Substance Use Disorder 101: Understand, Assess, and Treat

Registration + CEs $299.00

Training Dates

  • Day 1 - December 15, 2026, from 9:00AM to 12:00 PM (PST) 
  • Day 2 - December 16, 2026, from 9:00AM to 12:00 PM (PST)

Training Description

This introductory course is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of substance use disorders (SUDs), addiction, and recovery. This offering explores substance use through an evidence-informed and person-centered lens while addressing the complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that influence substance use and recovery outcomes. 

Participants will gain insight into the science of addiction, common substances and their effects, risk and protective factors, and the impact of stigma on individuals, families, and communities. The course also introduces key concepts that address assessment, trauma-informed care, co-occurring conditions, harm reduction strategies, and pathways to treatment and long-term recovery. 

Through interactive discussions, real-world examples, and practical applications, attendees will strengthen their understanding of how to recognize signs and symptoms of substance use disorders and learn effective approaches to treatment and care. 

Whether you are a healthcare professional, educator, social worker, peer support specialist, caregiver, or simply interested in learning more, this course provides practical knowledge and tools you can apply immediately. 

What you'll learn:

  • Understanding substance use disorders and addiction basics
  • Common substances and their effects 
  • Risk factors, stigma, and trauma-informed approaches 
  • Treatment and recovery pathways 
  • Strategies for supporting individuals and communities 

Upon completing the live virtual training, you will receive a Certificate of Attendance for attending the training.

Trainer: Kristin Dempsey, EdD., LMFT, LPCC

Delivery Method: Live Virtual Via Zoom

Prerequisites: None

CE Hours: Pending Approval 6

Target Audience: Healthcare professionals, counselors, social workers, peer support workers, educators, students, community members, and anyone seeking greater understanding and awareness.

There is no known commercial support for this webinar.

All training materials will be provided the week prior to the training.


Refund Policy

By registering for this training, you agree to be responsible for the full registration fee, regardless of attendance. Refunds will be honored if a written cancellation request is received at least five (5) business days prior to the first day of the training. All approved refunds will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee, which will be deducted from the total refund amount. Please allow up to six (6) weeks from the date of the cancellation request for refunds to be processed.

Continuing Education

All activities in this training are offered for continuing education credit excluding any breaks. CE Certificates of Completion will be emailed within two weeks of processing your completed online evaluation.

PSYCHOLOGISTS - APA

California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions (CIBHS) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

CCAPP

CIBHS is an approved provider for California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) continuing education units (Provider number 5-98-408-0227).

CADTP

CIBHS is an approved provider for California Association of DUI Treatment Programs (CADTP) continuing education credits. CIBHS maintains responsibility for this program/course and its content. (Provider number 204)

LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs

CIBHS is an approved provider for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) to sponsor continuing education. CIBHS maintains responsibility for this program/course and its content. Course meets the qualifications for TBD hours of continuing education credit for LMFTs, LPCCs, LEPs, and/or LCSWs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. (Provider Number70799)

RN

CIBHS is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider Number CEP17140 for TBD contact hours.


Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists

Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists are eligible to earn TBD continuing education hours as CIBHS is a CalMHSA-approved CE training provider.


California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 8102. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. Participants are responsible for verifying with their state licensing board that NBCC Continuing Education (CE) credits are accepted.

For questions, comments, or grievances about this CE course content or delivery, or to request special accommodations, please email Robin Texeira at rtexeira@cibhs.org.