Substance Abuse Counseling Assistant

Classes

AR 101: Introduction to Addictive Behavior

This course examines three major theories that explain the cause of substance abuse: the biological, psychological, and sociological. The course also explores substance abuse within the context of family systems, the use of motivational interviewing and other forms of intervention, the stages of change, and issues related to recovery and relapse.

AR 120: Laws and Ethics of Counseling

This course gives students the basis for formulating ethical decisions within the broad limits of professional codes and diverse theoretical positions in order to further the best interests of their clients. Introduces students to the current statutes and regulations that govern the professional practice of substance abuse counseling.

AR 130: Counseling Diverse Populations

Counseling Diverse Populations examines counseling philosophies and modalities in the therapy relationship within the context of clients’ varying cultural backgrounds. These variations include differences in personal and psychological characteristics, environment, and socioeconomic status. Students will learn how counseling theories and techniques are applied to culturally different individuals and groups and identify sources of potential misunderstanding. We will examine communication and how culture affects mental health attitudes and help-seeking in various groups.

AR 201: Individual Counseling and Theories

This course focuses on the major theories and techniques of substance abuse counseling. Emphasis will be on strategies related to assisting clients in accepting the diagnosis of substance abuse and the early stages of recovery. Attention is given to the role of the counselor as part of the total spectrum of human services.

AR 210: Introduction to Family Systems

This course examines family systems theory and techniques related to working with substance abuse clients and their families. Students apply these theories using case studies.

AR 231: Trauma and Addiction

This course offers students activities, assignments, and simulated experiences covering the fundamentals of substance abuse counseling. Emphasis on effective communication, assessing strengths and needs, and service planning.

AR 240: Community Mental Health and Case Management

This course provides an introduction to community mental health within the framework of mental health and addiction services. Current legislation, trends, and issues impacting mental health services are examined.

This course explores the 12 Core Functions related to the assessment and management of client progress while in chemical dependency treatments. Students learn about skills related to screening, intake, orientation, treatment planning, and case management. The course also examines the importance of cultural competence and the use of effective communication skills.

AR 250: Abnormal Behavior

This course surveys a variety of psychological disorders ranging from anxiety to post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse. Approaches to treating the disorders are also covered with emphasis on the psychotherapies and associated behavioral techniques.

SA 130 *: Case Management

This course explores the 12 Core Functions related to the assessment and management of client progress while in chemical dependency treatments. Students learn about skills related to screening, intake, orientation, treatment planning, and case management. The course also examines the importance of cultural competence and the use of effective communication skills.

SA 230: Human Development and Addiction

Examines addiction, substance use and abuse from the adolescent point of view. Includes assessment and treatment planning appropriate to this population and considers ethical and legal ramifications.