This advanced course provides graduate counseling students with a comprehensive foundation in the assessment and theoretical frameworks essential for effective addictions counseling. Students will explore the intersection of substance use disorders and mental health via biopsychosocial assessments, standardized screening tools, and application of diagnostic criteria relevant to co-occurring disorders. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of evidence-based theories—including acceptance commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief therapy and other evidenced based approaches—to inform clinical decision-making and individualized treatment planning.
Focal areas include: Assessment Techniques, (training in the use of validated assessment instruments, diagnostic interviews, and risk evaluation for substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders), Theoretical Foundations (in-depth study of major counseling theories and their application to addiction treatment, including the role of developmental, cultural, and systemic factors), Mental Health Integration (examination of the relationship between addiction and mental health, with a focus on dual diagnosis, trauma-informed care, and ethical considerations, and Case Conceptualization (development of skills in synthesizing assessment data and theoretical knowledge to create holistic, client-centered intervention plans). Fee: Additional fee required.
Prerequisite Courses