PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This program will explain the dynamics of relapse prevention; describe the progressive warning signs that lead from stable recovery to alcohol and drug use, and present a simple and powerful method for quickly developing an effective relapse prevention plan.  The effective application of relapse prevention methods is critical to clients who suffer from relapse. Many relapse prone clients suffer from chronic and debilitating forms of addiction, personality disorders, and mental disorders that require life-long care.  Relapse prevention methods when properly matched to individual needs reduces relapse rates, increases recovery rates, and decreases the frequency, duration, and consequences of relapse episodes. Relapse prevention methods are an effective way to contain the costs of addiction treatment while increasing treatment effectiveness.  Effective relapse prevention requires that recovering people have access to multidisciplinary community services staffed by people who are knowledgeable and properly trained in addiction treatment and relapse prevention.   This program is aimed at the basic intermediate to advanced skill level. 

FACULTY: Terence T. Gorski, MA, MAC, NCAC II, Florida CAP, is a pioneer in the development of Relapse Prevention Therapy, who has achieved international acclaim for his work.  He is considered a leader and authority in the addiction, behavioral health, social services, and correctional industries for his work in recovery and relapse prevention.  Mr. Gorski’s practical approach to recovery and relapse prevention is based on more than thirty-five years experience as a therapist, supervisor, program administrator, and consultant.  He has become a leading authority on the use of science-based models for preventing relapse.  His unique approach to treatment system development is biopsychosocial in nature and integrates the use of cognitive, affective, behavioral, family, and community recovery methods.  Mr. Gorski holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master of Arts Degree from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri.  He is also a Certified Addiction Professional in Florida, a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) and Nationally Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC II) by NAADAC, and a Senior Certified Addiction Counselor (CSAC) in the State of Illinois.  Mr. Gorski is the Founder and President of The CENAPS^® Corporation and is currently a lecturing professor and Coordinator of the Addiction Studies Concentration at the Tampa Bay Campus of Springfield College.  Mr. Gorski also serves on the Board of Directors of the Florida School of Addiction Studies and Florida NAADAC. 

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:  At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

• discuss the principles of relapse prevention,

• discuss the research-based stages and warning signs of relapse,

• describe the stages of recovery, based on the Developmental Model of Recovery,

• utilize the “Relapse Warning Sign List” as a tool for identifying and managing relapse warning signs before alcohol and drug use occurs, 

• utilize a Relapse Early Intervention Plan to prepare recovering people to stop alcohol and drug use quickly should it occur.

AGENDA:

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM                  Registration, Sign-In, and Introductions

8:30 AM - 10:30 AM               Overview of Relapse Prevention

10:30 AM - 10:45 AM             Morning Break 

10:45 AM - 12:00 PM             Research and Principals of Relapse Prevention

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM               Lunch (on your own) 

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM                 Identifying and Managing Relapse Warning Signs

2:30 PM - 2:45 PM                 Afternoon Break

2:45 PM - 4:30 PM                 Relapse Early Intervention Techniques - Applications.

4:30 PM                                   Program Closure and Evaluation

INTENDED AUDIENCE:  psychologists, social workers, licensed professional counselors, addiction therapists, psychiatric nurses, chaplains, and other mental health professionals.

CONTINUING EDUCATION STATEMENTS: The Southwest Health Professions Education Center, Inc. (SEC) certifies this program for 6 contact hours.  A certificate of attendance will be awarded. 

[ APA ] -- The Southwest Health Professions Education Center, Inc. (SEC) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. SEC maintains responsibility for the program and its content.  This program provides 6 CE credits.

[ ASWB ] -- VA Employee Education System, Provider Number 1040, is approved as a provider for continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards 400 South Ridge Parkway, Suite B, Culpeper, VA 22701. www.aswb.org. ASWB Approval Period: 4/7/2010 - 4/7/2013. Social workers should contact their regulatory board to determine course approval. Social workers will receive 6 continuing education clock hours in participating in this course.

[ NBCC ] – The VA Employee Education System is approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) to offer continuing education accreditation for National Certified and Licensed Counselors.  We adhere to NBCC Continuing Education Guidelines.  This program is approved for 6 contact hours.  Provider #5927.

[ CNE ] -- The Southwest Health Professions Education Center, Inc. (SEC) is a provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, provider # CEP 11270.  This program is approved for 6 contact hours.

REGISTRATION FEES: Registration fee is $125.00.  Fee for full-time VA employees is $8.00.  Includes continental breakfast, break refreshments, and course material.  Credit card registrations may be faxed to (928) 776-6137.  Registration is not complete until payment received.  Space is limited.  Please register early.  Refunds, minus a $15.00 processing fee, will be made until three days prior to the program.  No refunds will be made after this date. There will a $20.00 processing fee for any returned checks.
Confirmation letters will not be sent.