Counseling Chemical Dependency Adolescents

ACS 535

Instructor: Dr. George Gonzalez, Ph.D.

SYLLABUS

COURSE OVERVIEW: By the time high school students have used an illicit drug at least once in their lifetimes. Many other substances, such as aerosol sprays and glues, are even easier for adolescents to obtain and use. Therapists need to be aware of the warning signs of an adolescent substance use disorder and the relationship between mental disorders and addiction in order to properly diagnose and treat these young individuals. The purpose of this course is to provide clinicians with knowledge of the issues related to the risks associated with substance use and addiction in adolescents. Topics include the abuse of active agent chemicals, affecting neural growth and development; the emerging body of evidence suggesting a relationship between chemicals abuse and psychotic disorders, a trend that has evolved in adolescent substance abusers in the past decade.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

Provides comprehensive coverage and the latest information on a full spectrum of substance use disorders and the compounds commonly abused.

Identify the major types of substance use disorders in adolescents.

Describe factors that may contribute to the incidence of a substance use disorder.

Describe the impact of substance use on adolescent sleep patterns.

List treatment options for an adolescent substance use disorder