Clinical Interventions in Substance Use Disorders

This course is an introduction to substance use issues, the spectrum of substance use, associated diagnostic criteria (DSM-5), and major evidence-supported methods for treatment. Through the use of readings, lecture, class discussion, experiential learning, class assignments, and a full-day workshop on motivational interviewing, participants will become familiar with best practices in the core counselor functions of screening, assessment, treatment planning, community intervention, and counseling. While the primary focus of this course is on verbal interventions, participants will also become familiar with the pharmacology of non-medical substances, medications approved for Medication-Assisted Treatment, and opiate overdose prevention strategies. Special attention will be given to the framework of Trauma-Informed Care, techniques to engage/retain individuals in treatment, brief interventions that can be applied to a variety of settings, individual and group counseling approaches, and relapse prevention/response. This course provides an overview of the particular treatment needs of underserved populations, including LGBTQIA identified individuals, older adults, individuals with co-occurring mental illness, and women.