This course provides an introduction to the physical, psychological, social, familial and legal aspects of chemical abuse. The chemistry, sychopharmacology, theories and stages of addiction will be introduced and explored. Relevant history, problems of special populations of addicted clients and contributions of 12 Step Programs will be reviewed. Assessment and treatment planning theory and skills building are integral to the cause.

Prerequisite: none.

This course identifies the uniqueness of chemical dependency counseling by examining concepts, issues and skills required to provide basic group therapy for chemically dependent persons. Group norms, goals, content, process, stages of group growth, group curative factors, group principles and issues/problems of group dynamics are explored. Traditional theoretical models, such as Adlerian, Existential, Person-Centered, Behavioral, REBT and various perspectives will be explored relative to chemical dependency group counseling.

Prerequisite: ASA-110, PSY-217 as either prerequisite or corequisite.

This course builds on concepts from ASA 210. Ethical standards and practices will be discussed relative to chemical dependecy counseling. Contemporary approaches to group counseling theories such as, Relative/Choice Therapy, Rational Recovery Model, Motivational Interviewing, Short-Term Solution Focused Therapy and Holistic Perspectives in Chemical Dependency Counseling will be explored. Some of the holistic issues will include alternative and complimentary medicine and the mind-body-spirit connection relative to relapse prevention and overall health and wellness.

Prerequisite: ASA 110, PSY 217 as prerequisite or corequisite.

This course is designed to analyze the effects of chemical abuse on the family. Emphasis will be placed on family roles, dynamics, characteristics of children of chemical abusers, theories of co-dependence, adult children of such families and adaptations made individually and socially by family members. Critical issues and strategies in family treatment will be explored.

Prerequisite: ASA-110.

This course is designed to provide an overview of topics of special interest and relevance to the field of addiction. Topics may change from semester to semester; researching and learning about new/special topics is encouraged. The course will also regularly examine the special problems and issues of selected client groups in treatment and recovery, e.g. HIV/AIDS children/adolescents, women, the elderly, gay and lesbian, dually diagnosed, relapse and cross cultural issues.

Prerequisites: ASA-110, 210 and 220 or permission of Instructor.

Two semesters of practicum, under supervision, in a chemical dependency treatment facility is required to expose the student to the work of such facilities and to sensitize the student to the prevention, clinical, and documentation work and skills of the profession. The student enters the field work as an intern and is subject to all legal, ethical, and professional standards required of staff members. Placement may be in rehabilitation programs, detox units, prisons, hospitals, public school prevention programs/education programs, crisis centers, clinics or other recognized facilities designated for the education, prevention, or treatment of chemically dependent persons. A primary goal of the internship(s) is to evaluate the student under actual working conditions to ascertain readiness for clinical work in the field.

Prerequisite for ASA 310: ASA 110, 210, 220

Prerequisite for ASA 320: ASA 110, 210, 220, 310

This 5 week module will cover the content required for the Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) credentialing process. The focus will be on the chemically dependent population and the ethical considerations related to the treatment environment. The student will gain knowledge of the Canon of Ethical Principles. In addition to the Canon, topics will include: counselors in recovery, counselor relapse, countertransference, confidentiality and the law, sexual harassment, client-counselor relationships, and ethics in the workplace.

Prerequisite: None.

This 5 week module will expose students to the application of principles of chemical dependency theory and practice to the HIV/AIDS population. The unique needs of this client group require special consideration in adapting treatment. Focus will also include tuberculosis and federal law pertaining to HIV/AIDS information and confidentiality issues.

Prerequisite: ASA 110, 210, 220, 230 or Permission of Instructor.

This 5 week module will address basic pharmacology, e.g., bioavailability, dosage, synergism, classification of substances, and schedules. In particular, medications (particularly prescription medications) which are commonly abused and have potential for dependence, will be addressed.

Prerequisite: None.