Erie Community College, State University of New York

MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANT - SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Program Competencies

Upon graduation with an associate in science degree in Mental Health Assistant-Substance Abuse, the graduate will be able to:

• Understand the disease concept of chemical dependency
• Apply this understanding to working with addicted individuals, families and significant others
• Understand the chemical dependency treatment systems available, referral practices and linkages
• Understand mental health problems as related to addiction and recovery
• Understand the pharmacology of drugs, drug interactions, and resulting addictive patterns
• Develop and apply basic human relations counseling skills
• Apply standardized diagnostic, assessment, and treatment techniques
• Perform basic individual and group counseling skills
• Write and implement effective recovery treatment plans
• Write appropriate and effective clinical documentation
• Perform clinical interventions
• Understand the roles and identity of being a professional chemical dependency counselor
• Understand and perform according to the guidelines of confidentiality and professional ethical behavior
• Know how to find and use addictions literature for clinical practice
• Knowledge of 12-Step and self-help therapeutic activities