In this program, participants will gain a better understanding of substance use treatment in outpatient settings. This program will cover assessment of substance use disorders and discuss when and how to refer clients to a higher level of care. Additionally, participants will learn how to differentiate normal experimentation, particularly among adolescents, with risky misuse and abuse. This program will address readiness for change, and how to navigate working with clients who are the beginning stages of the stages of change model yet are seeking help. This program will discuss the relevant literature on attachment and substance use, the impact of relationships and relational factors on substance use, and the role of protective parts according to Internal Family Systems. The program will introduce and explore how Relational Cultural Theory (RCT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can serve as a theoretical lens to support these clients and conceptualize substance use. Participants will learn specific knowledge and skills to help them work through attachment issues, overcome relational ruptures and disconnection, and heal burdened parts. This program will include opportunities for questions and answer, case conceptualization, and a brief role play (if time allows) based on the needs of participants. The program will conclude with a discussion on additional resources for substance use treatment, including information on harm reduction approaches and medication assisted treatment.

At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the history of substance use theories, treatment, and clinical approaches to treating substance use.
• Learn how to assess client need, risk, and appropriately treatment plan using the ASAM Criteria, and understand the differences between normal experimentation and misuse and abuse.
• Identify how attachment, relationships, and burdened parts play a significant role in substance use.
• Develop new skills to work with substance use using RCT and IFS
• Understand the basics of harm-reduction and medication assisted treatment and know where to refer clients to these services in their communities.