Addiction Counselling Short Course

Course Content

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  1: Introduction to addiction, discussion and reappraisal of counselling skills

This Unit begins by exploring a personal example of addiction and forming a brief description of what it is. It defines, summarises the basic use and function of counselling knowledge and skills. These include how theories and approaches of counselling have developed from the work of Freud, Rogers, Skinner, Ellis, Jung and Egan as well as others. Corresponding counselling approaches and the evolution of modern approaches from these theorists are also examined using self-reflection, self-evaluation activities and accepted counselling methodologies.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  2: The psychodynamic approach relevant addiction therapy

In this Unit , students will examine the psychodynamic approach to counselling which generally refers to the ‘psyche’ or ‘psycho’’ meaning ‘of the mind.’ Sine Freud’s time there is little to choose between psychotherapy and counselling so we combine them here as the psychodynamic approach. Learning how to identify and analyse counselling situations in which this approach may be suitable will be taught. Concepts such as defence mechanisms, transference and counter-transference will be explained. Students will gain knowledge of the relevance of the psychodynamic approach in the context of addiction therapy so they can be confident in using it in a client-counsellor situation.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  3: The cognitive behavioural approach relevant to addiction therapy

This Unit explores the popular cognitive behavioural approach, CBT and how it can be applied to the addiction counselling field. Conditioning and social cognitive theories will give an insight into the depth of behavioural change in this area of therapy and any limitations. Specific examples and activities will give indications as to which particular set of client circumstances benefits most from this approach. Understand cognitive techniques and their application and relevance to counselling so that components can be integrated with other approaches.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  4: The person-centred approach relevant to addiction therapy

Humanist psychology involves the belief that there is a role and place for human inspiration in improving mental well-being. This Unit examines the key concepts about the person-centred approach to counselling and the role of the counsellor e.g. as being empathetic, genuine and warm. The criticism of this is that the counsellor may be indulgent with their clients as a result. The key theories include and describe Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, specific techniques and their relevance and application to counselling. Areas of application where underlying problems and situations are present will be discussed.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  5: Client-counsellor relationships in addiction therapy

This Unit focuses predominantly on confidentiality, morals and ethics by addressing ethical strategy, boundaries or limitations. It will reinforce conduct through good practice by the recognition of active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard. The integration of approaches to suit client needs are described as group dynamics. There is a key aim of helping the client increases their self-awareness in order to facilitate a program of change. All communication is done under a safe environment where clients and their Rights e.g. to receive confidential care and be heard are protected.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  6: Understanding addiction: part 1

Addiction is often misused with, e.g. young people suggesting they are addicted to a celebrity, but may not be aware of the addiction to their mobile phone. Thus addiction is defined both in terms of pleasant and unpleasant activities. This module focuses on the physiological and psychological changes and effects of addiction. An understanding of reinforcement in addictive behaviour, and of the basic action of drugs and their effects will be shared. This includes knowledge of the central nervous system in relation to addiction, such as the impact of drugs and chemicals, e.g. Dopamine on the Brain.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  7: Understanding addiction: part 2

This Unit continues with the physiological and psychological themes such as depression and anxiety that have been already discussed. The categorisation and classification of commonly taken drugs are described. The common psychological disorders that relate to causes and effects of addiction in terms of substance abuse are covered. Models of counselling are explained in their context with addiction, the difficulties associated with dependence, withdrawal, craving and maintaining a drug-free life, e.g. through the support of relaxation techniques.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  8: Focusing on substance addiction

This Unit defines and categorizes the most commonly use drugs that exist in society today e.g. Cannabis and heroine, and the factors (age, gender, race, familial and socio-cultural background, peer-pressure and depression) that may contribute to substance misuse. In addition it will discuss the effects of these drugs on the person and how behaviours are changed as a result of becoming an addict. The specific and specialised counselling skills necessary for working within this field of therapy will be outlined and discussed. CBT has been recognised as being a valid treatment plan and its use in treating substance abuse will be explored in detail.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit  9: Focusing on alcohol addiction

This Unit examines the factors that contribute to alcohol abuse and the physiology behind alcohol addiction and the harm it can do to the human body. It explores the growing issue of alcohol usage, its effects on both the clients and those around them, including their families, colleagues and friends. Knowledge of specialised counselling skills, such as the use of the Cycle of Change and the 12-step approach are explored. Counselling can be hard and demanding, there may be failure so support for the client and counsellor is addressed as alcohol can have impact such as loss of family, homes and jobs, so the road to recovery is difficult.

Addiction Counselling Short Course Diploma Unit 10: Discussion on other addictions such as smoking, food and shopping

This Unit brings together the various aspect of this course by providing information about other more common addictions. An understanding of the factors that contribute to addictions that including smoking, shopping, gambling, food and sex will be addressed. Comparisons will be drawn through the use of statistics, published articles and facts between various addictive behaviours that have already been examined, and the complexity of some addictions will be addressed, including multiple addictions, or serious contributing and underlying problems. A confidence in drawing up appropriate counselling programmes that present in the therapeutic environment is developed by looking at real cases, assessment of causal effects and possible treatment plans.