Addiction and Treatment: Strengths-Based Perspectives

This course is designed to provide a thorough understanding of the nature of addictions, as well as a review of evidence-based treatment for addiction-related disorders. Substance abuse and dependence will be examined from strengths-based, biopsychosocial, and developmental lenses. We will explore the role of drugs in the nervous system, the significance of social influences, and the psychological processes involved in the development of substance-related disorders across the lifespan. Students will gain familiarity with current evidence-based approaches for the treatment of substance-related disorders, including the Transtheoretical Model of Change and Motivational Interviewing. Historical perspectives, cultural views, and heath disparities regarding addiction will also be explored.

This class will meet synchronously for 1.5 hours and will include 2.5 hours of asynchronous instruction per week. Students should expect additional homework during the week.

This is one of four courses that comprise the Behavioral Health Support Specialist Certificate at Evergreen. This course can be taken at any point in the certificate.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

4 - Psychology: Addiction and Treatment