An innovative approach to methadone detoxification

An atmosphere can be created in which the user's anxiety during methadone or heroin detoxification is reduced via the facilitation of adaptive, druglike experiences provided through behavioral and psychological means. The switch to a nondrug life-style is promoted by the continued satisfaction of underlying needs which, through appropriate dosage, can lead to a higher probability of self-reliance abd abstinence. The addictive dependency on the nondrug, need-gratifying therapy is resolved through clinically monitored and graded frustrations.