ADCS 104

Abnormal Psychology / Intro to Alcohol and Other Drugs

50 HoursCertificate Program
DSM-5 & ASAM CriteriaCo-Occurring DisordersTrauma-Informed CareCultural Competency

Course Overview

This 50-hour module explores the historical context, cultural impacts, and progression of substance use in the United States. Students examine specific populations, co-occurring mental health disorders, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the DSM-5 and ASAM criteria used in clinical assessment. The course bridges the gap between abnormal psychology and addiction treatment, preparing counselors to work effectively with clients who present complex, dual-diagnosis conditions.

What You'll Learn

Cultural and lifestyle considerations: norms and differences across special populations (ethnic minorities, women, youth, elderly, LGBTQ, physically disabled)
The nature and extent of alcoholism and drug dependency among target populations
DSM-5 overview: diagnostic criteria for substance use and mental health disorders
ASAM Criteria: levels of care and patient placement
Human behavior: theories of personality and human development
Emotional states: dependency, resentment, guilt; theories of human needs and motivation
Denial process, stages of change (Prochaska & DiClemente), and the Johari Window
Family dynamics: recognition of family roles, modalities of treatment, and communication issues
Treatment and recovery approaches: psychiatric, psychosocial, and clinical modalities
Co-occurring disorders: integrated treatment for dual diagnosis clients
Self-help groups: Alcoholics Anonymous, NA, and other support systems
The relationship among trauma, substance use disorders, and psychiatric disorders
Symptoms of behavioral addictions and emerging treatment approaches
Program planning, client education, service delivery, and treatment limitations

Part of the Full Certificate Program

This module is included in the full 635-hour SUD Counseling Studies certificate program. It is not available for individual purchase. Enroll in the complete program to access all modules and prepare for your IC&RC certification exam.

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