In-person and online

The aim of this minor Award is to provide participants with a basis on which to develop their therapeutic understanding of the theoretical and clinical considerations of substance use. The objectives of the module include increasing knowledge of Substance Use issues to include pharmacology, aetiology, and interventions appropriate to this clinical cohort.

Substance use in Ireland is on an upward trajectory. According to the Health Research Board (2020), 7% of respondents have used an illegal drug in the past year, and one in five drinkers have an alcohol use disorder. Substance use in Ireland is on the rise and those who wish to work with clients in distress must understand the issue and be armed with interventions that are unique to treating it.

The core syllabus includes the following themes:

• Drug Classification and Pharmacology.
• Etiological understandings of addiction including behavioural and disease models;
• Societal and individual attitudes toward those impacted by substance use/addiction and the consequences of prejudicial and discriminatory values;
• Models of intervention:
  • Assessment of Substance Use;
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy w/substance using clients;
  • Community Reinforcement Approach w/substance using clients;
  • Motivational Interviewing w/substance using clients;
  • Abstinence Models w/substance using clients;
• Harm Reduction w/substance using clients;
• The Wheel of Change;
• Dual Disorders.

Those working in helping professions.

Applicants will hold a Level 8 Degree in the helping professions (counselling, psychotherapy, social care, social work, psychology, psych nursing, mental health, addiction etc.). Those who hold a Level 7 Degree in the helping professions, plus appropriate relevant work experience may be eligible to apply under RPL.

See the course website for further details https://www.iicp.ie/courses/certificate-in-clinical-work-with-substance-using-clients-studies/

See IICP website