CASAC Trainee Core Competencies: Person-Centered Substance Use Counseling and Integrated Treatment Planning

CASAC Trainee Core Competencies: Person-Centered Substance Use Counseling and Integrated Treatment Planning

Course Overview

Welcome to an engaging and transformative training experience designed for emerging and aspiring CASAC (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor) professionals! In today’s diverse communities across New York and beyond, effective substance use counseling is rooted in understanding, respect, and person-centered care. This course blends the latest evidence-based practices with culturally responsive approaches—empowering you to serve individuals, families, and communities with skill and compassion.

What You Will Gain

• Confidently apply core clinical competencies required of CASAC trainees in addiction treatment settings
• Develop proficiency in person-centered care, honoring the values and experiences of those you serve
• Master evidence-based counseling strategies tailored for substance use disorders in multicultural environments
• Assess and diagnose cannabis use disorder accurately, understanding unique community perspectives and stigma
• Utilize Motivational Interviewing techniques to guide individuals toward readiness for positive change
• Integrate mental health and substance use treatment planning for holistic, sustainable recovery outcomes

Key Topics and Skills Covered

• CASAC Foundations: Ethical standards, client engagement, clinical documentation
• Person-Centered Care: Building trust, cultural humility, trauma-informed approaches
• Evidence-Based Counseling: Cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused methods adapted to local needs
• Assessment & Diagnosis: Criteria for cannabis use disorder and substance severity in diverse populations
• Motivational Interviewing: Proven techniques for supporting clients’ self-determined goals
• Integrated Treatment Planning: Addressing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders

Who Should Enroll?

• CASAC trainees, interns, and paraprofessionals in addiction counseling roles
• Human service providers, peer advocates, and health educators seeking to deepen their practice
• Individuals with a commitment to making a difference in local communities affected by substance use

Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; interest or experience in human services, behavioral health, or related fields.

Course Benefits & Real-World Applications

• Build practical skills in supportive, culturally relevant counseling to address the needs of New York’s diverse communities
• Enhance employability and readiness for CASAC credentialing and career advancement
• Equip yourself to reduce stigma, promote recovery, and improve outcomes for individuals and families
• Be a catalyst for change—helping to strengthen resilience and healing where it matters most

Why This Course Matters

Substance use affects every community, yet every journey is unique. By choosing this course, you affirm your commitment not only to clinical excellence, but also to the cultural values of respect, inclusion, and hope. Join a network of dedicated professionals who help shape healthier, stronger communities—one person at a time.