Diagnosis and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders: Assessment & Diagnosis

This course is Part 2 of a comprehensive 5-part series. See more information about the series below.

Accurate assessment and diagnosis form the backbone of effective treatment for substance use disorders. In this course, participants will gain the skills necessary to select appropriate assessment tools, navigate the DSM-V for diagnosing substance use disorders, and recognize common co-occurring mood disorders. By understanding how thorough assessments guide accurate diagnoses, learners will be better prepared to design effective, individualized treatment plans. Special attention will be given to dual diagnoses and the interplay between substance use and mental health conditions.

Learning Objectives

• Select appropriate assessment tools for diagnosing substance use disorders.
• Explain how thorough assessment is imperative to accurate diagnosis and appropriate selection of treatment interventions.
• Use the DSM-V to diagnose substance use disorders.
• Identify the mood disorders most commonly associated with substance use disorders.
• Learn how to diagnose a client with a dual diagnosis.

Prior Learning

This noncredit course is best suited for Social Work professionals looking to up-skill in their field. Additionally, to ensure success, students should:

• Be comfortable reading and understanding English, as all materials are provided in English.
• Have basic computer skills, including navigating the internet, downloading/uploading files, installing software, and using applications like Microsoft Word.

About the Series