Course Code: REL-BHC-0-WIESUDH
Hours: 1
Type: Online Course
Content Expiration Date: 12/31/2028
Learning Objectives:
Explain how homelessness and substance use intersect, including key risk factors and barriers to care.
Recognize housing solutions that support recovery for individuals with substance use disorders who are experiencing homelessness.
Identify key approaches to providing care for people experiencing homelessness with substance use disorders.
Outline:
Section 1: Understanding the Overlap Between Homelessness and Substance Use Disorders
Overview of Homelessness and Substance Use Disorders
Reggie’s Story: When Survival Comes First
Homelessness
Substance Use Disorders
Key Data on Homelessness and SUDs
Understanding Risk and Barriers to Care
Risk Factors for Homelessness and SUDs
Barriers to Recovery and Housing
Review
Key Takeaways
Section 2: Housing Solutions That Support Recovery
Housing and Recovery
Bree’s Housing Options
Housing First Model
Supportive Housing Programs
Recovery Housing
A Note on Wet, Damp, and Sober Housing
Review
Key Takeaways
Section 3: Approaches to Providing Care to People Experiencing Homelessness With SUDs
General Approaches to Care
Foundational Values in Care
Trauma-Informed Care
Culturally Responsive Care
Service and Treatment Models
Broad Frameworks
Specific Program Models
Treatment Interventions
Engagement and Access Interventions
Harm Reduction and Practical Support
Clinical Interventions for SUDs
Review
Key Takeaways
Section 4: Conclusion
Course Summary
Course Contributors
Resources
Hotlines
References
Writer: Bridgett Ross, PsyD
Bridgett Ross, Psy.D. received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Philosophy from Boston College and then her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University. She is a licensed psychologist in California and was in private practice for 13 years treating various issues including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, grief/loss, and issues around self-concept, identity, and attachment. Having supervised pre-licensed and licensed clinicians, she maintains an interest in professional issues in the field of psychology. Dr. Ross’ training and work history include Children’s Hospital Chadwick Center for Children and Families, Kaiser Permanente, Alvarado Parkway Institute, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, which informed her focus on providing evidence-based trauma treatment to diverse populations.
Subject Matter Expert: Sheila Hughes, MA, LPC, LAC
Sheila Hughes holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and maintains dual licensure in Professional Counseling and Addiction Counseling. With extensive experience in trauma-informed care, substance use disorder treatment, and advocacy for underserved populations, Sheila is particularly dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and co-occurring mental health challenges. Her clinical and community work emphasizes evidence-based, culturally responsive approaches to behavioral health. As a subject matter expert, Sheila contributes to training, curriculum development, and policy efforts aimed at improving access and quality of care for vulnerable communities.
Target Audience:
The target audience for this course is: Behavioral Health Counselors; Care and Case Managers; Marriage and Family Therapists; Nursing Personnel; Psychologists; Social Workers; Substance Use and Behavioral Disorder Counselors; in the following settings: Behavioral Health and Intellectual Developmental Disability, Behavioral Health: Community Services, Behavioral Health: Crisis Services, Behavioral Health: Intensive Services (IRTS), Behavioral Health: Outpatient Services, Behavioral Health: Residential Services, Behavioral Health: Social Rehabilitation Facilities, Behavioral Health: Substance Use Services, Behavioral Health: Substance Use Services: In-Home, Children and Youth: Social Service Agency, Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs), Hospitals: Acute, Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities/ Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), Substance Use Treatment: Outpatient, Substance Use Treatment: Residential Facility.
Relias Learning will be transparent in disclosing if any commercial support, sponsorship or co-providership is present prior to the learner completing the course.
Relias Learning has a grievance policy in place to facilitate reports of dissatisfaction. Relias Learning will make every effort to resolve each grievance in a mutually satisfactory manner. In order to report a complaint or grievance please contact Relias Learning at support@reliaslearning.com.
All courses offered by Relias Learning, LLC are developed from a foundation of diversity, inclusiveness, and a multicultural perspective. Knowledge, values and awareness related to cultural competency are infused throughout the course content.
To earn continuing education credit for this course you must achieve a passing score of 80% on the post-test and complete the course evaluation.
Course Delivery Method and Format
Asynchronous Distance Learning with interactivity which includes quizzes with questions/answers, and posttests.