Familiarizes chemical dependency counselors with language and basic concepts of mental health disorders as they present in the dually diagnosed patient. Provides opportunity to assess and plan interventions for such patients involving introduction to motivational interviewing. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Course Outcomes
- Orientation and skill building for counseling clients who have co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. The information offered will support counselors in providing assessment, treatment, and referral services. It will prepare students to collaborate with mental health professionals. This course is offered for continuing professional education and is suggested for initial counselor certification. This course provides an overview of the field of addiction counseling and the impact of addiction on child, adolescent, and adult populations. The course will summarize key points drawn from the following areas: the American experience with addiction and recovery, theoretical explanations for understanding addiction and mental health, basic neuroscience, and assessment and treatment issues specific to counseling individuals with co-occurring disorders. Additional areas include prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies and relevant issues pertaining to social justice and diversity.