Canadian counselors working with young offenders confront at least two problems that interfere with effective intervention: a trend toward increased incarceration, and public confusion and mistrust over approaches to reducing crime. Research during the past decade is beginning to show clearly that programs for young offenders and other at-risk youth can work if they are built on principles that lead to effective behavior and attitude change. This research demonstrates that: (1) "quick fix" programs do not work; (2) programs employing single aims or strategies do not work; (3) successful programs are multi-faceted; (4) program effects can be missed due to faulty evaluation; (5) programs do not work when those who offer them don not believe in their efficacy; and (6) lack of program fidelity is a common cause of failure. Three effective sample programs currently being applied in Canada are briefly described. The conclusion is drawn that counselors and educators must have available to them a repertoire of programs that meet individual and group needs. (RB)