CSL6760
Addiction Counseling
The course presents a study of alcohol and drug addiction and other troublesome compulsive behavior. An introduction to the essential components of addiction is provided. In addition, the course will include an overview of the primary aspects of addiction including, the physical and psychological effects of drug abuse and chemical addiction, the elements of psychopharmacology, the assessment and diagnosis of substance abuse and chemical dependency, the treatment of addictive disorders, and topics focused on special populations. The course in addiction counseling will be very beneficial to students enrolled in the professional counseling degree program. It is essential for students at Amberton University to have knowledge and skills conducive to working with individuals and families that suffer from alcohol and substance use and abuse. This course is designed to prepare students to function as counselors for those who have alcohol, drug, gambling, sexual, and other harmful addictions.
UPON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE, THE STUDENT WILL BE COMPETENT IN:
- Defining addiction and tracing the history of the field.
- Identifying the major theories that attempt to explain addiction.
- Conducting alcohol and drug assessments using the SASSI, the ASI, the MAST, the DAST, and other assessment instruments.
- Examining and understanding the addiction and recovery process.
- Comprehending addiction etiology, assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Learning and understanding the biology and physiology of addiction.
- Understanding psychopharmacology as it relates to addictive behaviors.
- Comprehending the physiology and psychology of alcoholism and drug abuse.
- Assessing the relationship between the different types of addiction.
- Understanding the physiology and psychology of eating disorders.
- Synthesizing the effects of addiction, including sexual, gambling, smoking, chocolate, and other compulsive behaviors.
- Comparing and contrasting the various traditional approaches to the treatment of addiction.
- Demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the “Twelve Step Approach” in treating addictions.
- Evaluating and understanding the Social Learning and Cognitive approaches to treating addictive behaviors.
- Understanding “Relapse” and “Relapse Prevention” related to addiction.
- Examining and discussing the role of the family in treating addictions.
- Comprehending the concepts of tolerance, withdrawal, and the detoxification process.