Details for SSC337 Working with Addictions

Understanding addictions is pivotal for effective intervention. This unit equips students with knowledge of the dynamics and development of various addictions, from substance abuse to behavioural dependencies. Through examining causes, characteristics, and management strategies, students will learn to identify effective treatment approaches and community resources. They will also explore ethical considerations and develop self-care strategies to maintain their wellbeing in professional counselling settings.

Quick Stats

• Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
• Course code: SSC337
• Credit points: 10

Subject Coordinator

Prerequisite

Pre-req: SSC113

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Examine a range of theories that explain addiction and evaluate the cause, development and effects of different types of addiction;
2. Examine the complex effects of various substance-related disorders at personal, family and community levels and identify appropriate counselling or treatment approaches to help clients and their families with substance-related disorders;
3. Identify appropriate community resource and/or facilities and professionals that you could work with or refer to as a professional counsellor;
4. Identify the ethical and legal issues involved in addictions counselling and develop a self-care plan suitable for a professional working in this area of specialisation.

Subject Content

• A sociological perspective on addiction/s
• Aetiology of addiction
• Types of addictions including: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, love/sex
• Outlining the components of a holistic approach with clients and those affected by addictions
• Epidemiology of substance use & abuse
• Developmental perspectives of substance abuse & addictions
• Assessment, evaluation and referral processes
• Treatment of addictions
• Ethical issues in counselling addictions
• Preventive interventions

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Onsite (face-to-face)
• Online (eLearning)
• Intensives
• Extensives

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

• Exam (25%)
• Case Study Analysis with Session Planning (50%)
• Paper and Presentation (25%)

Prescribed Text

• Mack, A.H., Brady, K.T., Miller, S.I., & Frances, R.J. (2016). Clinical Textbook of Addictive Behaviours (4th ed.). NY: Guildford Press.
• West, R., & Brown, J. (2013). Theory of Addiction (2nd ed.). Chichester, UK: Wiley Blackwell.

Please consult your instructor prior to purchasing any textbooks.