OVERVIEW

Addressing Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Substance Abuse Treatment is organized by CEmobile, LLC.

Course Credit(s): 8 CE Credits or Hours

Course Description:
Research consistently shows a high prevalence of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts among persons with substance abuse problems who are in treatment. This course is designed to assist substance abuse counselors in working with adult clients who may be suicidal, and will help clinical supervisors and administrators support the work of substance abuse counselors. Part I, for counselors, provides the "what" and the "why" and the "how" of working with clients in substance abuse treatment with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It covers background information about suicide and substance use disorders, including risk factors and warning signs for suicide and a four-step process for addressing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Part 2, for administrators, clarifies why program administrators should be concerned about this clinical issue.

The recommendations contained in this course are grounded in evidence that a particular practice will produce a specific clinical outcome (measurable change in client status). In making recommendations, the course engages in a process of “evidence-based thinking” in which they consider scientific research, clinical practice theory, practice principles and practice guidelines, as well as their own individual clinical experiences.

Learning Objectives:
• Describe recommendations for addressing suicidal thoughts and behaviors, along with points to keep the counselor on track and positive attitudes and behaviors that will help the counselor provide services to clients who are suicidal
• Discuss background information about suicide and substance use disorders, including risk factors and warning signs for suicide
• Explain a four-step process for addressing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in substance abuse treatment, summarized by the acronym GATE (Gather information, Access supervision, Take responsible action, and Extend the action)
• Analyze representative vignettes of counseling sessions with clients who have suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Critique master clinician notes and comments that help the counselor understand the client, his or her issues related to suicide, and approaches the counselor can take in counseling work with clients with suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Analyze the benefits of addressing suicidality in substance abuse treatment programs
• Describe the role of administrators and mid-level staff in providing care for clients with suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Analyze legal and ethical issues for consideration in managing and providing treatment to clients with suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Note:- This course does not expire.