CAS 761A - Clinical Interventions for Substance/COD Dx: Couples

(3 units)

This course examines evidence-based couples therapy models applied to substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. Students learn dyadic assessment, systemic conceptualization, intervention planning, and ethical decision-making for couples with complex clinical needs. Emphasis is placed on behavioral, attachment-based, trauma-informed, and integrative approaches.

Maximum units a student may earn: 3

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. describe the process and key considerations for treating co-occurring disorders with couples-based therapy from intake through termination, including considerations for safety assessments, contextual issues, treatment planning, and treatment implementation.
2. demonstrate proficiency in the application of couples-based interventions in co-occurring treatment through simulated practice activities.
3. demonstrate proficiency in at least five core couples therapy skills through simulated practice activities.
4. analyze empirical research on couples-based interventions for co-occurring disorders and apply new knowledge to real-world scenarios through practitioner interviews.
5. identify at least four ethical considerations unique to couples therapy with co-occurring diagnoses and apply relevant professional codes to a complex case scenario.
6. reflect on “self-of the therapist” influences on couples work, identifying two specific factors that shape the student’s engagement, bias, and clinical stance.

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