Substance abuse program outline:
I. Minor in Possession Program (04 sessions or 06 hours)
a. Definitions of Alcoholism/Addiction i.e., Dr. Ohlms “The Disease Concept”.
b. Progression of the Disease (i.e., Dr. Jellinek & his chart).
c. Recognition of choices and the impact of community (peer) pressures.
d. Basic understanding of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Effect (as well as the effect that drugs have on the fetus).
e. Definition of binge drinking.
II. Educational Program (08 sessions or 12 hours):
a. An inclusion of the material listed above.
b. Defense Mechanisms & Cognitive Distortions (Denial and Minimization of problems).
c. Basic (Rudimentary) understanding of the 12 step programs and the applicability to personal drug/alcohol use.
d. A basic understanding of the effect the individuals (drug of choice/dependence) has on the individual
bio-chemically.
e. A basic Understanding of the Bio/Psycho/Social & Spiritual nature of the disease.
f. A basic understanding of Relapse & Recovery concepts.
g. A basic understanding of the interactions of psychotropic medications and alcohol/drugs.
h. An introduction to issues of fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effect.
III. Relapse Prevention/Recovery Group (15 sessions or 23.5 hours):
a. An inclusion of the material listed above.
b. Define Relapse.
c. “Red Flag” (triggers) warning signs and symptoms of a relapse.
d. A basic understanding of the relapse process.
e. How to anticipate and cope with the problem of relapse.
f. Cope with urges and craving.
g. Understand the dangers of switching addictions, i.e., marijuana to alcohol, etc.
h. Implement damage control procedures during a lapse to minimize its negative consequences.
i. Learn how to create a more balanced lifestyle.
j. An Introduction to basic Stress & Anger Management Techniques.
k. Explore the use history and develop a plan to change patterns and therefore change outcomes.
l. Processing “life’s problems” with alternatives to alcohol/drugs. Managing the mental and emotional challenges
that may have led to relapse in the past.
m. Define Recovery
n. Understanding your relationship with alcohol/drugs.
o. You will have integrated “the sayings” into your speech patterns.
p. ‘Road Blocks’ to recovery.
q. Beginning to understand/integrate the 12 Steps of AA/NA.
i. Some ‘Step #04” work is done during this part of the process.
ii. Discuss establishing a home group and sponsor – begin to discuss participation and integration of 12
step concepts, values, and behaviors into daily routine/lifestyle.