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George Patriki

Hi, thank you for your interest in our Self Paced 12 hour S.A.M.H.I. Advanced Dual Diagnosis Training (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Interventions), which is the next level after our 2 hour S.A.M.H.I. Chemically Speaking Two (Brief Intervention) training program.

This training is also tax deductible as a work related expense and enables people to maintain professional development and upskilling.

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Hi, thank you for your interest in our Self Paced 12 hour S.A.M.H.I. Advanced Dual Diagnosis Training (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Interventions), which is the next level after our 2 hour S.A.M.H.I. Chemically Speaking Two (Brief Intervention) training program.

This training is also tax deductible as a work related expense and enables people to maintain professional development and upskilling.

If people want a certificate of attendance and also qualify for 12 points of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) for their professional peak body ( If people obtain the promotional rate from Udemy, then they receive a certificate from Udemy at the completion of this course.

If your peak body requires a certificate from the Optimal Health Group instead, participants need to pay the normal fee of $195 from the link on our website (dualdiagnosistraining . com . au);

If you need a certificate from Optimal Health Group, please contact us on [email protected] to enrol and pay the difference between the promotional rate and the normal $195.

This advanced training covers all of the current evidence based, best practice in the Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD) and Mental Health from an integrated, holistic framework. 

In June 2018, S.A.M.H.I. launched its 6 module, 12 hour course on Dual Diagnosis Training (www.samhi.online). This training will equip workers to be able to deliver brief & early interventions to people struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues, as well as advanced psychotherapeutic skills. This is the same as the comprehensive 2 day advanced training that is being delivered live across Australia and explained on our Dual Diagnosis Training Australian website;

The reason why S.A.M.H.I Dual Diagnosis Training has gone online is to expand the coverage of the highly acclaimed, comprehensive 2 day advanced Dual Diagnosis Training designed and presented by George Patriki. George and many of his staff will be still conducting live training under the banner of Dual Diagnosis Training in conjunction with the online adapted S.A.M.H.I course. We have very specifically and deliberately made this course very affordable at $195. This is half price. Join with us to address the alarming substance abuse and the co-morbid mental health issues that are rising in our communities across Australia and overseas.

Module 1. Drugs & Effects

  • Cycle of Addiction

  • Alcohol

  • Drink & Drug Driving

  • Tobacco

  • Cannabis

  • Stimulants (Speed, Ice, Ecstasy, Cocaine)

  • Inhalants (volatile substances)

Module 2. Addictions & Mental Health

  • Dual Diagnosis

  • Integrative Holistic Model

  • Needs & Underlying Issues that drive addictions

Module 3. Harm Minimisation & Optimal Health

  • Pharmacotherapies

  • Orthomolecular Science, Functional Medicine & Optimal Health

Module 4. Neuropharmacology & Neurophysiology (Brain Works)

  • Neuroplasticity

  • Neurotransmitters

  • Psychosis vs Dissociation

  • Psychospirituality

Module 5. Trauma model & Keys to Treatment

  • Guilt vs Shame

  • Dealing with ambivalence

Module 6. Brief & Early Intervention and Tripod of Support

  • Stages of Change

  • Costs vs Benefits – doing a brief intervention

This course is Self Paced and will also help people to run family support groups and receive updated skills in evidence base best practice from an integrative holistic approach.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Develop the skills to deliver brief and early interventions to people struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. this is part of our wider community development response to ice & other drugs. contents: module 1. drugs & effects  cycle of addiction  alcohol  drink & drug driving  tobacco  cannabis  stimulants (speed, ice, ecstasy, cocaine)  inhalants (volatile substances) module 2. addictions & mental health  dual diagnosis  integrative holistic model  needs & underlying issues that drive addictions module 3. harm minimisation & optimal health  pharmacotherapies  orthomolecular science, functional medicine & optimal health module 4. neuropharmacology & neurophysiology (brain works)  neuroplasticity  neurotransmitters  psychosis vs dissociation  psychospirituality module 5. trauma model & keys to treatment  guilt vs shame  dealing with ambivalence module 6. brief & early intervention and tripod of support  stages of change  costs vs benefits – doing a brief intervention this course will also help people to run family support groups and receive updated skills in evidence base best practice from an integrative holistic approach.
  • Understand cycle of addiction
  • Understand harm associated with alcohol, tobacco, cannabis & stimulants (speed, ice, ecstasy, cocaine), inhalants (volatile substances), drink & drug driving
  • Understand substance abuse & mental health (dual diagnosis)
  • Understand integrative holistic model
  • Understand needs & underlying issues that drive addictions including grief cycle & anger
  • Understand pharmacotherapies
  • Understand orthomolecular science, functional medicine & optimal health
  • Understand neuroplasticity
  • Understand neurotransmitters
  • Understand psychosis vs dissociation
  • Understand existentialism and psychospirituality
  • Understand trauma model & keys to treatment; guilt vs shame; dealing with ambivalence
  • Understand brief & early intervention
  • Understand stages of change
  • Understand costs vs benefits – doing a brief intervention
  • Understand tripod of support for the drug user to help them move forward & stay safe.
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

