Addressing Stigma and Shame in Addiction Treatment Training

This course is available 24/7, allowing you to read or listen at your convenience. Complete the course and take a short quiz to receive your certificate immediately. Enjoy one full year of access to the materials.

  • 3 CE hours
  • NBCC Approved
  • NAADAC Approved
  • ASWB ACE Approved
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Mental Health CE Approved by ASWB, NBCC, NAADAC & More

Accepted by most state boards and reportable through CEBroker. Check Board Approvals for details.

NBCC approved CEUs
ASWB CEUs
NAADAC CEUs
CE Broker by Propelus

Course curriculum

    1. About the Course

    2. Copyright Notice for Therapy Trainings™

    1. Definition and Differentiation of Stigma vs. Shame

    2. Historical Perspectives on Addiction and Stigmatization

    3. The Role of Stigma and Shame in Society’s Perception of Addiction

    4. References

    1. Types of Stigma

    2. Sources of Stigma

    3. Psychological and Social Impact of Stigma

    4. How Stigma Affects Treatment Seeking and Recovery

    5. References

    1. Differentiating Shame from Guilt

    2. Development of Shame in the Context of Addiction

    3. Neuroscience of Shame: Brain Mechanisms and Responses

    4. The Role of Shame in Relapse and Recovery

    5. References

    1. Barriers to Accessing Treatment

    2. Impact on Treatment Engagement and Retention

    3. Influence on Self-Efficacy and Recovery Motivation

    4. Long-Term Outcomes and Quality of Life

    5. References

    1. Education and Training for Healthcare Providers

    2. Creating a Supportive and Non-Judgmental Environment

    3. Implementing Anti-Stigma Policies and Practices

    4. Addressing Implicit Bias and Stereotypes

    5. References

About this course

  • $45.00
  • 46 lessons
  • 0 hours of video content

Therapy Trainings™ Presents

3 CE Hours of Addressing Stigma and Shame in Addiction Treatment Training

This text-based course was developed in 2024 for mental health professionals.


Target audience: Mental Health Professionals

Content Level: beginning to expert


Course Overview:
This course is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand, identify, and address stigma and shame in addiction treatment. Learners will explore the origins and impacts of stigma and shame, learn strategies to mitigate these barriers, and develop compassionate approaches to support individuals on their recovery journey.


Course Objectives: 

At the end of the course, you will learn to: 

  1. explain the impact of stigma and shame on individuals with addiction;
  2. identify barriers created by stigma and shame in addiction treatment and recovery; 
  3. apply strategies to reduce stigma and foster a supportive, non-judgmental environment in treatment; 
  4. use therapeutic techniques to address and alleviate shame in clients, and 
  5. advocate for systemic changes to reduce stigma at both community and policy levels.


About the author

Matt Grammer, LPCC-S is the founder of Therapy Trainings™, Kentucky Counseling Center®, and Counseling Now®. He has over a decade of experience as a clinician, private practice operator, and consultant. He holds dual Masters degrees in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. KY LPCC-S #164069


Consulting Team

Social Work Consultant is Alicia Trager, LCSW

Marriage and Family Therapy Consultant is Matt White, MFT

Psychology consultant is Brett Donnelly, Psy D. 


Course completion & CE info

Course completion requirements: To earn CE credit, professionals must purchase the course, read/listen to the presentation, and complete the posttest (with a passing score of 80%) and course evaluation. Posttests may be retaken as many times as you need. Certificates of completion will be emailed immediately after course completion and can be accessed from your account anytime.



This course has been approved by Therapy Trainings™, as a NAADAC Approved Education Provider, for 3 CE hours. NAADAC provider #270493. Therapy Trainings™ is responsible for all aspects of its programming.


Therapy Trainings™ has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7439. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Therapy Trainings™ is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.


Therapy Trainings™, #1945, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 12/6/2024-12/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3 continuing education credits.


State Specific Board Approvals:


Thanks to our national and state accreditations, all of our CE courses are approved by the boards listed below—provided the content is relevant to your profession or unless otherwise noted in the course description.

We regularly monitor state board requirements, but for the most up-to-date and accurate information, please refer to your licensing board’s official website.

