Description

This course explores the neurobiology of addiction and its critical role in guiding effective, evidence-based treatment. Students will learn how brain changes underlie the development and persistence of substance use disorders, and how to apply this knowledge in crafting treatment plans.

The course also examines the intersections of trauma and addiction, highlighting how early adversity and stress rewire brain systems and influence recovery pathways. Ethical considerations in addiction treatment—such as autonomy, stigma, and the unique needs of specific populations (including adolescents, pregnant and parenting individuals, and people involved in the justice system)—will be woven throughout.

Central to the course is the recognition that addiction is a chronic, treatable disease. Emphasis will be placed on person-centered approaches that honor self-determination, public health strategies for safety, and patient dignity, while integrating the latest evidence-based practices to improve outcomes. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and applied case studies, students will gain a comprehensive, respectful, and scientifically grounded framework for supporting individuals with addiction.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this presentation, participants will:

• Gain an understanding of how brain changes underlie the development and persistence of substance use disorders and how to apply this knowledge in crafting treatment plans.

• Explore ethical considerations in addiction treatment and the unique needs of specific populations

• Examine a framework for supporting individuals with addiction with an emphasis on person-centered treatment approaches, integrating the latest evidence-based practices to improve outcomes.

Presented by: 

Stephanie Woodard, Psy.D and Ngoc Khuyen Tran, MD

Date/Time: 

November 7, 2025 | 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM PST

Location: 

University of Nevada, Reno - Cooperative Extension, 8050 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89123

Continuing Education Units:

6 CEUs (Includes 4 Ethics CEUs)

This training is approved for continuing education units by the boards listed here. Additional specifications can be found below.

Certification Board Information

NAADAC (The Association for Addiction Professionals)

This course has been approved by CASAT, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, as a NAADAC Approved Education Provider, for the below # of CEUs. NAADAC Provider #98165. CASAT is responsible for all aspects of its programming.

CEUs: 6

Skills Groups

This course applies to the following Client Skill Groups as defined by NAADAC

• Treatment Plan
• Counseling Services
• Documentation
• Case Management
• Legal, Ethical, and Professional Development

NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors)

CASAT has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6492. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CASAT is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. (Continuing education hours and CEU's are synonymous for purposes of issuing CEU's from CASAT Learning)

Qualifies for NBCC Credit: Yes

NCB (Nevada Certification Board)

This course is NOT approved

Details

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