Level One: Basic substance abuse course

Although this course provides open access to all learners irrespective of any formal qualification, candidates should have at least have elementary reading and writing skills (Abet Level 1). For learners to optimise this learning experience, it is further recommended that prospective learners seriously consider the following:

  • An individual who is currently using substances, has used substances and has recently been released from an in- patient treatment centre or are struggling to come to terms with his/her drug use or with family members using substances is cautioned not to view the training programme as a therapeutic opportunity to resolve personal issues. The programme is not structured to address individual problem situations and facilitators are primarily guided by the specific outcomes of the programme.
  • Individuals facing such challenges are urged to make an appointment with a SANCA Counsellor to discuss these issues prior to enrolling for the course
  • Learners who attend as part of a community initiative are also reminded that this course is not intended to design and strategise a community plan of action. This can be arranged through ad hoc meetings with SANCA ( WC) staff.

Course outline

General training course on Substance Abuse and Dependency (Level 1)

Day 1 Dependancy

  • Overview of substance abuse terminology and the process of addiction
  • Alcohol and alcoholism
  • The passage of alcohol through the body
  • Short- and long-term effects of alcohol abuse and dependency on the body
  • The development of alcoholism
  • Overview of main categories of common drugs of abuse
  • Short- and long-term effects of various drugs
  • Dependency and withdrawal

Day 2  Basic counselling skills

  • Basic principles and skills of counselling
  • Model of change and the characteristics of the various stages
  • Structuring and to preparing for the interview
  • The concept of screening
  • Treatment options and other support structures available
  • The process of constructive confrontation
  • Roles of the family and children in trying to cope with a substance abusing family member
  • Survival roles of children in alcoholic homes

Day 3  Basic counselling skills

  • Guidelines for family members in dealing constructively with substance abuse in the family
  • Elements of brief intervention
  • Relapse  and relapse prevention
  • The characteristics of groupwork
  • Support and aftercare groups

Dates and fees

Venue: Durbanville Nature Reserve/Bellville Library
Dates:  9 - 11 September 2009
Times:   09h00 – 16h00                 
PROVIDE OWN LUNCH

Course fees and payment arrangements

Bookings: Reinette Brand – 021 - 9454080
Email: sanca@sancawc.co.za

Please note:
Payments can be made in cash, by cheque or via electronic transfers payable to SANCA Western Cape.
Course fees are fully payable by the first day on which the course commences.

Banking details available on request

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