Certificate In Substance Use Disorder Counseling

This course covers terminology, drug classification, physiological effects, psychological effects, withdrawal syndrome, drug interactions and treatment applications. All major categories of drugs are addressed: alcohol, depressants, cocaine and other stimulants, opiates, hallucinogens, cannabinoids, inhalants and other substances. The course also explores neurological commonalities of substance use disorders and the hypothesized role of neurotransmitters and endogenous chemicals as well as compulsive behaviors such as gambling, sexual behavior and shopping.

This course explores evaluation, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals with substance use disorders. Motivational interviewing will guide strategic interventions for a variety of modes and modalities in substance use disorder counseling. Evidence-based practices, such as harm reduction, will be studied. Social justice and advocacy are emphasized as well. The course will accentuate cultural competence among substance use disorder counselors so that they may learn how to broach cultural differences to effectively work with marginalized groups.

This course explores the connection between trauma and substance use disorders. Students will investigate the role of adversity as etiologically relevant to the treatment of substance use disorders. Substance use will be evaluated as a misguided solution from a trauma-informed care framework. The course will examine how repeated exposure to traumatic events affects development, interpersonal relationships, and neurological functioning. Specific counseling theories and techniques for the treatment of trauma and co-occurring conditions will be presented.

This course explores the theoretical underpinnings of family counseling theories as it relates to counseling families affected by substance use disorders. Topics include system theory, survival roles, transgenerational trauma, grief and loss, and adverse childhood experiences across the lifespan. Substance use disorder is recognized as a family disease requiring strategic interventions.