You may be interested in this: Please go to http://www.apsads.org/ for
more information and registration.
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Treating the Deaf Client
Instructors: Dr. Debra Guthmann, Ed.D.


This course will focus on substance abuse issues within the Deaf and
Hard of Hearing communities. The course is designed for individuals who
would like to develop a better understanding and awareness of
considerations when working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals
that may have a substance abuse problem. The course will include:
general substance abuse information, cultural considerations, assessment
information, barriers to accessing treatment and aftercare services,
interpreter issues, psychological aspects, family issues, drug/alcohol
prevention, work with dually diagnosed clients, clinical approaches,
relapse prevention, aftercare planning, available materials and
resources, treatment planning and ethical issues.

Expected Learner Outcomes:


1. Identify the chemical dependency principles, physiological effects,
diagnostic impression, potential problem areas of concern,
recommendations, assessment issues and the overall impact on a deaf or
hard of hearing person=s life;

2. Identify the components that are included in the continuum of care
and different models of treatment when determining services for a
chemically dependent deaf or hard of hearing individual;

3. Identify specific clinical approaches that may include: barriers,
evaluation, assessment, client assignments, behavior management and the
role of spirituality in treatment when working with chemically dependent
deaf or hard of hearing individuals;

4. Identify accessibility considerations such as the role of the
interpreter, prevention and issues related to family systems including;
the range of the continuum of services, bonding, relationships and
demographic information;

5. Identify issues regarding substance abuse, co-dependency and the role
of the family when working with deaf and hard of hearing individuals;

6. Identify the definition and strategies used for relapse prevention,
the application of self help groups, sponsorship, twelve step meetings,
national resources and aftercare services when working with chemically
dependent deaf and hard of hearing individuals;

7. Identify psychological and therapeutic considerations when working
with deaf or Hard of hearing individuals;

8. Identify the ethical considerations regarding clinical treatment,
confidentiality, cross-cultural counseling, boundaries, dual
relationships and self-disclosure when working with deaf and hard of
hearing individuals;


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Steve Hamerdinger, Director
Office of Deaf Services
Alabama Department of Mental Health
100 North Union Street
Montgomery, AL 36130



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