The value of using a visual representation strategy, called node-linking mapping, was evaluated in individual and group drug abuse counseling settings. Methadone maintenance clients were randomly assigned to counselors trained to use mapping techniques (n = 57), and those who used standard counseling (n = 51). Clients in the mapping counseling group had more favorable perceptions of their own therapeutic engagement and progress as indicated by ratings of cognitive-behavioral and motivational attributes than did those in standard counseling. Overall, individual sessions were viewed by clients as being more valuable than group counseling, but the use of mapping increased the helpfulness attributed to group counseling to near the same level as individual counseling.