Anecdotally, some drug-abusing patients report that they doubt (at least early on) that therapists who have not had drug problems themselves can truly understand their patients' plights. However, upon further questioning, it typically becomes apparent that this misconception arises when the patients perceive that their therapists take the view that, "Of course you want to quit using drugs. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose by becoming clean and sober." Patients then conclude that their therapists don't understand the power and allure of drugs such as cocaine.

Therefore, it is advisable for therapists to admit that cocaine is a difficult drug to relinquish, and that it would be reasonable and understandable for the patients to have a sense of grief about having to give up the drug (Jennings 1991). By acknowledging and asking about the patients' ambivalence, therapists communicate more accurate empathy, and open up a vital area of discussion that patient otherwise might believe it best to conceal.

In fact, one of the standard techniques in the repertoire of the cognitive therapist depends on the therapist's awareness of the patient's mixed emotions and attitudes-the advantages/disadvantages analysis (Beck et al. 1993). Here, therapist and patient explore the pros and cons of both using and not using drugs. Many patients express pleasant surprise that their therapists really are willing to discuss the pros of continuing to abuse drugs.

Although the ultimate goal obviously is to strengthen the patients' resolve, know-how, and commitment to be drug free, an exploration of the seductive aspects of drug use can help the formation of a trusting, collaborative therapeutic relationship.