The list below reflects the boards that currently recognize our CE credits based on existing state regulations.


Alabama

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Alaska

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Arizona

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


Arkansas

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


California

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Colorado

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Connecticut

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Delaware

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Florida

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Georgia

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Hawaii

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Idaho

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Illinois

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • SW Board


Indiana

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Iowa

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Kansas

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Kentucky

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Louisiana

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Maine

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Maryland

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Massachusetts

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Michigan

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


Minnesota

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Mississippi

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Missouri

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


Montana

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Nebraska

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Nevada

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


New Hampshire

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

New Jersey

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

New Mexico

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

North Carolina

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

North Dakota

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Ohio

  • Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Oklahoma

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Oregon

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Pennsylvania

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Rhode Island

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


South Carolina

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


South Dakota

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board

Tennessee

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

  • Psychology Board


Texas

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Utah

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Vermont

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Virginia

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Washington

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

West Virginia

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board

Wisconsin

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


Wyoming

  • Counseling Board

  • Addiction Counseling Board

  • MFT Board

  • SW Board


System Requirements

Computer or mobile device with an internet connection.


For questions, concerns, or to request special accommodations, please email [email protected]


Frequently Asked Questions
You'll access all courses from your student dashboard in the menu after purchasing the unlimited subscription.
We have state and national approvals from NBCC, ASWB ACE, NAADAC, KY LPC, MFT, and SW Boards.
All on-demand CE courses are text-based and you can progress at your own pace. Once you've read the material, you'll complete a quiz and will receive a certificate of completion immediately.
Find your course and follow a few simple steps. Credit cards and Paypal payments are accepted. You'll gain access immediately.
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All trainings published by Therapy Trainings™ are on-demand and available 24/7. You have access to all courses as soon as you enroll.
We're here for you by email and look forward to helping you. Please contact us at [email protected]. Therapy Trainings™ takes pride in making students happy.

Addressing Stigma and Shame in Addiction Treatment Training: A Comprehensive Guide for Mental Health Professionals

Table of Contents

  • Introduction

  • Understanding Stigma and Shame in Addiction

  • The Impact of Stigma on Treatment Outcomes

  • Evidence-Based Approaches in Addiction Treatment

  • Case Studies and Real-World Applications

  • Practical Tools for Clinicians

  • Training Opportunities and Professional Development

  • Conclusion

Introduction

In the evolving landscape of mental health and addiction treatment, addressing stigma and shame remains one of the most crucial yet challenging aspects of providing effective care. This comprehensive guide explores how mental health professionals can enhance their practice through specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches that directly address these barriers to recovery. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or new to addiction treatment, understanding how to effectively combat stigma and shame is essential for improving patient outcomes.

Understanding Stigma and Shame in Addiction

The Dual Burden of Addiction

Individuals struggling with substance use disorders (SUDs) face not only the physical and psychological challenges of addiction but also the heavy burden of societal stigma and internalized shame. Research shows that stigma can be as damaging to recovery as the addiction itself, creating barriers to:

  • Seeking initial treatment

  • Maintaining engagement in recovery programs

  • Building support networks

  • Achieving long-term sobriety

Types of Stigma in Addiction

  1. Public Stigma: Societal attitudes and prejudices

  2. Self-Stigma: Internalized negative beliefs

  3. Structural Stigma: Institutional policies and practices

  4. Professional Stigma: Bias from healthcare providers

The Impact of Stigma on Treatment Outcomes

Research-Based Evidence

Recent studies have demonstrated the significant impact of stigma on treatment outcomes:

  • 60% of individuals with SUDs report experiencing discrimination in healthcare settings

  • Patients who experience stigma are 3x more likely to discontinue treatment

  • Self-stigma correlates with increased relapse rates

  • Professional stigma can lead to reduced quality of care

Barriers to Effective Treatment

Stigma creates multiple barriers that need to be addressed in professional training:

1. Access to Care

  • Delayed treatment seeking
  • Limited resource allocation
  • Insurance coverage issues

2. Quality of Care

  • Reduced empathy from providers
  • Incomplete assessment of needs
  • Limited treatment options

