Affirmative Addictions, Treatment Sensitization, and Skills Workshop

Catalog description

This workshop will sensitize students to the multicultural, diversity, and clinical issues involved in approaching substance abuse treatment from an affirmative perspective. It will explore the intersection of two forms of addiction that are highly prevalent in LGBT communities substance use disorders and sexual compulsivity. Broadly, this workshop will discuss and explore diagnostic criteria, prevalence rates, biopsychosocial co-factors, developmental theories, sexual health and risk factors, and LGBT affirmative approaches to treatment. Students will be challenged to critically evaluate hetero-normative biases inherent across cultures and how such biases impact the assessment and treatment of substance use and sexual addictions. Attention will also be given to co-morbid psychological conditions common among dual-diagnosed clients. While the first day will focus on relevant clinical issues and theory, the second day will focus on clinical application and skill building. The workshop is meant to create a basic foundation of knowledge and skill essential to providing affirmative addictions treatment.