Addressing the Complexity of Co-morbid Addictions and Trauma

While the majority of individuals struggling with an addiction achieve sobriety without the need for professional services, individuals with comorbidities and complex histories often require repeated treatments in order to achieve sustainable health. As such, when working with clients struggling with an addiction, counsellors often meet with co-morbid clients who are in early phases of the change cycle and with symptoms that appear resistant to change. Treatment can be particularly challenging when working with clients who are self-medicating trauma related psychological symptoms with substances.

This engaging and interactive workshop is designed for counsellors seeking to enhance their ability to support clients with complex histories. Participants will gain an understanding of the key elements involved in identifying, screening, and providing effective interventions for clients with co-morbid addictions and trauma.

What you will learn:

• A holistic framework to understand the interconnection of co-morbid addictions and trauma
• How to conceptualize clients with comorbid addictions and trauma
• The intersection of the latest research in neuroscience, behavioral economics, and psychology and how it informs trauma
• More interventions to add to your toolbox

Join Carissa Muth for this engaging and interactive workshop, where you’ll discover practical strategies and essential tools to better conceptualize and support clients with co-morbid addictions and trauma.

About the Presenter

Carissa Muth, PsyD, RPsych (AB & BC)

Carissa Muth, PsyD, RPsych (AB & BC) is the clinical director of Sunshine Coast Health Centre and Georgia Strait Women’s Centre, inpatient mental health treatment facilities. In addition to her role teaching, training, and supervising counselling students, Dr. Muth designs and oversees program development at SCHC and GSWC. Dr. Muth’s previous experience includes over ten years in private practice as a clinical psychologist providing formal assessments and treatments to adults and adolescents. She specialized in the treatment of addictions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Her research to date has focused on the intersection between attachment theory and addictions, primarily on the role of family relationships in the recovery process. Dr. Muth has presented at numerous conferences throughout the country educating professionals on current research and methods for treating complex client cases.