Upcoming Classes

This class is designed to provide the counselor with an understanding of the clinical record and the continuum of client care that the record documents and tracks. The class presents screening, basic assessment and evaluation, substance use disorder diagnostic criteria, ASAM patient placement criteria, introduction to treatment planning, progress note completion, documentation requirements and basic referral and discharge planning.

Addiction counselors work to improve people’s lives by identifying and treating the effects of substance abuse disorders. Addiction counselors may work with people from the public or they may specialize in specific populations, such as gender specific, persons involved in the criminal justice system, families, LGBTQIA, veterans and the opioid overuse epidemic. This course will provide a more in-depth overview of the diverse populations in the addiction treatment realm.

This course will explore a range of issues which can arise in counseling Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender clients, particularly regarding Domestic Violence interventions. Topics range from “identity and coming-out” through “homophobia and civil rights” to “life-partnerships and co-parenting.” The course will emphasize treatment planning and accessibility, and it will address rapidly growing terminologies and unique power and control dynamics as well as multiple assessment models, tools, and resources. Illustrative video excerpts will enhance the participant’s experience.

Client motivation and commitment to treatment begins with the assessment and diagnostic phase that typically occurs at intake. This course will consider the differences between screening and assessment and use of assessment instruments. The class will consider the components of the clinical assessment such as a biopsychosocial interview, assessing risk for self-harm, identifying cultural needs and supports, problem domains, determining stage of readiness for change and strengths of the client. Determining diagnosis utilizing the DSM 5 and resulting level of care for the client will be discussed using the ASAM Criteria. Stages of treatment and systems of care will be covered along with facets of treatment planning.

CBT is an evidenced-based treatment and is foundational to the addiction treatment field. Participants will learn the theoretical foundations of CBT and how to incorporate CBT skills in a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes intake, assessment, case conceptualization, treatment planning, and therapy. Counselors will learn and practice effective ways to utilize the tools specific to CBT with their clients.

This course will provide participants with a comprehensive introduction to ethical and risk management issues related to addiction treatment and services. Topics will include BHA licensing rules; BHA behavioral health rules and regulations; practice standards and guidelines; DORA and the Mental Health Practice Act; the purpose of and the need for written policies and procedures; professional competencies, boundaries and ethical relationships; reporting violations; employee drug testing; liability insurance; clinical versus administrative supervision; the ethical delivery of culturally responsive care and trauma-informed care; and the need for a professional self-care plan.

This three-hour introductory course is designed to equip learners with fundamental knowledge and skills to understand, support, and advocate for people with substance use disorder (SUD). It covers critical topics such as the addiction cycle, the neuroscience of addiction, and those impacted by SUD. The course emphasizes using person-first language and cultivating a non-judgmental and empathetic approach when interacting with people experiencing SUD. It explores recovery as a restorative approach and examines various approaches to holistic care. Additionally, the course familiarizes learners with the range of treatment and recovery resources available within communities, enabling them to make appropriate recommendations based on individual needs. 

Prerequisite Requirement:
Before attending the course, participants must watch the Words Matter pre-recorded presentation. A link to the training will be provided in your registration confirmation email.

Recommended Preparation:
We highly recommend completing our Trauma-Responsive Care course prior to this training, as it provides foundational concepts that will enhance your learning experience.

1. 
   Learning Objectives: 
   1. Describe the addiction cycle, the neuroscience of addiction, and those impacted by substance use
   disorder (SUD).
2. 2. Develop an empathetic approach that disrupts and reduces stigma when working with, and advocating, for patients who use substances.
3. 3. Identify strategies that support and empower patient autonomy.
4. 4. Develop a patient empowerment plan to better support patients with SUDs.
5.  

2.5 NCPD/CNE & CME hours are offered. 

If you are a Denver Health employee, please select "Pay by Check" during registration—our team will waive your fee. You may disregard any payment prompts.

If you are external to Denver Health and would like to discuss the course fee, please contact us at CAMAcademy@dhha.org.