EDCO 6902: Substance Use and Addiction Counseling (2023-2024)

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This course is designed to provide the knowledge and skills to effectively facilitate both prevention and responsive interventions to addiction within the school and community contexts. Students will learn skills to counsel individuals diagnosed with substance abuse and dependency, provide preventative support for those at risk for substance abuse issues, and gain an awareness of the unique needs and challenges of individuals experiencing substance use and abuse and addiction. Theories of addiction counseling and application of these theories will comprise a significant part of this course, particularly with how they apply to work with individuals from a systems theory perspective. Co-occurring disorders, such as process addictions and mental illnesses will also be addressed. Students will develop conceptual knowledge, practical skills, and self-awareness concerning the etiology of addiction, assessment strategies (including the use of wraparound assessment and intervention services), wellness strategies for facilitating optimal development and preventing clinician burn-out, and diagnosis and treatment planning. This will be accomplished through assigned readings, seminar discussions, video recordings, lectures, case presentations, guest speakers, and didactic and experiential assignments.