Diagnosis & Treatment of Addictive Behaviors

PREREQUISITE:  None

The course provides education on the complex causes, impacts, and treatment of multiple addictions, including substance and behavioral dependencies to students and professionals interested in helping individuals and families affected by addiction. Diverse topics such as the pharmacology of psychoactive substances, the disease model of addiction, physical and psychological effects, diagnostic criteria, relapse and relapse prevention, etiology, and treatment modalities. Students learn about the neurobiology of addiction, assessment techniques, prevention strategies, and the impact on families and society. The course also explores various theoretical models, practical counseling skills, and the legal and economic dimensions of alcohol and drug addiction and other troublesome and compulsive behaviors such as gambling, sexual, and other harmful addictions. Students will be introduced to various models of addiction, such as chemical dependency and process addictions, and the effects of drugs on the brain and body, including tolerance and withdrawal. In addition, the course focuses on specific populations, public policy, public health, and the skills needed for assessment, counseling, and intervention strategies in diverse settings.

UPON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE, THE STUDENT WILL BE COMPETENT IN:

• Explaining the different counseling theories and approaches for substance abuse disorders and other troublesome and compulsive behaviors.
• Understanding the ethical and legal aspects in the treatment of addiction and demonstrating knowledge of how it affects individuals and families.
• Understanding and conducting alcohol and drug assessments using the SASSI, the ASI, the MAST, the DAST, CAGE, AUDIT, and other assessment instruments.
• Learning and understanding the biological effects of harmful addictive behaviors and the treatment and recovery process.
• Comprehending co-occurring disorders and how to integrate mental health and substance abuse treatment.
• Comparing and contrasting the differences between substance use and abuse.
• Developing complex case formulations that integrate theoretical perspectives, assessment data, client context, and research evidence related to addictive behaviors.
• Comprehending and demonstrating knowledge of harmful behavioral addictions, including gambling, internet and social media, video gaming, shopping, exercise, sexual, smoking, chocolate, and other compulsive addictions.
• Critically analyzing and applying an advanced understanding of the addiction and recovery process.
• Designing and implementing evidence-based treatment plans for individuals and families suffering from harmful and compulsive addictions.
• Evaluating the mental health and social impact of addictive behaviors on the U.S. economy.
• Assessing and applying advanced addiction treatment methods in mental health centers, hospitals, schools, government agencies, and other treatment settings.
• Illustrating the ability to create SMART goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, which ensures clarity, allows for progress tracking, and aligns with the overall project vision and client expectations.
• Evaluating how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used in addiction counseling to assist both clients and therapists, and understanding that it is not a replacement for essential human elements such as empathy, intuition, and clinical judgement.

ACQUIRED SKILLS:

• Assessment and Evaluation
• DSM Diagnostic Criteria
• Implementing Evidence-based Treatment
• Navigating Professional Boundaries
• Treatment Planning
• Therapeutic Techniques
• Relapse Prevention Strategies
• Crisis Intervention
• Active Listening Skills