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Ellen Edens, Shannon Drew, Jeanette M. Tetrault, Mary Lindsay Powell, Robert Heimer, Elizabeth Roessler, and Robert Krause

This course is designed with a singular goal: to improve the care you provide to your patients with substance use disorders. By delving into a model case performed by actors, seven Yale instructors from various fields provide techniques to screen your patients for substance use disorder risk, diagnose patients to gauge the severity of their use, directly manage treatment plans, refer out to treatment services, and navigate the various conditions that may limit your patient’s access to treatment. You will ultimately be prepared to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to a large population of patients living with addiction— a chronic, often relapsing-remitting disease, but a treatable one.

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This course is designed with a singular goal: to improve the care you provide to your patients with substance use disorders. By delving into a model case performed by actors, seven Yale instructors from various fields provide techniques to screen your patients for substance use disorder risk, diagnose patients to gauge the severity of their use, directly manage treatment plans, refer out to treatment services, and navigate the various conditions that may limit your patient’s access to treatment. You will ultimately be prepared to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to a large population of patients living with addiction— a chronic, often relapsing-remitting disease, but a treatable one.

This course is supported in part by SAMHSA of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of financial assistance awards from grant #1H79FG000023 totaling $249,900 and grant #3H79TI081968-02S1 from SAMHSA totaling $1,354,651 with 100 percent funded by SAMHSA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by SAMHSA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Note: The content in this course is intended solely to inform and educate medical professionals. This site shall not be used for medical advice and is not a substitute for the advice or treatment of a qualified medical professional.

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What's inside

Syllabus

“How can I show compassion toward patients with substance use disorders?”
“How do I know if my patient has a substance use disorder?”
"How do I recommend treatment options?”
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“What medications help patients manage their substance use disorders?”
“What psychosocial or behavioral therapies are available for patients with substance use disorders?”
"What societal factors impact successful recovery?”

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches techniques to screen patients for substance use disorder risk, diagnose patients to gauge the severity of their use, directly manage treatment plans, refer out to treatment services, and navigate the various conditions that may limit your patient’s access to treatment
Covers psychosocial or behavioral therapies available for patients with substance use disorders
Covers medications that help patients manage their substance use disorders
Provides compassionate and evidence-based care to a large population of patients living with addiction
Provides techniques to show compassion toward patients with substance use disorders
Addresses societal factors that impact successful recovery

