Proposes modifications of Problem Centered Systems Therapy (PCST)--a practice model for assessment and treatment--that addresses bicultural counseling with black families in general and black alcoholic families in particular. Defines culturally sensitive concepts considered important to treatment and integrates the identified concepts in…

Most treatment programs for alcoholics and their families fail to show a systematic understanding of the interaction between the alcoholic, his drinking problem, and the family as a whole. Based on a review of the literature, the author presents a systems approach and ways of utilizing it in practice. (Author)

Guidelines for casework with the family of the alcoholic indicate the importance of understanding that alcoholism is a treatable disease, of letting the alcoholic suffer the consequences of his drinking, and of demonstrating how self-help groups can be a valuable resource to the alcoholic and his family. (Author)