Upon completion of "Human Services 126: Psychopharmacology For Addictions Counselors" the student will be able to:

1. Discuss the biological, psychological and sociological theories of drug abuse and addiction.
2. Verbalize an understanding of the legalities of substance abuse, i.e., factors in controlling drug use, drug testing and drug legalization.
3. Distinguish between psychoactive and psychotropic drugs.
4. Identify the mental disorders that necessitate the need for psychotropics.
5. Discuss the differences between the psychoactive classifications, i.e., mechanisms of action, side effects and toxic effects of each classification.
6. Discuss the mechanisms of action of anti-depressants, neuroleptics and anti-manic drugs.
7. Identify the toxic side effects of the psychotropics that would necessitate immediate referral to Psychiatry.

Course Requirements:

For students who have not had a previous course in Addictionology, I require that you take the Pre-requisite course of H.S. 125, Introduction to Addictions. For Master’s prepared individuals (Social Workers, Teachers, and licensed counselors), I will allow you to take this course and forego the pre-req. To benefit from an Internet delivered class, you should have some computer skills, as well as access to the Internet and email.