Perspectives in Substance Use

Catalog description

This course is designed to provide students with the essentials for understanding various perspectives on substance use, substance use disorders and developing a fundamental understanding of the treatment models for these disorders, including harm reduction approaches. The content includes an overview of policies for the treatment of substance use, an examination of the epidemiology and basic pharmacology of substance use, advances in pharmacotherapy, theoretical frameworks, assessment and intervention methods. The content will be considered across numerous social groups including women, people of color, people with other mental health concerns, people in the LGBTQIA+ community, among others. The course emphasizes a diverse view of substance use and treatment, and is consistent with the bio-psycho-social-spiritual systems model of social work practice.