Addictions are more than simply having a strong desire for something. They change an individual’s behaviour so that they must satisfy their addiction. This is why the term ‘dependence’ is often used. Research using brain imaging has demonstrated that addictions alter brain structure and function. It’s perhaps not surprising then that many people find it so difficult to overcome their addictions.
Addictions can cause immense unhappiness for those who have them, whether through personal experience or because friends or family suffer from them. This short course is designed to appeal to anyone who works with people who have problems with addictive behaviours from drugs and alcohol through to shopaholics. Many types of addiction are covered and the process of addiction is explained both behaviourally and physiologically. A variety of counselling methods and techniques are also reviewed so that students should be able to develop different solutions to help those whose lives are affected.
How does it work?
At the end of each lesson, you will be given a short interactive test to undertake, which will provide an indication of how your learning is progressing. Upon completing the very last lesson, you will be offered a more thorough automated test or examination. This final assessment can be undertaken at any time of day or night; and any day of the week; and if you achieve an overall pass (60% or more); you will be able to obtain a “certificate of completion” with your name and completion date on it.
Note: these short courses are self-guided online courses and are not to be confused with tutor-supported online courses.
There are 9 Lessons in this course:
1. Drug and Addiction Counselling
2. Types of Addiction
3. Addiction and Comorbidity
4. Alcohol Use and Dependence
5. Counselling and the Individual with Alcohol-related Problems
6. Substance abuse and Dependence
7. Counselling the Individual with Substance-related problems
8. Counselling for Addictive Behaviours
9. The Healthcare Team Support Networks and Specific Groups