This manual describes a Relaxation-Information Presentation program based on the clinical observation that anxiety is a serious barrier to detoxification for many methadone clients, and on experimental evidence indicating that expectations may play a greater role in the discomfort experienced during detoxification than the actual methadone dose. The three elements of the treatment program are described: (1) redefinition of withdrawal symptoms; (2) relaxation training; and (3) use of anxiety as a cue to relax. Preliminary data obtained in a multi-site clinical trial evaluating the program are presented. Considerations about recruitment, attrition, and sequencing of treatment are discussed, and a session by session description of the treatment program is provided. While the treatment program described is targeted at methadone maintenance clients, this approach may be of value in treating outpatient heroin detoxification and drug patients who are experiencing anxiety related to factors other than detoxification. (Author)