PCN501 All Weeks Discussions Latest 2018 June

week 1 discussion

-This week, you studied various theories of addiction and learned about the human body’s reaction to substances. With all the scientific knowledge we now have about addiction, why is there more than one etiology of addiction? Why is it important to have a multidisciplinary approach when addressing addiction? Provide an explanation in your response.

-In preparation for this week’s assignment, review substance use disorders and process addictions. How do process addictions differ from substance use disorders? What are three ways in which the treatment approach will vary from process addiction to substance use disorders?

week 2 discussion

-Explain the importance of a substance use disorder counselor having an understanding of tolerance and withdrawal. What potential issues could arise if the counselor did not have this knowledge? Provide at least one example in your response. Additionally, discuss how a substance use disorder could mimic and/or co-occur with a variety of neurological, medical, and psychological disorders as discussed in the Differential Diagnoses sections of the Substance Use Disorders chapter in the DSM.

-In many states, marijuana is now legal for certain medical purposes. Identify some clinical issues that may now present themselves because of this. What if you have a client who is addicted to alcohol and narcotics, who is also using marijuana to help with chronic pain? How might you address this situation? Discuss the importance of applying crisis management skills.

week 3 discussion

Why is it important to integrate coordinated treatments for co-occurring disorders? Provide at least two examples of the potential financial challenges associated with managing the implementation of treatment.

-What are the different types of psychoeducation and psychotherapeutic clinical group therapies often used in treatment of substance use disorders? How would the prescreening process for referrals look different for each? If you determined a client needed a referral for an alternative treatment, how would you describe the referral process and complementary treatment alternatives?

week 4 discussion

-Support groups are separate from clinical therapy groups. Why is it important for substance use disorders counselors to know what happens in non-clinical support groups? How could this knowledge benefit treatment?

-Why is it important to develop an empathetic relationship with a client with a substance use disorder? How would you challenge behaviors and thoughts that are not recovery promoting and how would you provide information to them relating to substance use disorder and treatment?

week 5 discussion

- Describe the importance of having family involved in the treatment process for substance use disorders. How can you involve family in the treatment and recovery process? Include at least two inclusive strategies in your response.

- According to ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine), what are the different levels of care for the treatment of substance use disorders? Provide at least one example of a consideration in each level regarding working with individuals with disabilities.

week 6 discussion

-As you know, social justice and advocacy are important aspects of counseling. As such, groups exist that are dedicated to advocating for specific cultural groups. Research and choose one of these advocacy groups that you connect with. What is the name of the group and what issue(s) are they advocating? How can you become involved with the group and why do you think it would be important to get involved? In the case of substance use prevention, how would you raise awareness for the need for substance use programs, what type of education would be appropriate? What process does the advocacy group you researched use to address institutional and social barriers that impede access, equity, and success for clients?

-Select two to three different cultural populations. What strategies would you use to address prevention, treatment programs, and positive change (staying abstinent) for each of the selected populations? What factors would contribute to these groups being at risk for increased drug or alcohol problems?

week 7 discussion

-What are some of the medical and sexual health issues which may have to be addressed in treatment? How would you go about helping the client to address them?

-How would you help promote an HIV/AIDS client’s knowledge and skills of positive health and recovery? How would you assist the client in maintaining those skills? What would be some high-risk behaviors that would not promote positive health and recovery?

week 8 discussion

-Assume you are working at an agency with both inpatient and outpatient services. Mary is a client of yours in inpatient, so you will be working with her one-on-one at least once a week in inpatient treatment then she will transfer levels (from level III to Level II.I) at which point you will also be her counselor in intensive outpatient. Using your knowledge of CBT (review Chapter 8), how could you integrate some CBT interventions that target triggers into both inpatient and outpatient treatment. Her diagnoses include Alcohol Use Disorder, Opiate Use Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Use headings: Inpatient CBT interventions, Outpatient CBT interventions.

-How do coping strategies help clients prevent relapse? Present at least two examples of coping strategies and explain how they may benefit the client, their family, and the community in which they live and work.