Co-occurring Disorders: Foundations, Neurobiological Perspectives, and Integrated Support
Overview
Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (CODs) are highly prevalent, requiring a nuanced, integrated approach that honors the resilience of individuals across the continuum of community-based care. This foundational training is designed to equip multidisciplinary practitioners with a robust understanding of the etiology, neurobiology, and clinical presentation of CODs through a recovery-oriented lens. The training emphasizes the importance of identifying substance use patterns and prevalence rates specific to marginalized populations, ensuring that interventions are tailored to unique cultural and systemic contexts. By prioritizing strengths-based language and the DSM-5 diagnostic framework, this training session prepares providers to partner with clients at the intersection of mental health and addiction within diverse settings. Ultimately, the training addresses systemic challenges and barriers to care while providing practical strategies to foster client agency and holistic wellness.
Learning objectives
- Analyze the prevalence and complexities of co-occurring disorders (CODs), with a specific focus on prevalence patterns and unique clinical considerations within marginalized populations
- Describe neurobiological aspects of COD etiology and how providing psychoeducation on this topic can help individuals de-stigmatize their experiences and enhance their capacity for self-advocacy
- Utilize the DSM-5 diagnostic framework as a tool for collaborative treatment planning and developing a clear understanding of a client's unique needs
- Assess rates and patterns of substance use to identify opportunities for applying harm reduction strategies and tailored, strengths-based interventions
- Demonstrate proficiency in person-centered language use to empower clients
- Articulate structural barriers to integrated care as well as strategies that can facilitate holistic support for individuals on their recovery journey
