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CHEMICAL ADDICTION: THEORIES AND PRACTICES (CHS-253186)

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Course Description:


This course will enable students to identify and explain theories of addiction, the limitations of these theories, and current clinical criteria for defining substance use disorders. This course will examine substance use disorders from a clinical and personal perspective. It will consider the dynamics of change and challenge conventional wisdom and stereotypical thinking. Drug classifications and impact on brain chemistry will be reviewed. Further, students will gain basic knowledge of psychopharmacology, tools for screening and assessment, counseling techniques, and treatment medications. Students will learn basic concepts about recovery and relapse, mutual recovery groups, harm reduction, and the effects of substance use disorders on families. The course will briefly explore the effects of substance use disorders on people with co-occurring mental health disorders, HIV/hepatitis B/C, and specific populations such as adolescents, women, and older adults. Students will also explore and reflect upon their beliefs, preconceptions, and attitudes about people with substance use disorders throughout the course.

This course will enable the student to conceptualize, explain and apply knowledge to variety of issues specific to substance user disorders, addiction, screening, assessment, treatment, and recovery. One required assignment involves direct visitation to and observation of a 12 step/mutual help group. Note: This course is also offered at CDL in a 4 credit format, as CHS-253184. Students may only take either CHS-253184 or CHS-253186, not both.

Course Prerequisites - Students must have a foundational understanding of human and/or health services.



This online course is offered through Online Learning. You can take this as an individual course or as part of an online degree program, with term starts in March, May, September, November and January. View current term offerings and all online courses. Click here to register for online courses.

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Liberal Study
Upper Level
Credits: 6
Term(s) Offered (Subject to Change) : Spring 1. Spring 2.

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