Addictions Counseling

BSAP303 - Addictions Counseling

Credits: 3

This course introduces students to the 12 Core Functions of Counseling and provides specific skills training for assessment and counseling of persons struggling with addictions. Students are introduced to theories and empirically validated treatment approaches specifically developed for special populations, including those who are dually diagnosed, experiencing persistent pain, adolescent, or diagnosed with process addictions (e.g., gambling). Additional areas of focus include introduction to family dynamics in relation to addiction, intergenerational patterns of addiction, trauma theory and its relationship to addiction. Emphasis is placed on developing competency in intake and assessment interviewing, behavioral treatment planning, and development of basic understanding of psychopharmacology as it applies to addictions counseling. Ethics and multicultural issues are integrated throughout the course.