Managing Depressive Symptoms in Substance Abuse Clients During Early Recovery (6 RCH/CEU)

This course is designed to assist those professionals who are working with substance abuse clients who are experiencing depressive symptoms. These symptoms are common among clients in substance abuse treatment. Some studies indicate that as many as 98% of those presenting for substance abuse treatment have some symptoms of depression. Even when these symptoms do not reach the level of formal DSM-V diagnosis, they represent a serious impediment to effective treatment and an increased risk of relapse if not addressed. Topics covered include: the nature of depressive symptoms, how depressive symptoms affect treatment efforts, range of clients who may experience depressive symptoms, approaches that may prove effective with this population, special setting specific considerations, and the roles and responsibilities of the substance abuse professional in relation to clients with depressive symptoms. Author: William L. Mock, Ph.D., LISW, LICDC, SAP