Evaluates effectiveness of "Say It Straight" communication training with 36 mothers in residential chemical dependency treatment. Self-reported, disempowering behaviors showed highly significant decreases after SIS training, and empowering behaviors showed significant increases. Results indicate this training is an important addition to treatment and may have implication for shortened treatment time, increased treatment retention and reduction in relapse/recidivism. (Contains 36 references and 6 tables.) (GCP)