Clinical Approaches for Working with Families Impacted by Substance Use Disorders (0.5 CEUs)

30-minute workshop (0.5 CEUs for Social Workers and Addiction Counselors)

Abstract

This workshop advances the clinical strategies of participants working with families or individuals who are seeking assistance with family related substance use concerns, by offering specific ways to approach the family with compassion, understanding and concrete tools/strategies to increase the family member’s efficacy, strength and resources. It serves as an opportunity to gain skills, techniques and interventions to effectively intervene with families and individuals who are impacted by substance use disorders. This training will provide an in-depth view of substance use disorders, using family systems theory as well as hands on experiences, and professional dialogue to explore the challenges of working with families impacted by substance use. This workshop is appropriate for all levels of clinical practice.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will learn a family systems approach to treating addiction and the consequences of substance use disorders in the family system, as well as the separate impact of addiction on individual family members. 
2. Participants will be able to identify 3 ways substance use related factors contribute to family disconnection, division and discord and affect family cohesion. 
3. Participants will learn current best clinical practices and recovery strategies, including effective treatment modalities, and MAT options to effectively assist and support family members who are struggling with addiction in their family system. 
4. Participants will be able to discuss 3 strategies and resources to help family members re-direct their approach to their family member’s substance use, such as how to: Set realistic boundaries while retaining connection with loved one Unite efforts to support their loved one, and manage partner differences regarding “what to do” Focus on the solution, not the problem Recognize possible secondary gains that may be impacting their lives Regain personal control and strength in their own lives Use the power of family stories to regain resiliency Evaluate and engage with supportive resources and support groups

Participants will participate in interactive opportunities to practice techniques discussed, to enhance their skills, and will practice therapeutic strategies to use in working with clients. Participants will be able to demonstrate 3 interventions to help families approach their loves one that at are effective, and 3 that are not effective.   Participants also will learn the referral process, and evaluating resources and programs to assist struggling families.   It will serve to expand and strengthen their confidence to work effectively with these complex issues.