This chapter uses the bridge metaphor to examine what is important in the fields of substance abuse and child welfare: how to link them; how the linkage would look; who would control access to the bridge; some of the stresses on the bridge; and why anyone would want to cross the bridge. Child welfare may be viewed conceptually as three concentric spheres of defenses and enhancements: rugged individualism, or the expectation that an individual will be as self-sufficient as possible; the supportive types of services of the first sphere, plus supplemental services; and substitutive services. These spheres involve both defense against existing problems and enhancement of desired goals, and must be considered in relationship to a bridge to substance abuse. The chapter identifies the stakeholders in child welfare and substance abuse, describes a flow diagram of configural problem-solving, and investigates costs and benefits of the bridge between child welfare and substance abuse. References