CNL-501 Topics 7 and 8: Jed Case Study 

Read this case study below for the Topic 7 assignment. You may also watch or listen to the “What is Heroin Addiction” video located in the Topic 7 Resources to gain more insight regarding the mock client, Jed. 

A 30-year-old, Caucasian, male is seeking services due to his heroin use getting out of control. The client recently had a possession of heroin charge and is required to attend counseling for probation purposes. The “What Is Heroin Addiction” video tells his story from the future looking back on what his period of use was like. 

He is married with two children; however, he is currently separated due to his substance use and his wife’s concern of potential involvement of child protective services. 

What you know of his substance use history is during periods of heavy use he admits to physiological discomfort when he has stopped using for periods of time. He describes the first time he used as one in which he experienced a rush and could not wait to use heroin again. He experienced a euphoria he had never experienced before. He describes a sensation of feeling a burn leading to a mission to use heroin every chance he could. 

Over time, he identified the money he spent on heroin use began to lead to financial problems. Due to his physiological discomfort and cravings, he started stealing to pay for continued heroin. He convinced himself there was nothing wrong with this behavior because he had to do what he had to do to keep his use consistent and avoid the psychological and physical pain of ceasing his use. He was arrested for possession and has been incarcerated four times. He estimates the financial cost of his use is at least $250,000 as well as he has sold valuable possessions. He describes his process as a roller coaster ride in which he has ruined relationships with people he cares about, is an embarrassment, and he reached an ultimate low point in life. 

The client is coming to you for counseling services after a four-week period of incarceration. He has not used heroin or any other substance during this time; therefore, there is no concern for current withdrawal symptoms. The client states he started buying lottery scratch off tickets after he was released and recognizes he feels a slight rush when scratching off, as he has won some money from lottery tickets in the past. You will want to consider any potential process addictions and education to support the client’s recovery with positive coping skills.