Thesis (M.A. (Maatskaplike Werk))--University of Pretoria, 2003. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 221-232).

This research project is a narrative study on the use of chess as a therapeutic medium in a substance abuse rehabilitation centre. Stabilis Treatment Centre served as the rehabilitation centre where the data was collected and the therapeutic sessions conducted. In this research report I introduced Stabilis Treatment Centre by exploring and providing an overview of their existing programmes. I have stated the research problem and the subsequent research question and goals. A literature review is included where information with regards to drug abuse, exercise psychology and the use of chess in various contexts is provided. The research methodology is examined and narrative practice is introduced and explored. The three participants in this research project are introduced and their experiences of playing chess are explored and extended to their experiences of life and relevant situations. This process is documented in letter format where I as researcher wrote letters to each participant reflecting on their experiences of using chess to narrate their personal narratives. This research project concludes where I summarize the results of this study as well as providing recommendations for future studies. / Dissertation (MA (Counselling Psychology))--University of Pretoria, 2008. / Psychology / unrestricted

The purpose of this study was a qualitative exploration of how gay men experienced the spiritual base of a substance abuse treatment program. The specific clientele are gay men who completed at least sixty days participation in an intensive LGBT outpatient treatment program and were living in a sober residence known as The Studios of Palm Springs, CA. The research question asked whether this program worked to develop spirituality for gay men.