Introduction to Addictions Counselling

This course will introduce the lay counsellor to the latest theories of addiction counselling and the Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders. Mention will be made of the addiction-treatment industry and a new paradigm for understanding addictions will be suggested. From an integrative bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective, lay counsellors will develop sufficient knowledge concerning the etiology of addiction to come alongside and support individuals struggling with addiction, and to know when to make referrals to professional counsellors. Wellness strategies for supporting personal growth and development, will be explored. Attention will be given to co-dependency, especially as it pertains to adult children and spouses of addicts, and to the awareness of preventing caregiver burn-out. By the end of this course you should be able to:

• Describe the addictive process, specifically as it pertains to Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
• Identify the roles and responsibilities in addiction and recovery of the people involved: the addict, the ‘significant other’, and their friends and families
• Demonstrate an understanding of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual bases of addiction
• Reflect on the addiction-treatment industry from a sociocultural, political and phenomenological understanding of addiction
• Identify the stages of use and abuse, and understand applicable intervention techniques and treatment options
• Demonstrate understanding of the need for ongoing relapse-prevention and recovery training as a lifelong process
• Explain the concept of co-dependency especially as it pertains to adult children and spouses of addicts
• Minister to individuals and families effected by addiction from a Christian counselling perspective
• Practice good self-care and prevent caregiver burn-out

You will be required to purchase the following textbooks in order to complete all counselling courses:

• Collins, G. 2007. Christian Counseling - a Comprehensive Guide (Third Edition). Thomas Nelson.
• Meier, Minirth, Wichern & Ratcliff. 1999. Introduction to Psychology and Counseling: Christian Perspectives and Applications. 2nd Baker Books.
• Tan, S. & Scalise, E.T. 2016. Lay Counseling: Equipping Christians for a Helping Ministry (Revised and Updated).
• Tan, Siang-Yang, 2011. Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective. Baker Publishing