Overview

Substance use disorders are among the most common mental disorders. They are frequently encountered by psychologists in various practice settings. A significant proportion of individuals seeking treatment for another mental health problem will meet diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder. Psychological interventions, especially cognitive-behavioural interventions, are some of the most effective treatments for substance use disorders. This workshop will cover best practice approaches to the assessment and treatment of substance use disorders for psychologists with a focus on how to practically implement them in modern day practice. Participants will develop their knowledge of how to adapt core psychological techniques to treat substance use problems. They will also learn cognitive-behavioural techniques specific to the treatment of substance use disorders and receive guidance on how to effectively utilise them in routine clinical practice.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this workshop, participants should be able to:

• Conduct evidence-based assessment of substance use disorders and develop a case formulation to guide treatment
• Apply cognitive-behavioural skills to reduce problematic substance use
• Manage common therapeutic challenges that arise in treating substance use disorders

Presenter(s)

Dr. Matthew Gullo

About the presenter(s)

Associate Professor Matthew Gullo is a clinical psychologist in the School of Applied Psychology and the Centre for Mental Health, Griffith University. Matthew's expertise is in the assessment and treatment of substance use disorders and his research investigates the complex biosocial cognitive mechanisms involved, revealing new targets for personalised intervention. He has authored over 130 peer-reviewed scientific publications and led the ‘Psychosocial Interventions’ section of the Australian National Guidelines for the Treatment of Alcohol Problems. A true scientist-practitioner, he continues to provide treatment services as a Visiting Senior Clinical Psychologist at the Alcohol and Drug Assessment Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital. Here, he has led several innovations in service delivery that have benefited over 10,500 patients. Matthew is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and a Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists.

Notes

Please arrive by 8:45am on the morning of the event to sign in and be seated for a 9am start.

Please note that morning and afternoon tea as well as lunch are provided and are included in registration cost.

Target Audience

This activity is aimed at psychologists and health professionals.

CPD

It is up to attendees to assess and determine how learning from this event aligns with the requirements of their learning plan. The providers accordingly do not make any representation that the event counts towards attendees’ CPD learning requirements. If an attendee determines themselves that the learning they complete aligns to their learning plan, then they can decide to count those hours towards their CPD requirements for the registration cycle.

The information in this presentation has been prepared in good faith and for educational purposes only. Therefore, the information is general in nature and should not be relied upon in the treatment of any condition and you should seek your own independent professional and/or legal advice concerning any specific issue. The APS accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions or decisions relating to the information. The content should not be reproduced without permission or unless permitted by law.

If you are experiencing registration difficulties please contact APS Events Support.