Extensively revised and enlarged since its first appearance, Under-standing and Counseling the Alcoholic is widely recognized as the seminal work in the field. It is of major importance to ministers, family counselors, or anyone whose life has been affected by alcoholism.

Dr. Clinebell begins by aquainting readers with alcoholism and the way it develops. He then discusses three three religious approaches to the problem, evaluates them, and presents a psychological analysis of each approach. By contrasting the various religious solutions with those that are nonreligious, he shows why religion provides an effective spiritual and psychological substitute for alcohol.