Advanced Topics in Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse

Topic Description:

Bringing evidence-based best practices and local and cultural knowledges together to prevent and reduce harms from substance use, the course uses the PC CARES model to build communities of practice and spark innovative action. PC CARES stands for Promoting Community Conversations About Research for Effective Solutions, and it includes 5 sessions focused on everyday actions people can do to prevent harmful substance use within their spheres of influence. Learning aims of the interactive community education model are to: (a) increase awareness about prevention strategies, harm reduction, care options and recovery supports; (b) prioritize community values, beliefs and perspectives; and (c) facilitate conversations aimed at adapting evidence-based strategies, initiatives and behavior change to local culture and context.

Through discussions and facilitated activities, participants will develop relationships and shared understandings – communities of practice – with others in the class to: (a) reduce stigma related to addiction, at risk substance use, and harm reduction; (b) gain skills and insights to initiate, support or expand prevention and safety for those who use substances, and (c) find ways to develop compassion and link people to care and recovery support.