Beginning,” is designed to guide counselors in supporting clients who are beginning their recovery journey from substance use disorders. The document outlines essential steps for clients to take as they embark on their path to sobriety, emphasizing the importance of structured planning and the development of a strong support network. It also addresses common challenges associated with addiction, such as physical health issues, mental health disorders, and financial or legal problems. The PDF includes reflective exercises to help clients identify obstacles and create strategies to overcome them, fostering a comprehensive approach to recovery. This resource is intended to assist counselors in providing clear, actionable guidance to their clients, encouraging a proactive and informed recovery process.

Written by clinical psychologist Dr. Hal Baumchen, PsyD, LP, LADC, this printable PDF worksheet gives clinicians a practical, session-ready tool. The conversational, encouraging tone makes clinical concepts accessible to clients at any stage of therapy, while structured prompts keep the work focused and productive.

How clinicians use it: as an in-session exercise to open and structure discussion, as between-session homework to reinforce skills, as a progress tool to track growth over time, and as part of a treatment unit paired with the companion lesson and PowerPoint on this topic. Formatted for easy printing and immediate use in individual or group settings.

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