This Promotional video provides an overview of the Dual Diagnosis Training

This promotional video introduces the vision of the S.A.M.H.I. Dual Diagnosis Training

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Equips workers with skills to deliver brief and early interventions for substance abuse and mental health, enhancing their ability to support vulnerable individuals
Explores the cycle of addiction, harm reduction strategies, and the neurobiology of trauma, offering a comprehensive understanding of addiction and mental health
Integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic framework, potentially offering a more comprehensive approach to addressing dual diagnosis
Requires learners to pay an additional fee to obtain a certificate from the Optimal Health Group, which may be necessary for certain professional bodies
Covers pharmacotherapies, orthomolecular science, and functional medicine, which may require learners to do additional research to fully understand these topics
Focuses on content relevant to the Australian context, which may limit its applicability to other regions without additional research and adaptation

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive dual diagnosis training for professionals

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive and integrative approach to understanding addiction and mental health (dual diagnosis). Students highlight the depth of coverage across various topics, from the cycle of addiction and specific substances to neuropharmacology, trauma, and intervention strategies. Many found the content highly relevant and practical for their professional work in the AOD and mental health fields. The course is seen as a strong foundation, though some aspects might require further exploration depending on individual needs. The format is self-paced, making it accessible for busy professionals seeking professional development and upskilling.
Some topics might require further study.
"While comprehensive, some areas felt like introductions that would benefit from more in-depth follow-up resources."
"Depending on your prior knowledge, you might need to supplement some modules with additional reading or training."
"The course provides a great overview, but practitioners specializing in specific areas might want more advanced content."
Flexible format suitable for professionals.
"The self-paced nature of the course made it easy to fit into my busy schedule as a working professional."
"Being able to complete the modules at my own speed was a significant advantage."
"I appreciated the flexibility to revisit sections as needed to deepen my understanding."
Instructor is knowledgeable and engaging.
"George Patriki is clearly an expert in the field; his insights were invaluable."
"The lectures were engaging and delivered by someone with deep practical knowledge."
"I found the instructor's explanations clear and easy to follow, drawing from extensive experience."
Presents a holistic, integrated framework.
"I really valued the integrated, holistic framework presented. It helps connect addiction and mental health issues more effectively."
"The course does an excellent job of explaining dual diagnosis from a combined perspective, which is crucial."
"Understanding the integrative model helped me see the bigger picture and how different aspects of a person's life are connected."
Content is highly applicable to professional work.
"I can immediately apply the strategies and knowledge gained in this course to my practice with clients experiencing dual diagnosis."
"The information on brief interventions and the Tripod of Support is particularly useful in my daily work."
"This training equipped me with practical skills and a better framework for working with co-occurring disorders."
"The course content is highly relevant for anyone working in substance abuse or mental health services."
Covers a wide range of topics in detail.
"This course is very comprehensive. It covered many areas of addiction and mental health that were new to me, even as an experienced professional."
"The content provided a very in-depth look at dual diagnosis from multiple angles, including neuropharmacology and trauma."
"I appreciated the breadth of topics covered, from specific substances to the neurological basis and intervention models."
"The course material is thorough and well-structured, providing a solid understanding of complex issues in dual diagnosis."

