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Description

Substance use disorder is a complex issue that can have a devastating impact on the clients you serve. As a social worker, you play a vital role in helping people with substance use disorders seek and receive the treatment they need. Effective treatment of those with substance use disorders requires a fundamental knowledge of the various substances that could be used by current or potential clients.

Awareness of chemical compounds is the first step in treating a population that uses drugs and alcohol in a destructive way. In this course, participants will begin their journey of developing an understanding of substance use disorders by being introduced to drug categories, the diagnosis of a substance use disorder, the actions of drugs, and the regulation and classification of illicit substances.

What You Will Learn

Upon successful completion of this micro-course, you will be able to:

Differentiate the terminology associated with the use of illicit substances
Explain the diagnosis of a substance use disorder
Identify the neurotransmitters that interact with illicit drugs
Identify the action of drugs

Eligibility

Must be 18 or older

Refund Policy

You will have 24 hours, or until you receive your completion certificate, to request a full refund after purchase, whichever comes first. No hidden fees. All books and materials are included with purchase.

Faculty Bio

Diane Rullo, PhD

Dr. Diane Rullo is a core faculty member in the Barbara Solomon School of Social Work at Walden University. She has been teaching graduate-level social workers for 27 years. Dr. Rullo has been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) for 42 years and has been in private practice since 1992. Dr. Rullo earned her MSW and PhD in Social Work from Fordham University. She also holds a master’s degree in counseling specializing in group work and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Montclair State University.

Curriculum

Illicit Substances

This section introduces illicit substances and their effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Learners will explore the major categories of substances, including their physiological effects on the body and brain. The section also examines the impact of stigma, terminology, and labeling within the substance use field and how language influences perceptions of individuals with substance use disorders. In addition, participants will review the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
Action of Drugs

This section examines the various methods of drug administration and how routes of use influence the onset, intensity, and duration of substance effects. Learners will explore the concept of drug safety margins and the risks associated with misuse and overdose, including the potential for fatal outcomes. The section also introduces common drug screening and testing methods used in clinical and professional settings. An in-depth review of the nervous system and the impact of substances on neurological functioning concludes the section.
Drug regulation and classifications

This section provides an overview of the history of drug regulation in the United States and the evolution of laws and policies related to substance use and control. Learners will examine the development of federal drug legislation and its influence on public health, healthcare practice, and society. The section also introduces the drug scheduling system used in the United States, including the classification of substances based on their medical use, potential for abuse, and risk of dependence.

Accreditation Statement

Walden University School of Lifelong Learning for the Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, provider # 1892, is approved as an ACE provider to oﬀer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the ﬁnal authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 9/9/2024-9/9/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2 continuing education credits.

Walden University’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation is responsible for developing standards that define competent preparation for professional social workers and ensuring that social work programs meet these standards.

Criteria for obtaining Continuing Education Hours

This professional development course offers content that includes overviews and descriptions, engagement activities, resources, and a final assessment that can be taken as many times as needed to pass. Within 180 days of the course purchase date, follow these steps to claim your hours:

Complete all course content,
Achieve 80% or higher for the final assessment,
Complete the end of course evaluation, and
Download and print or save your certificate.

ADA Accommodation Statement

If you need accommodations, please e-mail [email protected].

Features

Interactive and Engaging Content

Learn through visual, interactive, and scenario-based learning components.

Flexible Learning

Review professional development content at your own pace to accommodate your busy schedule.

Awards

Certificate for Continuing Education Hours

$25.00

How To Enroll?

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How to enroll?

1Add course to cart
2Create your account
3Register for course
4Make payment and submit application
5Start learning

-or-

Questions? Please contact [email protected]

Who is this for

Licensed Social Workers

Learners are responsible for consulting with the appropriate licensing, credentialing, or certifying authority; local school district; employer; or other organization to determine whether a course will be accepted by that organization. Walden does not guarantee acceptance by any third party for any specific purpose.

SWCE1003 - Introduction to Illicit Substances