NASW-CA EmpowerEd Program

Course Description

This course reviews the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on individuals addicted to alcohol and other drugs, as well as the institutional and community-based systems of care they typically access. The course explores the inherent resiliencies and vulnerabilities of addicted people, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of systems of care that have been exposed by the pandemic. Various adaptations in addiction treatment approaches, resources, and systems in response to the public health crisis will be presented and reviewed, including emerging best practices. To complete the course, readers access online content that incorporates short web-based videos and case vignettes before passing the online posttest with a score of 80% or better to print a certificate of completion.

Target Audience

This course is for practitioners, program managers, and administrators who want to adapt and improve their approach to treating individuals with substance addictions within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. This course is especially relevant for those whose clients either have a diagnosed substance use disorder (SUD) or who simply use substances to cope with mental illness symptoms or stress and may be at risk of developing a SUD.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, readers will be able to do the following:

• Describe the impact of COVID-19 on individuals addicted to alcohol and other drugs, as well as addiction treatment programs.
• Identify ways that addiction treatment approaches, resources, and systems have adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Describe key elements of telehealth and how to successfully implement telehealth services.
• Identify legislative and policy changes that have facilitated telehealth and other addiction treatment services during COVID-19.
• Describe key considerations for maintaining and resuming in-person addiction treatment services during COVID-19.