This one-day, interactive workshop will provide participants with an overview of evidenced-based treatment principles and emerging best-practices for the treatment of individuals with histories of trauma and co-occurring substance use and personality disorders. Through a combination of didactic presentation, group exercises, and participant self-reflection, workshop attendees will gain a better understanding of the interactive and synergistic relationship between exposure to trauma, substance use and personality development. Discussion will include a review of the challenges inherent in treating this population, and proven strategies for improving client outcomes and rates of client engagement and retention. Similarities and differences between the different types of personality disorders defined in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) will be reviewed, with a special emphasis on the personality disorders included in Cluster B (Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic and Narcissistic)

Workshop participants will learn how to incorporate “third-wave” cognitive behavioral strategies such as mindfulness, radical acceptance in their work with this population. Special emphasis will also be paid to reviewing the functional skills that comprise Dialectical Behavior Therapy (emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness). Workshop attendees will also learn how brain development and functioning is impacted by trauma exposure and substance use, and how this in turn contributes to disturbances in personality functioning.

Discussion of the various treatment strategies proven to be effective with this population will be grounded in the principles of client-centered and recovery-oriented care, including some emphasis on the importance of the use of recovery-oriented language to reduce the level of shame and stigma this population routinely experience in treatment.

Continuing Education Credits:

Social Worker CEUs: Determination of 6.0 National Association of Social Workers credits are pending.

Chemical Dependency Professionals CEUs: This training has been approved by the RI Certification Board for 6.0 continuing education credits (The RICB is an IC&RC affiliate).

Mental Health Counselors CEUs: Determination of 6.0 RI Mental Health Counselors Association are pending.

Register here.