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Reviews summary

Clinical addiction treatment knowledge and skills

This course offers learners an in-depth understanding of addiction treatment. According to students, it enhances their skills in screening, diagnosis, and treating individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs). The course features contributions from Yale University experts with diverse backgrounds, providing a comprehensive perspective on addiction. Learners value the interdisciplinary approach and the evidence-based practices emphasized throughout the course.
The course presents up-to-date, research-supported methods for treating SUDs. Students appreciate the focus on current treatment options and harm reduction strategies.
"Excellent course, presentations were relevant and interesting."
"Provides a wealth of clinically important material presented in a concise and engaging manner."
"This course is very helpful for my career as a future psychologist! Well-done Yale team!"
The course strongly advocates for compassionate and stigma-free approaches to addiction treatment. Students appreciate the emphasis on understanding the underlying causes of addiction and treating individuals with dignity and respect.
"I really enjoyed the course a lot. I found the course materials clearly structured, informative and easy to understand. Humanistic approach to patients is very appealing."
"The course was amazing ! I learn information that other courses do not emphasize on, this course is loaded with valuable information."
"For the amount of time this course advertises itself as, it stays honest to them amazing skills and knowledge it says to offer."
Learners highly regard the expertise and experience of the instructors. The faculty includes medical doctors, psychologists, and social workers, providing diverse perspectives on addiction treatment.
"Exceptional course - very many thanks for the thoroughness and the obvious competence of the instructors"
"Excellent! very good lessons, quizes very appropiatethe most exeting course i have met and i have done alotmy felicitations for the whole team"
"This course was informative and covered a variety of essential topics regarding Substance Use."
While the course provides theoretical knowledge and evidence-based practices, some learners express a desire for more real-life examples and case studies to enhance their understanding of addiction treatment in practical settings.
"It took me 20+ hours to complete this course.The main information could have been imparted in 3-4 hours. There were lots of redundancies."
"The main information could have been imparted in 3-4 hours. There were lots of redundancies."
"I wish it could give some weightage to the course mentioning that a volunteer can be qualified to be a non-medic counselor or a medical counselor's assistant to work in any rehab or addiction treatment facility."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Addiction Treatment: Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers with these activities:
Review Substance Use Disorders 101
Get a brief overview of causes, types, and general treatment for Substance Use Disorders to refresh your knowledge and prepare for this course.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Read the following article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5890119/
  • Watch these videos for a more comprehensive overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mP72sQ_dLHg and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF-XA_f82LY
  • Take notes on the main points
Explore the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website
Exploring the SAMHSA website will provide access to valuable resources and information related to substance use disorders.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Visit the SAMHSA website
  • Explore the different sections of the website, such as resources for professionals, patients, and families
  • Identify specific resources that you can use in your practice
Review DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorders
Reviewing the DSM-5 criteria will provide a solid foundation for understanding the diagnosis and severity of substance use disorders.
Show steps
  • Familiarize yourself with the general structure of the DSM-5
  • Specifically review the criteria for substance use disorders
  • Pay attention to the different levels of severity
  • Consider how these criteria might apply to patients you encounter in your practice
11 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 14 activities
Review key concepts of substance use disorders
Brushing up on key concepts will help you better follow the material throughout the course.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Review the DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorders.
  • Read recent articles on the neurobiology of addiction.
  • Attend a CME event on substance use disorders.
Attend a SUD Support Group Meeting
Attend a support group to witness firsthand the struggles and successes of individuals with substance use disorders; gain insights that can enrich your understanding and empathy.
Browse courses on Community Involvement
Show steps
  • Find a support group meeting in your area
  • Attend the meeting and listen to the experiences shared
  • Reflect on the meeting and consider how the insights gained can enhance your patient care
Practice screening patients for substance use disorders
Regular practice will enhance your ability to identify patients with substance use disorders.
Browse courses on Audit
Show steps
  • Use the CAGE questionnaire to screen patients.
  • Administer the AUDIT to patients at risk.
  • Review case studies of patients with substance use disorders.
Substance Use Disorder Diagnosis Practice
Practice diagnosing substance use disorders by reviewing real-life case studies and applying the concepts and techniques learned in the course.
Show steps
  • Access the case studies provided by the course or seek them from reputable medical resources
  • Review the patient's history, symptoms, and other relevant information
  • Apply the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders to determine the appropriate diagnosis
  • Document your findings and rationale for each diagnosis
Practice using the CAGE questionnaire
Practicing the CAGE questionnaire will enhance your ability to effectively screen patients for substance use disorders.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Learn the four questions that make up the CAGE questionnaire
  • Practice administering the questionnaire to simulated patients
  • Interpret the results of the questionnaire and make appropriate referrals
Treatment Plan Template
Create a comprehensive template for treatment plans that can be customized to individual patient needs, enhancing your ability to effectively manage substance use disorders.
Show steps
  • Review the course materials on treatment planning for substance use disorders
  • Research best practices and consult with experts in the field
  • Design your template, including sections for patient assessment, treatment goals, interventions, and monitoring
  • Test your template with sample patient cases to ensure its effectiveness
Learn about the different treatment options for substance use disorders
Learning about different treatment options will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your patients.
Show steps
  • Review the SAMHSA website on treatment options for substance use disorders.
  • Watch videos on different types of behavioral therapy.
  • Attend a webinar on medication-assisted treatment.
Organize and Review Course Materials
Organize and review all the materials from this course to reinforce your understanding, prepare for assessments, and improve retention.
Show steps
  • Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and other materials
  • Review your notes and identify areas that need further clarification
  • Summarize key concepts and create study aids such as flashcards or mind maps
Discuss case studies with colleagues
Discussing case studies with colleagues will allow you to learn from the experiences of others and enhance your understanding of substance use disorders.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Identify a case study that you are interested in discussing
  • Prepare a summary of the case study
  • Facilitate a discussion with your colleagues
  • Reflect on the discussion and identify key learning points
Develop a treatment plan for a patient with a substance use disorder
Creating a treatment plan will allow you to synthesize your knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive care to patients with substance use disorders.
Show steps
  • Gather information about the patient's substance use history, medical history, and social history
  • Set goals for treatment with the patient
  • Develop a plan that includes evidence-based interventions
  • Monitor the patient's progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed
Volunteer at a local substance use disorder treatment center
Volunteering at a treatment center will provide you with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of working with patients with substance use disorders.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Identify a local substance use disorder treatment center
  • Inquire about volunteer opportunities
  • Complete any necessary training or orientation
  • Participate in volunteer activities, such as peer support, group facilitation, or administrative tasks

