CASC 240 - Counseling the Substance Abuser

Credit(s): 3
This advanced seminar examines current research on causes, prevention, and appropriate counseling techniques for the treatment of substance abuse use and co-occurring disorders. Through readings, role-playing, group discussions, and the site visits, students will become acquainted with therapeutic interventions in both early recovery and long-term treatment modalities. This course provides an in-depth understanding of the theories and practice of individual, family, and group counseling of substance use disorders. Students will learn to recognize substance use disorders using the DSM-5 and identify risk factors for prevention and relapse. Students will cultivate techniques that enhance cultural competence and the principles of group and family counseling with individuals that have substance use disorders. During this seminar, students will be introduced to the use of addiction medications for individuals with co-occurring disorders, for the suppression of withdrawal, and to relieve cravings, at the completion of the course. Students will have the skills necessary to make diagnostic impressions, develop psychosocial profiles, generate client treatment plans, and identify support services for appropriate referrals in the continuum of care.