According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, half of people 12 and older have used illicit drugs at least once. The federal budget for drug control in 2020 was $35 billion dollars. There have been over 700k drug overdose deaths since the year 2000. (https://drugabusestatistics.org/) Group Treatment and traditional work with substance use disorder have been challenged to develop a language and practice for younger clients. Developing a solution focus by integrating the 12 Steps of AA, the 12 Proactive Steps (Rational Recovery), with positive psychology helps millennials and younger clients find a language that better fits their culture. The practical worksheets included helping both the group facilitator and the client learn new belief systems and behaviors surrounding how to make better choices in life which will result in substance-free living.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Apply the tenants of the Proactive 12 Steps to SUD groups.
- Implement solution-focused principles for leading SUD groups.
- Identify at least 5 of the cognitive distortions involved in substance use disorder.
- Address the 5 markers that create substance use disorder.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Reimagining Traditional Approaches
- Recognize limitations of traditional 12-step language for diverse populations
- Understand the need to integrate CBT, solution-focused therapy, and positive psychology
- Explore generational shifts in engagement and language preferences in treatment
- Discuss the Proactive 12 Steps as a secular, modernized adaptation
Objective #2: Applying the Proactive 12 Steps
- Reframe Step 1 from powerlessness to acknowledgment of ineffective solutions
- Emphasize internal motivation and pattern awareness rather than external surrender
- Focus on self-reflection, responsibility, and actionable change
- Highlight core themes of mindfulness, self-care, and relational accountability
Objective #3: Implementing Solution-Focused Techniques in Groups
- Build group cohesion and encourage collective problem-solving
- Reinforce client strengths and future-focused goals
- Promote the belief that small, meaningful change is achievable for everyone
- Frame each participant as an expert in their own life
- Guide clients to uncover existing resources, skills, and previous successes
Objective #4: Core Tools of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Use the Miracle Question to help clients identify desired outcome
- Apply Scaling Questions to track progress and measure motivation
- Identify exceptions when the problem did not occur and explore those successes
- Reinforce positive identity and potential through reframing and hope-based language
Objective #5: Addressing Cognitive Distortions and Substance Use
- Identify how distorted thinking contributes to continued substance use
- Explore patterns such as catastrophizing, labeling, blaming, and “always/never” thinking
- Help clients build insight and challenge unhelpful beliefs through journaling and dialogue
- Use emotional regulation and fact-based thinking to reduce shame and negative self-talk
Objective #6: Exploring Root Causes and Antidotes to Substance Use
- Review five common contributors to substance use: availability, boredom, curiosity, reward-seeking, and trauma
- Connect these markers to emotional and behavioral patterns
- Introduce antidotes such as accountability, creativity, mindfulness, patience, and healing
- Encourage clients to reflect on personal history, triggers, and coping strategies
Objective #7: Shifting Identity and Language in Recovery
- Guide clients away from labels and deficit-based language
- Promote new identity statements that highlight gratitude, effort, and growth
- Explore how identity transformation impacts motivation and self-worth
Objective #8: Practical Applications and Case Studies
- Analyze sample case studies to illustrate solution-focused interventions
- Practice applying Proactive 12 Step adaptations and SFBT techniques in group settings
- Facilitate group discussions that foster resilience, insight, and connection
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dr. Paul Hardy, D.Min. NMAC, CSAC
Recording Date: March 11, 2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
System Requirements: Firefox, Chrome, Brave, Safari, Edge on any modern operating system (Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS). A desktop browser is recommended. We do not provide support resources for issues encountered using a mobile device.
Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com