Addictions Counseling Concentration

Designed for beginning and intermediate clinicians, this course provides a thorough foundation in substance abuse treatment. The prevention and treatment of substance abuse in people of all ages will be explored, as well as the relationship between substance use, violence, and physical and sexual abuse. Topics include: theories of etiology of addiction; pharmacology of psycho-active drugs; cultural factors that influence substance use; assessment and intervention with substance abusers and their families. Emphasis is put on diagnosis, treatment planning and referral to appropriate resources including self-help groups. Students will have the opportunity to participate in simulated interviews and experiential exercises. Includes the fundamental occupational tasks of assessment, case presentation, case collaboration, team membership and client interaction. This course addresses the following Massachusetts State Standards for School Adjustment Counselor/School Social Worker: c: Learning disorders, including emotional issues affecting student achievement, and their treatment. f: Techniques for communicating and working with families and school and community personnel. g: Knowledge of the criminal justice system with particular reference to the juvenile justice system and organizations. i: Federal and state regulations addressing the legal rights of students and families. This course addresses the following Massachusetts State Standard for School Counseling: f: Knowledge of strategies used for the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and violence in PreK-12 students.

The use of medications in the treatment of alcohol and drug dependence and their co-occurring disorders has historically been controversial. Newer medications with less potential for addiction are increasingly being used, including agonist and antagonist drugs designed to have a direct impact on the neurochemistry of addiction. Finding the balance between treating dependence and co-occurring depression, anxiety, trauma and other disorders poses a special challenge, and it appears that addressing these issues concurrently shows the most success. This course will review current clinical models of intervention and differential diagnosis. A brief review of relevant neuroanatomy and neurophysiology will set the stage for an examination of major psychotropic medications, including antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers and anti-anxiety medications, as well as newer medications for addictions treatment. This course will be grounded in clinical material and frequent presentation of case material. Requirements will minimally include one topical presentation. Responsibility will be shared for presenting material throughout the class. Includes the fundamental occupational tasks of assessment, case presentation, case collaboration, team membership and client interaction.