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This article presents a sociocultural alcohol/drug counseling model for counselors working with Latino users/abusers. Intended to supplement different treatment models, this model addresses pretreatment issues of Latino users/abusers. A demographic overview of Latinos and a discussion of selected Latino cultural values and issues as they relate to substance use/abuse are included. These cultural values include Simpatia, Personalismo, Familismo, Gender Roles (Machismo and Hembrismo/Marianisimo), Verguenza, and Espiritismo. Along with identifying misperceptions and issues that may occur within the counseling session, specific recommendations and interventions for counselors are provided. Keywords - alcohol/drug counseling model; Latino users/abusers; Latino cultural values.

The author examines the effects of long-term unemployment on the family, the marital relationship, and, finally, the child. The impact of financial hardship stress, and emotional upheaval are discussed as they affect the family system. Counseling interventions are presented to assist the counselor in addressing th needs of children in these families.