Course Essentials

Course Description

This class provides a basic overview of addiction and considers the contribution of early childhood trauma on the developing brain and its influence on addictive behaviors, the signs and symptoms of addiction, the continuum of addictive behaviors, treatment, prevention, recovery, and relapse. This is not a “counseling” course but rather is a course intended to provide essential information toward understanding the various aspects of addiction, treatment, and recovery. This course is a prerequisite for acceptance into the Addiction Counseling Program (when earning a C or above).

Intended Outcomes for the Course

1. Understand the evolving nature of addiction science and how to remain current in the field.

2. Understand the career pathways and certifications related to providing addiction specific services in the states of Oregon and Washington

3. Describe the essentials of interpersonal neurobiology as it relates to trauma and the development of addictive behaviors.

For more information, please go to the Course Content and Outcome Guide for this course.

Course Topics

1. Introduction to Addiction

2. Historical and Theoretical Views on Addiction

3. The Brain and Addiction

4. Neurological and Genetic Aspects of Addiction

5. Memory and Psychology

6. Families and Addiction

7. Recovery and Relapse

8. Prevention and Treatment

9. Motivational Interviewing and Stages of Change

10. Gambling and Career Pathways

11. Course Closing and Reflection

📖Instructional Materials:

Textbook  

In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction by Maté, G., & Ph., P. L. A. (2010) (Illustrated ed.). North Atlantic Books.

Uppers, Downers, All Arounders: Physical and Mental Effects of Psychoactive Drugs, by Inaba, D., & Cohen, W. E. (2014).  Medford, OR: CNS Publications, Inc.

📖Additional Recommended Reading: 

Drugs and Society Thirteenth edition., Hanson, Glen (Glen R., Venturelli, P. J., & Fleckenstein, A. E. (2017) . Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2018  You can find at PCC Library OnLine. Chapters 1 & 2.

Additional resources for each topic and class will be available on D2L Brightspace each week.  These may include videos, articles, websites for infographics.

Supplies

• Reliable computer and internet access.

Software/Hardware/Equipment

The specific software/hardware/equipment and tools used in this course are:

• Desire 2 Learn Brightspace

Please visit What Apps and Tools Can I Use? for a complete list of apps and tools for PCC students.

Technical Expectations

The technical requirements for online courses include:

• Technology Requirements for taking an online course at PCC

• A recommended Internet Browser installed

• Ability to use Google Drive and Google Docs

• Webcam and/or microphone for online appointments (if requested).

Digital Resources

Are you new to PCC? The Tech @ PCC panther track is a self-service guide to getting acquainted with the websites and software that PCC students use. The digital literacy site includes information and tutorial videos for students to learn about:

•  Tech @ PCC Panther Track

• Northstar Online Learning

• Digital literacy classes and workshops

• Self-paced digital skill-building 

• Community partner services

• Computer labs on campus 

• Laptops and Chromebooks for checkout

• Accessible Technology

• Where to get technology help

Digital Navigators

Digital Navigators are trusted guides who address the whole digital inclusion process — home connectivity, affordable devices, and digital skills training — with students and community members.

Accessibility

This course uses digital courseware, software, or texts that may cause barriers for those using assistive, or accessibility-related technologies. If you encounter barriers, please contact the Access Tech Team via email at access-tech-group@pcc.edu or by calling 971-722-TECH (971-722-8324).

Accommodations and Services

PCC is committed to supporting all students. If you plan to use academic accommodation for this course, please contact your instructor as soon as possible to discuss your needs. Accommodations are not retroactive; they begin when the instructor receives the “Approved Academic Accommodations” letter from you (submitted in person for courses on campus; via email for Distance Learning courses). To request academic accommodations for a disability, please contact a disability services counselor on any PCC campus. Office locations, phone numbers, and additional information may be located on the Accessible Ed & Disability Resources website.

Resources at the PCC Library

For hours and location, visit the PCC Library Librarians are available in-person and online via research help appointments, chat, and email during each term. Campus libraries are open on weekdays and weekends, offering computers, printing, and quiet study spaces through reservable study rooms with books and equipment such as laptops for checkout. Watch this latest version of a quick video about using the PCC library website to navigate your PCC Library.  Addiction Counseling program guide at Addiction Counseling: Getting Started.  We also offer a general video about using the PCC  online library.

Like most librarians in the PCC library, I am a generalist. I spend much of my time asking questions. I try to help students think about what they are looking for and then we explore where to look for information and how to find it; finally I try to help students figure out if what they find is really useful to them. I work online and at the Cascade library’s research help desk. I meet with remote and in-person classes to show students how the library can help them get started on their research, and I also teach a one-credit class on doing research, including how to use the library and the Internet effectively.

I love being a librarian, and working in the PCC Library is my dream job. My professional goal is for our students to become life-long learners, savvy finders and users of information, and for everybody to recognize any library as a welcoming place for them to use and enjoy.

Torie!