Pre-requisite Course(s)

COUN210 Microskills in Counselling and Psychotherapy

PSY110 Biological Bases of Behaviour

Course Aims

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and knowledge of counselling for addictive behaviours. Various perspectives on the phenomenon of addiction (e.g., biochemical, behavioural, existential, etc) will be explored. Students will obtain an overview of a broad spectrum of addictive behaviours including but not restricted to substance abuse.  A variety of approaches to supporting and treating persons working to overcome or reduce addictive behaviour will be covered. Issues regarding aetiology, treatment, and prevention of several types of addictive behaviour will be addressed. 

1. demonstrate an understanding of the major biopsychosocial principles and processes at work in the phenomenon of addiction;

 

2. display an understanding of different varieties of addictive behaviour;

 

3. demonstrate familiarity with a range of treatment approaches and interventions for different types of addiction and their roles within the overall counselling process;

 

4. demonstrate knowledge of preventive methods and factors relevant to addiction;

 

5. exhibit research proficiency in gathering and analysing data pertinent to the field of addiction; and

 

6. draw relevant theoretical connections and propose tentative therapeutic applications appropriate to Hong Kong's sociocultural milieu.