COOL 630 - Introduction to Addiction Counseling

Credit(s): 3 hours
Candidates in this course explore the fundamental concepts and issues necessary to gain an understanding of drug/alcohol counseling. Participants will be able to define chemical dependency and describe the various models of addiction. Criteria for Substance Abuse Disorders will be examined and applied to illustrative case studies. Participants will also be able to identify and discuss the unique clinical issues involved in treating the rising population. These include: denial and defenses, stages of recovery, relapse and relapse prevention counseling, shame and guilt, co-occurring disorders, effects on the family, intervention, and 12-Step groups. Modalities of treatment and treatment practices will also be discussed. The participants will gain an understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be an effective counselor. The participants will be introduced to a code of ethics for the professional and will be able to discuss its importance.
Five Field/Clinical Experience Hours required.
Prerequisite(s): None