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 & Mental Health (Dual Diagnosis) Integrative 12hrs with these activities:
Review Basic Concepts of Mental Health
Solidify your understanding of fundamental mental health concepts before diving into dual diagnosis.
Browse courses on Psychological Well-being
Show steps
  • Review introductory materials on mental health.
  • Take a practice quiz on mental health terminology.
  • Summarize key concepts in your own words.
Review 'In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction'
Gain a deeper understanding of the root causes of addiction and trauma's role.
View Scattered Minds on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts'.
  • Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and insights.
  • Reflect on how the book's perspective aligns with the course material.
Create a Presentation on the Cycle of Addiction
Reinforce your understanding of the cycle of addiction by creating a presentation.
Show steps
  • Research the cycle of addiction in detail.
  • Create a visually appealing presentation.
  • Practice delivering the presentation.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in Peer Practice Sessions
Practice intervention techniques with peers to build confidence and refine skills.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with other students.
  • Role-play different intervention scenarios.
  • Provide and receive constructive feedback.
Review 'The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma'
Deepen your understanding of the neurobiology of trauma and its impact on addiction.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Body Keeps the Score'.
  • Read the book, focusing on the sections related to trauma and the brain.
  • Reflect on how the book's insights can inform your practice.
Volunteer at a Local Addiction Recovery Center
Gain practical experience and observe real-world applications of dual diagnosis treatment.
Show steps
  • Identify a local addiction recovery center.
  • Contact the center and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Complete the necessary training and background checks.
  • Volunteer your time and observe the work of professionals.
Develop a Resource Guide for Dual Diagnosis Clients
Create a practical resource guide to help clients navigate the complexities of dual diagnosis.
Show steps
  • Research local resources for addiction and mental health.
  • Compile a list of relevant organizations and services.
  • Organize the information in a user-friendly format.
  • Share the guide with local organizations.

