Fundamentals of Substance Use Disorders for Mental Health Professionals

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How to Take This Course:

• 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
• 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
• 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 75% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
• You don't need to pay for an exam until AFTER you pass it. If you have any questions or need more information, please click here.

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CE Course Description

Substance use disorders (SUDs) remain a widespread challenge that often intersect with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma. Mental health professionals regularly engage with clients who are impacted by substance abuse, making a foundational knowledge of addiction essential to their effective care. This introductory course explores the basics of substance abuse disorders, risk factors, recognition of signs and symptoms, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Culture competence and ethical considerations are also addressed to support inclusive, stigma-reducing care. This course will equip mental health professionals with the foundational knowledge to identify substance use disorders, engage in brief interventions, and connect clients to appropriate care resources.

Author: Alisha Powell, PhD, LCSW

CE Course Objectives

1. Define substance use disorders (SUDs), including their prevalence, key characteristics, and impact on individuals and communities.
2. Identify common risk factors and co-occurring mental health conditions associated with substance use.
3. Apply basic screening tools and assessment strategies to recognize signs of substance use and determine when referral is appropriate.
4. Describe evidence-based treatment approaches, including brief interventions, harm reduction strategies, and referral pathways.
5. Analyze ethical and cultural considerations in the care of individuals with substance use disorders, including strategies to reduce stigma and support diverse populations.

Course Date: 2025-07-14

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