3. Treatment Adherence

  • Increased dropout rates
  • Reduced medication compliance
  • Limited engagement in therapy

Evidence-Based Approaches in Addiction Treatment

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a Core Framework

CBT provides an essential foundation for addressing stigma and shame in addiction treatment. Key components include:

1. Cognitive Restructuring

  • Identifying shame-based thoughts
  • Challenging stigmatizing beliefs
  • Developing self-compassion

2. Behavioral Activation

  • Building positive support networks
  • Engaging in meaningful activities
  • Creating recovery-oriented routines

3. Skills Development

  • Communication strategies
  • Boundary setting
  • Emotion regulation

Integration with Other Modalities

Effective treatment combines CBT with:

  • Motivational Interviewing

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

  • Trauma-Informed Care

  • Family Systems Therapy

Case Studies and Real-World Applications

Case Study 1: The Impact of Professional Training

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a licensed therapist with 10 years of experience, participated in advanced CBT training focused on addressing stigma in addiction treatment. After completing the program, she reported:

  • 40% increase in patient retention

  • Improved treatment outcomes

  • Greater job satisfaction

  • Enhanced ability to address complex cases

Case Study 2: Implementing Systemic Change

The Mountain View Recovery Center implemented a comprehensive staff training program on addressing stigma and shame. Results included:

  • 35% reduction in early treatment termination

  • Improved patient satisfaction scores

  • Better staff retention rates

  • Enhanced treatment outcomes

Practical Tools for Clinicians

Assessment Strategies

1. Validated Screening Tools

  • Internalized Stigma of Substance Abuse Scale
  • Shame Inventory
  • Treatment Barriers Questionnaire

2. Clinical Interview Techniques

  • Non-judgmental questioning
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Trauma-informed assessment

Intervention Techniques

1. Individual Interventions

  • Shame resilience protocols
  • Self-compassion exercises
  • Cognitive restructuring worksheets

2. Group Interventions

  • Peer support facilitation
  • Shame-reduction groups
  • Family education programs

Training Opportunities and Professional Development

Why Choose Advanced Training in Stigma-Focused CBT

Investing in specialized training through TherapyTrainings offers numerous benefits:

1. Enhanced Clinical Skills

  • Evidence-based intervention strategies
  • Advanced assessment techniques
  • Complex case management skills

2. Professional Growth

  • Certification opportunities
  • Specialization development
  • Network building

3. Practice Development

  • Expanded service offerings
  • Increased referral sources
  • Better patient outcomes

TherapyTrainings Advantage

Our comprehensive training program offers:

1. Flexible Learning Options

  • Online modules
  • Live supervision
  • Peer consultation groups

2. Practical Application

  • Real-world case studies
  • Role-play opportunities
  • Ongoing supervision

3. Professional Support

  • Expert consultation
  • Resource library
  • Community forums

The Impact of Professional Training

Benefits for Clinicians

1. Skill Enhancement

  • Advanced intervention techniques
  • Improved assessment abilities
  • Better treatment planning

2. Professional Development

  • Specialized certification
  • Increased referrals
  • Higher success rates

3. Personal Growth

  • Reduced burnout
  • Greater job satisfaction
  • Enhanced professional confidence

Benefits for Clients

1. Improved Outcomes

  • Higher recovery rates
  • Better engagement
  • Reduced relapse

2. Enhanced Experience

  • Greater trust in treatment
  • Reduced shame
  • Increased hope

Conclusion

Addressing stigma and shame in addiction treatment requires specialized training and ongoing professional development. Through evidence-based approaches like CBT, clinicians can significantly improve treatment outcomes and patient experiences. Investing in advanced training through TherapyTrainings.com provides the tools, knowledge, and support needed to excel in this critical area of mental health care.

Ready to enhance your clinical skills and improve patient outcomes? Enroll in our comprehensive CBT training program at TherapyTrainings.com. Use code STIGMA2024 for 15% off your first course.

You might also want to enhance your knowledge and skills on various aspects of mental health and therapy. Try exploring our catalogue of blogs or accredited courses. This way, you’ll stay updated on the latest trends in mental health and of our promos.