This course provides students with the skills necessary to identify the addictive process, and to counsel clients in various stages of the process of change. The many forms of addictions will be examined, and the skills needed to assist clients will be demonstrated and practiced. The focus of the course is the development of a thorough understanding of the Stages of Change Model. The course will provide insight into the use and misuse of psychoactive drugs in the human body, including information on neurobiology and pharmacology. Students are asked to identify their own habits/addictions and to examine what effects they may have on their lives, keeping a journal of their personal experience of withdrawal. This course provides theory and practice in methods of counselling in the process of recovery and rehabilitation. Self-regulation Theory, reduction of enabling behaviour, and the appropriate/responsible use of intervention strategies will be examined.
Course Objectives
This course provides students intending to enter the helping professions with extensive knowledge of the theoretical frameworks and concepts related to all forms of addictions and substance misuse. Issues of compulsion, physical and psychological dependence, tolerance and basic pharmacology will be addressed. Students will learn to identify how addictions can control and diminish people’s lives, and how to work with client’s fears and resistant behaviour. Using the Prochaska and DiClemente model, students will gain a better understanding of the biopsychosocial elements of addiction, and the processes related to positive behavioural changes.
Before the end of this course, students will demonstrate the following:
- Knowledge of basic addiction concepts including physical and psychological dependence, tolerance and withdrawal
- Knowledge of the various theories of addiction as they relate to all forms of addiction
- Knowledge of basic pharmacology including sources of psychoactive drugs, drug classifications, drug effects on the central nervous system, methods of administration and drug interactions
- Signs and Symptoms – how to assess addictive behaviour – assessment tools and engaging clients in treatment planning
- An understanding of the theory and principles of the Prochaska and DiClemente model for Stages of Change
- An understanding of the underlying emotional/developmental issues which may create and maintain addictive/self-soothing destructive behaviour
Additional Information
Found in These Programs: Life Skills Counsellor Certificate, Life Coach Diploma, Addiction Counsellor Diploma, Wellness Counsellor Diploma, Professional Counsellor Diploma
Course Type: Daytime (FT)
Course Length: 2 weeks
Course Hours: 60
Prerequisites: COUN 100
Other Requirements: Enrollment in Life Skills Counsellor Certificate or any Diploma program.
