Retention in outpatient drug-free treatment is poor, with many clients terminating prior to receiving therapeutic benefit. This randomized clinical trial compared the impact on retention and drug use of an individual role induction session conducted at intake with the standard group orientation offered at the clinic. Results of interim analyses indicated that participants assigned to role induction (n = 180) were retained for more days, more likely to attend at least one postorientation session, and more satisfied with the treatment program than were those assigned to standard treatment (n = 87). Preliminary results suggest that role induction is a brief technique that shows promise for retaining clients through the critical first 3 months of treatment.