Career center

Learners who complete Addiction Treatment: Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Behavioral Health Social Worker
Behavioral Health Social Workers guide individuals and families towards recovery from substance use disorders. They provide counseling, case management, and other support services, often working in mental health facilities, social service agencies, or schools. This course provides an excellent foundation for this role by offering practical strategies for screening and diagnosing substance use disorders, developing treatment plans, and working with various therapies. Particularly valuable is the focus on societal and personal factors that can impact recovery, allowing Social Workers to better assist clients with the challenges they face.
Addiction Counselor
As an Addiction Counselor, you will use principles from the field of behavioral health to help people overcome addiction. Addiction Counselors must be able to use compassion to understand the struggles of their clients and develop a treatment plan that will be effective for them. This course is especially relevant to this field as it provides tools to counsel patients struggling with substance use disorders. It provides insights into how to diagnose these conditions and recommend effective treatment options, equipping counselors with strategies that lead to improved patient outcomes. The course also emphasizes the importance of societal factors that can impact recovery, empowering counselors to help their clients overcome barriers they may face.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders, including substance use disorders. This course provides a strong foundation for this role by offering advanced clinical skills specifically tailored to individuals with substance use disorders. The focus on direct management of treatment plans and navigation of conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Psychologists with the knowledge and strategies to effectively guide their clients towards recovery and long-term well-being.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselors provide counseling and support to individuals with substance use disorders, helping them overcome addiction and improve their mental health. This course offers essential knowledge and skills for this role, including techniques for screening and diagnosing substance use disorders, developing personalized treatment plans, and navigating the complexities of addiction. The emphasis on compassion and evidence-based care will empower counselors to effectively support their clients on their journey towards recovery.
Case Manager
Case Managers play a critical role in supporting individuals with substance use disorders, working closely with them to develop and implement treatment plans. This course offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals with substance use disorders and provides guidance on how to navigate societal factors that can impact recovery. The knowledge gained from this course can significantly enhance a Case Manager's ability to provide holistic and effective support to their clients throughout their recovery journey.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help individuals with substance use disorders regain functional skills and improve their overall well-being. This course provides a valuable foundation for this role by offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with substance use disorders and the societal factors that impact recovery. The focus on practical strategies for managing treatment plans and navigating conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Occupational Therapists with the tools they need to effectively support their clients in rebuilding their lives and achieving optimal functioning.
Medical Doctor (Psychiatrist)
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders. This course offers valuable insights into the clinical management of substance use disorders, providing a strong foundation for Psychiatrists to develop effective treatment plans and prescribe appropriate medications. The emphasis on psychosocial and behavioral therapies will equip Psychiatrists with a comprehensive approach to patient care, enhancing their ability to support individuals in their recovery process.
Nurse Practitioner (Psychiatric/Mental Health)
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners provide a wide range of mental health services, including the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. This course offers a solid foundation for this role by providing advanced clinical skills specifically tailored to individuals with substance use disorders. The focus on direct management of treatment plans and navigation of conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Nurse Practitioners with the knowledge and strategies to effectively guide their clients towards recovery and improved mental health outcomes.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselors provide counseling and support to individuals with substance use disorders, helping them overcome addiction and improve their mental health. This course offers a solid foundation for this role by providing advanced clinical skills specifically tailored to individuals with substance use disorders. The focus on direct management of treatment plans and navigation of conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Counselors with the knowledge and strategies to effectively guide their clients towards recovery and improved mental health outcomes.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors help individuals with substance use disorders regain functional skills and improve their overall well-being. This course provides a valuable foundation for this role by offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with substance use disorders and the societal factors that impact recovery. The focus on practical strategies for managing treatment plans and navigating conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors with the tools they need to effectively support their clients in rebuilding their lives and achieving optimal functioning.
Social Worker
Social Workers provide a range of services to individuals with substance use disorders, including counseling, case management, and advocacy. This course offers a valuable foundation for this role by providing a comprehensive understanding of substance use disorders and the social factors that contribute to them. The focus on practical strategies for managing treatment plans and navigating conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Social Workers with the tools they need to effectively support their clients in rebuilding their lives and achieving optimal functioning.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants provide a wide range of healthcare services, including the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. This course offers a solid foundation for this role by providing a comprehensive understanding of substance use disorders and the clinical skills needed to effectively manage them. The emphasis on direct management of treatment plans and navigation of conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Physician Assistants with the knowledge and strategies to provide high-quality care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
Registered Nurse (Addiction)
Addiction Nurses provide specialized care to individuals with substance use disorders, working in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. This course offers a valuable foundation for this role by providing a comprehensive understanding of substance use disorders and the nursing interventions used to treat them. The focus on direct management of treatment plans and navigation of conditions that may limit treatment access will equip Addiction Nurses with the knowledge and skills to provide holistic care and support to individuals on their recovery journey.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists play a crucial role in the treatment of substance use disorders, dispensing medications and providing guidance on their use. This course offers a valuable foundation for this role by providing a deep understanding of the medications used to manage substance use disorders and the conditions that may limit their effectiveness. The emphasis on psychosocial and behavioral therapies will equip Pharmacists with a comprehensive approach to patient care, allowing them to provide holistic support to individuals on their recovery journey.
Therapist
Therapists provide counseling and support to individuals with substance use disorders, helping them overcome addiction and improve their mental health. This course offers essential knowledge and skills for this role, including techniques for screening and diagnosing substance use disorders, developing personalized treatment plans, and navigating the complexities of addiction. The emphasis on compassion and evidence-based care will empower Therapists to effectively support their clients on their journey towards recovery.

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Addiction Treatment: Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers.
Provides the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders, as well as guidelines for treatment planning and relapse prevention. It valuable resource for clinicians who work with patients with substance use disorders.
Is the official guide to the Twelve Steps program of Alcoholics Anonymous. It valuable resource for people who are in recovery from addiction.
Personal account of addiction from the perspective of a physician who has worked with people with substance use disorders for many years. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of addiction.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the science of addiction, including neurobiology, genetics, and treatment. It valuable resource for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers.
Explores the connection between trauma and addiction. It valuable resource for clinicians who work with patients who have experienced trauma.
Explores the connection between stress and addiction. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the underlying causes of addiction.

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