Program Outcomes - (HJ10)

Upon successful completion of the DARC Certificate the successful graduate should be able to:

1. Describe the physical, emotional and psychological basis of addiction
2. Define the causes and characteristics of substance dependence and addiction relevant to various populations and cultures
3. Define and apply counseling theories to addiction counseling including Adlerian, Existential, Person-Centered, Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, Reality, Behavior, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, and Feminist perspectives
4. Define, demonstrate and apply ethical principles and practices according to NAADAC, the CCB, and professional behavior for working directly in the counseling field
5. Demonstrate knowledge and skills related to relapse prevention education and strategies
6. Describe the categories of drugs and effects on psychological functioning
7. Describe characteristics of individuals with co-occurring disorders and specific treatment strategies for working with this population
8. Demonstrate the ability to develop, write and implement treatment plans for individuals with addiction and co-occurring disorders
9. Co-facilitate group counseling sessions under supervision
10. Describe the use of case management in the treatment of persons with addiction and co-occurring disorders
11. Demonstrate ability to develop discharge plans for persons with addiction and co-occurring disorders
12. Demonstrate understanding of the screening, intake and evaluation process in addiction and co-occurring disorders treatment
13. Demonstrate ability to keep accurate records of group/individual process, treatment and discharge planning
14. Describe and demonstrate skills involved in crisis intervention
15. Describe the purpose and availability of self-help groups for persons with addiction/co-occurring disorders
16. Describe the effects of substance abuse on the family, educational needs and stages of recovery for families
17. Describe the stages of change model and its application to treatment of addiction and co-occurring disorders
18. Describe the use of multicultural counseling skills to assessment, treatment and aftercare issues of persons of different gender, ethnicity, disability, adolescents, the elderly, GBLT and homeless
19. Describe the transdisciplinary foundations and competencies required of addiction counselor (TAP 21)
20. Describe the use of medication in the treatment of addiction and co-occurring disorders
21. Demonstrate engagement in community service activities to educate others about the process, dangers and treatment of addiction
22. Discuss the purpose of clinical supervision and participate in the supervision process
23. Write a comprehensive case study based on a biopsychosocial assessment, including diagnosis, treatment plan goals and interventions acceptable for submission to the Connecticut Certification Board (CCB).