CAS 770 - Internship in Substance and Co-Occurring Treatment

(3-6 units)

This supervised internship prepares students to address co-occurring disorders (CODs), where mental health and substance use disorders intersect. Students gain skills in comprehensive screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of dual diagnoses. Focus areas include ethical practice, cultural competence, and interdisciplinary collaboration in diverse treatment settings.

Maximum units a student may earn: 12

Prerequisite(s): CAS 674 and CAS 759 or the equivalent. Department permission is required to enroll.

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Internship/Practicum: 3
Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. demonstrate non-judgmental, recovery-oriented attitudes and cultural humility when working with clients experiencing co-occurring mental health (MH) and substance use disorders (SUDS).
2. navigate ethical dilemmas in co-occurring MH & SUD treatment, including confidentiality across teams, boundary management, and integrating mental health and addiction ethics.
3. apply evidence-based approaches with co-occurring clients, demonstrating motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and integrated treatment planning skills.
4. explain developmental factors impacting co-occurring disorders across the lifespan and implement age-appropriate interventions and supports.
5. apply specialized group techniques for co-occurring disorders, including integrated models, relapse prevention, and trauma-processing for dual diagnoses with an emphasis on SUD/MH.
6. conduct comprehensive assessments using screening tools, diagnostic criteria, and evaluate withdrawal risk, suicidality, and readiness for change for clients with SUD and Co-Occurring disorders.
7. implement evidence-based practices for substance use and co-occurring disorders, including integrated treatment models, medication-assisted treatment, and recovery systems.
8. demonstrate clinical competence addressing complex co-occurring needs through care coordination, addressing social determinants, and culturally responsive care.

Click here for course scheduling information. | Check course textbook information