Instructor | Dr. Brian Paulson, Ph.D.

Specialized instruction on field-based models, de-escalation techniques, and lethality assessment are provided. 

Professionals learn to evaluate physical safety risks and manage intense affective flooding during active emergencies. 

Structured protocols guide the assessment of suicidal intent and homicidal ideation to protect the broader community. 

Course highlights include specialized instruction on the neurobiology of trauma, differentiating posttraumatic stress from acute stress, and recognizing comorbid disorders. 

Professionals utilize standardized screening instruments like the PCL-5 and conduct structured clinical interviews safely. 

Formulating actionable objectives based on the SMART goal framework ensures treatment plans directly address immediate safety and long-term stabilization needs. 

Uses the Quadrant Model of Care to match clients with co-occurring disorders to the right level of services.

Builds skills in differential diagnosis, separating substance-induced symptoms from independent psychiatric disorders.

Clarifies Pennsylvania scope of practice for LPCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, LSWs, and LBSWs, and how they work with DDAP-licensed drug and alcohol programs.

Clinicians apply the Pennsylvania codes of ethical practice and the CE rules for the February 28, 2027 renewal, including the 20 clock hour home study limit.

Practitioners handle releases, records requests, and subpoenas under the Mental Health Procedures Act, HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and Act 65 of 2020.

Professionals identify when Pennsylvania law calls for a warning or a mandated report and document the decision with a step by step template.

Participants will integrate 12-step facilitation and group therapy dynamics into comprehensive, individualized addiction treatment plans.

Learners will evaluate the neurobiological and cognitive mechanisms driving both substance use and process addictions, particularly gambling and disordered eating.

Practitioners will utilize the Transtheoretical Model and CBT to manage cravings, identify high-risk situations, and develop practical relapse prevention plans.

Participants will apply the Hybrid Model of Crisis Intervention to rapidly assess physical safety and stabilize highly dysregulated clients in short-term therapeutic settings.

Learners will utilize specific, collaborative communication strategies to de-escalate severe emotional distress and facilitate immediate client coping.

Counselors will implement emergency telehealth protocols to manage remote crises safely and in compliance with Kansas BSRB jurisdictional regulations.

Learners will implement structural and transgenerational family systems theories to conceptualize rigid boundaries, enmeshment, and chronic triangulation within distressed family units.

Learners will utilize Behavioral Couple Therapy (BCT) and communication skills training to resolve severe relational conflict and address substance use within cohabiting relationships.

Learners will apply Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Narrative Therapy techniques to externalize systemic problems and build resilience in blended and culturally diverse families.

Explains why Gambling Disorder moved from impulse control disorders to addictive disorders, and the brain changes it shares with substance use.

Reviews the nine diagnostic criteria for Gambling Disorder, including chasing losses and bailouts.

Trains clinicians on screening and assessment tools such as the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and the NODS.

Reviews the eight practice dimensions of addiction counseling in TAP 21 and how they fit Texas social work practice.

Applies the Stages of Change and Motivational Interviewing to improve client engagement and retention.

Covers medication-assisted treatment and co-occurring psychiatric disorders within the scope of each social work license level.

Uses the Quadrant Model of Care to match clients with co-occurring disorders to the right level of services.

Builds skills in differential diagnosis, separating substance-induced symptoms from independent psychiatric disorders.

Clarifies Texas scope of practice for LBSWs, LMSWs, LCSWs, and LCDCs under 22 TAC Chapter 781.

Applies 22 TAC Chapter 781, including the technology rule (§781.323), to telehealth practice, with comparisons to the LPC, LMFT, and LCDC rules.

Explains where Texas stands on the Social Work Licensure Compact and what that means for serving clients in other states.

Provides a framework for remote emergency plans, including confirming client location and coordinating with local resources.

Explains the roles of the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners.

Reviews the key statutes and rules behind Texas social work licensure, including Occupations Code Chapter 505 and 22 TAC Chapter 781.

Covers the jurisprudence exam, CE requirements, and the core rules on records, confidentiality, and client relationships.