Please note this is an online course.

Important note: There are several points throughout this training when a screen appears prompting participants to stop and discuss a topic. If you are a registrant taking this course individually, please disregard these points; the presentation will continue to play.

In Biology of Addiction I participants are introduced to the fundamental processes of neurotransmission and the central nervous system. This training assumes that participants have not revisited the study human biology since high school. The information is presented in an accessible format with the purpose of having participants develop an appreciation for the impact of substances on brain function that lead to clients continued use despite tragic consequences. The material is approached from a counselor perspective (not a medical or basic research perspective) with the objective of providing participants with the basic information that they need to educate and empower clients. Biology of Addiction I introduces participants to an overview of the impact of alcohol, opiates, and stimulants on the body and brain. Participants will learn about the risk factors to various organs and systems of the body that result from the use of alcohol, opiates, and stimulants. A variety of resources suitable for clients engagement and education on the biology of addiction will be presented.

Speaker: Lauren Doninger, Ed.D, LADC, LPC