The link between drugs, alcohol and mental health is well established. As counsellors many of us have seen clients dependent on substances or even behaviours. But how do we work with these issues safely in private practice or a general counselling service? Can understanding how addiction changes the way the brain works lead to better outcomes for clients? How do our own views affect our work as a counsellor?

This day of CPD brings together current thinking on addiction, treatment methods and counselling approaches. It gives an overview of different established models of addiction, including psychodynamic, as well as looking at neuroscientific theory in an accessible way. Attendees will learn about and practice established solution focussed techniques that can support clients to make positive and sustainable changes.

On the day attendees will:

• Learn how addictive substances and behaviours can affect the brain and consider how this might inform their work with clients.

• Learn about different models of addiction, including psychodynamic and reflect on their own beliefs about addiction.

• Learn about the Stages of Change model and practice some solution focused strategies for working to change addictive behaviours.

• Will consider the ethics and risks of working with addiction in the counselling room.