Harm reduction is a general term for pragmatic interventions aimed at reducing problematic behaviors. This training will describe the key principles of harm reduction and explore fundamental ethical considerations. The value of harm reduction strategies in practice and key considerations for clinical practice will be outlined and helpful clinical resources will be shared with attendees. Learners will gain valuable perspectives on harm reduction benefits and ethical considerations and have a framework for evaluating the efficacy of approaches in care.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Describe key principles of harm reduction and identify at least three ethical considerations.
- Identify at least three examples of harm reduction for specific problems and populations.
- Explain the value of harm reduction strategies in practice and key considerations for clinical practice.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Principles and Purpose of Harm Reduction
- Focus on reducing harm rather than eliminating behavior
- Centers health, safety, and client-defined goals
- Culturally competent, strengths-based, and flexible in approach
Objective #2: Examples of Harm Reduction Strategies
- Needle exchange and naloxone distribution
- Safer sex education and provision of clean supplies
- Behavioral substitutions (e.g., replacing binge eating or unsafe injection sites)
- Practical adjustments for hoarding and high-risk environments
Objective #3: Ethical Alignment and Social Work Values
- Aligns with self-determination, autonomy, and meeting clients where they are
- NASW standards support harm reduction in substance use treatment
- Emphasis on evidence-informed and collaborative practices
Objective #4: Deconstructing Stigma and Moral Judgments
- Tree of Liberation vs. Tree of Stigma framework (page 9 visual)
- Focus on beliefs, perceptions, and actions that empower vs. shame clients
- Shift from punitive to compassionate, person-centered care
Objective #5: Ethical View of the Patient
- View clients holistically in their social and environmental context
- Acknowledge adaptive reasons behind harmful behaviors
- Prioritize engagement, empowerment, and collaborative goal-setting
Objective #6: Clinical Assessment and Ethical Planning
- Risk-Set-Setting model for evaluating drug use and behavior contexts (page 13 visual)
- Key components: informed consent, ambivalence, relapse prevention, negotiation of goals
- Promote autonomy and reduce risk without requiring abstinence
Objective #7: Motivational Interviewing and Client Collaboration
- Use of OARS (Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summarizing)
- Explore client ambivalence and strengths to support readiness for change
- Harm reduction plan as a flexible and evolving collaboration
Objective #8: Medical and Psychiatric Harm Reduction Models
- Oncology, palliative care, and addiction psychiatry programs using HR strategies
- Emphasis on safety, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuity of care
- Abstinence not required to receive respectful and effective care
Objective #9: Case Applications and Clinical Tools
- Clinical worksheets: medication/relapse assessment, change plans, conversation starters
- Example: collaborative support for an oncology patient navigating alcohol dependence
- Emphasis on transparency, dignity, and incremental progress
X. Resources and Continued Learning
- SAMHSA Harm Reduction Framework and NASW guidelines
- Workbooks: “You and Substance Use,” “Power Over Addiction”
- TED Talks, practice planners, and supplemental case studies for deeper learning
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Ethics asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 Ethics continuing education training.
Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW
Recording Date: 8/15/2024
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 2hrs Ethics 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.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com