Career center

Learners who complete Addiction & Mental Health (Dual Diagnosis) Integrative 12hrs will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Addiction Specialist
An Addiction Specialist is involved in the treatment and care of individuals with substance use disorders, often working in specialized clinics or rehabilitation centers. This course is highly relevant to the profession, as it provides advanced training in dual diagnosis, substance abuse interventions, and trauma-informed approaches. An addiction specialist will benefit from the modules discussing the cycle of addiction, the neurobiology of addiction, and effective strategies for early intervention and harm reduction. The integrative model presented in this course helps an addiction specialist to understand the underlying needs driving addiction and thus deliver more effective treatments.
Substance Abuse Counselor
A Substance Abuse Counselor works with individuals struggling with addiction, providing support, guidance, and evidence-based interventions. This course directly addresses core competencies for this role, such as understanding the cycle of addiction, the effects of various substances, and the principles of harm reduction, all of which are covered in depth. The course emphasizes dual diagnosis, integrating mental health and substance use treatment, which is essential when working with clients who experience co-occurring disorders. The training provided here will also help a Substance Abuse Counselor develop skills in brief intervention, trauma-informed care, and motivational strategies, enabling them to effectively support clients through the stages of change.
Behavioral Health Technician
Behavioral Health Technicians work under the supervision of clinicians, providing direct support to individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues. This course directly relates to the duties of a Behavioral Health Technician, as it provides in-depth training on the cycle of addiction, the impacts of various substances, and techniques for early intervention. The modules on harm reduction, neuropharmacology and trauma, along with understanding ambivalence and guilt, will equip the professional with the necessary information to provide informed care. The course’s emphasis on evidence-based practices also builds a foundation for ongoing development in this field.
Psychiatric Technician
A Psychiatric Technician works directly with patients who have mental health conditions, frequently including those with substance abuse issues. This course examines dual diagnosis and the foundations of brief intervention, both of which are highly relevant to the work of a psychiatric technician. The content that covers the neurobiology of addiction, trauma, and the cycle of addiction may help the professional provide better care to patients. Also, the information on pharmacotherapies and stages of change can offer insights into the treatment process. Through this training, a psychiatric technician will be better equipped to support patients in their recovery.
Case Manager
A Case Manager connects clients with the services and resources they need, often working with individuals who have complex needs that may include mental health and substance use issues. This course provides an understanding of dual diagnosis and a foundation in evidence based best practices, which are crucial for effective case management. The course emphasizes the importance of an integrative, holistic approach. This is useful for case managers who need to provide care coordination that addresses both mental health and addiction needs. Learning about the stages of change and brief intervention techniques will help the case manager support their clients in engaging with treatment and maintaining recovery.
Family Support Specialist
A Family Support Specialist provides education, resources, and support to families affected by addiction and mental health issues. This course provides valuable insights into dual diagnosis and the effects of substance use and may help the professional in this role. The modules on guilt, shame, and ambivalence, along with modules covering trauma, help a family support specialist assist families in navigating the challenges associated with addiction. This training may also be beneficial in helping a support specialist facilitate family support groups, as this course emphasizes the importance of an integrative holistic approach to care.
Residential Counselor
Residential Counselors work in group homes and residential treatment facilities, providing supervision and support to individuals recovering from substance abuse or mental health issues. The course will help a residential counselor by offering relevant material on dual diagnosis and the foundations of evidence based best practices. The coverage of various substances, the cycle of addiction, and the neurobiology of addiction provide knowledge useful to this role. The module on brief intervention and the tripod of support provides a useful framework that allows residential counselors to better assist residents of their facility.
Community Health Worker
Community Health Workers serve as a bridge between communities and healthcare, often focusing on prevention and outreach. The course provides a comprehensive overview of substance abuse and mental health issues, which is essential for this type of work. A community health worker can greatly benefit from the training on the cycle of addiction, dual diagnosis, and the principles of harm reduction. The course also helps the professional to understand the underlying needs that drive addiction and mental health challenges, allowing the professional to develop and share more effective prevention and early intervention strategies suitable for their work in the community.
Health Educator
A Health Educator develops and implements programs to promote wellness and prevent disease, often focusing on substance abuse and mental health topics. The course gives health educators insights into the complexities of dual diagnosis and evidence-based best practices, which can inform their work. The modules on the cycle of addiction, the effects of various substances, and harm reduction strategies, may prove useful for the health educator. The course also emphasizes understanding the needs and issues that underlie these challenges, allowing health educators to design more effective prevention and intervention programs for the communities they serve.
Social Worker
A Social Worker provides support and advocacy for individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges, including substance abuse and mental health issues. This course provides a thorough understanding of the complexities of dual diagnosis and evidence-based best practices, which may help a social worker in their work. The training emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, while also addressing trauma-informed care and the neurobiology of addiction. Modules that describe brief interventions and the stages of change will help social workers develop practical strategies for supporting clients and connecting them with appropriate services.
Mental Health Counselor
Mental Health Counselors provide therapeutic support to individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including those related to substance use. The course may be useful for a mental health counselor because it tackles the complexities of dual diagnosis, offering an integrative approach to understanding addiction and mental health. The in-depth exploration of neuropharmacology, trauma, and evidence-based interventions, along with tools that discuss guilt, shame, and ambivalence, build a solid understanding of the underlying issues that drive addiction and mental health challenges. A mental health counselor can use the knowledge gained from this training to better address the needs of clients suffering from co-occurring disorders.
Outreach Coordinator
An Outreach Coordinator works to connect people with services, often in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. This course, with its in-depth look at dual diagnosis, trauma, and the cycle of addiction, may be useful for this role. The content on harm reduction and early intervention strategies may help the Outreach Coordinator in working to develop programs and connect communities with resources. By understanding the underlying issues that drive addiction, an outreach coordinator can identify and address gaps in services and create a more effective support network.
Employee Assistance Program Counselor
An Employee Assistance Program Counselor provides confidential support and resources to employees dealing with a variety of issues, including substance abuse and mental health challenges. This course's focus on dual diagnosis, evidence-based interventions, and trauma-informed approaches may prove useful for the professional. The content on the cycle of addiction, harm reduction, and brief interventions may help an Employee Assistance Program Counselor provide the most effective support by addressing the diverse needs of employees. The course’s integrative and holistic model of care can aid in fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
Rehabilitation Counselor
A Rehabilitation Counselor helps individuals with disabilities, including those with addiction and mental health conditions, to achieve their personal and vocational goals, and this course may prove useful in this endeavor. The course's focus on dual diagnosis and integrative models may help one who works in the field of rehabilitation. Understanding the neurobiology of addiction, trauma models, and evidence-based interventions will help the counselor to develop effective rehabilitation plans that address both mental health and addiction. This training will help the professional address the needs of their clients with an up-to-date framework.
Youth Counselor
Youth Counselors work with adolescents and teens, providing therapeutic support and guidance on issues such as substance abuse and mental health. A youth counselor may find this course helpful because it tackles the complexities of dual diagnosis. It provides an integrative approach to understanding addiction and mental health challenges, in addition to covering the neurobiology of trauma. By learning about the cycle of addiction, the effects of various drugs, and effective intervention strategies, a youth counselor will be better equipped to address the unique challenges faced by youth dealing with addiction and mental health concerns.

Reading list

We've selected two 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 & Mental Health (Dual Diagnosis) Integrative 12hrs.
Provides a compassionate and insightful look into the roots of addiction, linking it to trauma and social factors. It offers a perspective that aligns with the course's integrative and holistic approach to dual diagnosis. Reading this book will help students develop a deeper understanding of the underlying issues driving addiction, enhancing their ability to provide effective interventions. It is highly recommended as additional reading to expand on the course's core concepts.
Explores the impact of trauma on the brain and body, and various methods for healing. Given the course's focus on trauma and its connection to addiction, this book provides valuable insights into the neurobiological effects of trauma. It offers a deeper understanding of the trauma model and keys to treatment discussed in Module 5. This book is highly recommended as additional reading to enhance understanding of trauma-informed care.

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