RM 04 Certificate in Pathways to Change: Alcohol and Other Drug Support Skills

This course equips individuals with the necessary skills and 

Pathways to Change: Alcohol and Other Drug Support Skills helps learners build the knowledge, confidence and professional awareness needed to support people affected by alcohol and other drugs.

The course explores current issues in the alcohol and other drugs sector, including the health, social, emotional and community impacts of substance use. Learners examine key models of support, including harm minimisation, abstinence-based approaches, 12 Step programs, cognitive behavioural approaches and bio-psycho-social models.

A strong focus is placed on working without judgement. Learners are encouraged to reflect on their own values and attitudes, understand access and equity principles, and apply respectful, client-centred practice when supporting people with alcohol and other drug concerns.

This course is suitable for learners working or preparing to work in counselling, community services, mental health, telephone support, case work, peer support or related helping roles. The learner guide content covers AOD sector issues, treatment models, harm minimisation, access and equity, stakeholder consultation and the importance of non-judgemental practice.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• understand current issues affecting alcohol and other drugs work
• recognise the health, social, emotional and community impacts of alcohol and other drug use
• describe key alcohol and other drug support models, including harm minimisation, abstinence-based approaches, 12 Step programs, cognitive behavioural approaches and bio-psycho-social models
• explain the role of harm minimisation in reducing alcohol and other drug related harm
• recognise the importance of access, equity, fairness and human rights in service delivery
• identify key stakeholders in the alcohol and other drugs sector, including clients, families, health services, community agencies and justice services
• gather and use sector information in line with organisational policies and procedures
• reflect on personal values, attitudes and assumptions about alcohol and drug use
• work with clients in a respectful, non-judgemental and client-centred way
• apply organisational values, policies and procedures when supporting people affected by alcohol and other drugs
• recognise barriers that may prevent people from accessing support
• identify when referral, collaboration or additional support may be required
• support safer, more informed and more respectful responses to people affected by alcohol and other drugs