Working with Addictions

This subject aims to equip students to understand the issues and dynamics surrounding the development of addictions and the focus of particular addictions. It will focus on a range of addictive behaviours. Students will examine the causes, characteristics, consequences and management associated with addictions.

Quick Info

Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
Course code: SSC337
Credit points: 10
Subject coordinator: Rebecca Loundar

Prerequisites

The following courses are prerequisites:

SSC113—Interpersonal Communication Skills

Awards offering Working with Addictions

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

Unit Content

Outcomes

Examine a range of theories that explain addiction and evaluate the cause, development and effects of different types of addiction;
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;
Identify appropriate community resource and/or facilities and professionals that you could work with or refer to as a professional counsellor;
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.