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Live Webinar

Challenges & Interventions for SUDs and Schizophrenia as Co-Occurring Disorders

George Gurrera, RN, LCSW-C, MPA
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Information

Date & Time

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

  • Describe Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSDs) in the context of severe mental illness in the U.S.

  • Explain SSDs as a brain disease and their hallmark signs and symptoms, including the four phases of Schizophrenia

  • Select an appropriate diagnosis with knowledge of the DSM-5-TR’s other SSDs and psychotic disorders, the differential diagnosis of those disorders, and Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder

  • Recognize the complexity inherent in the biopsychosocial assessment and treatment planning for those with SSDs and other psychotic disorders in the context of SUD treatment

  • Identify evidence-based psychotherapeutic, psychosocial, and psychopharmacological interventions

Educational Goal

The educational goals for this presentation are to enhance clinical competence, foster a deeper understanding of the complexities involved, and promote more effective, compassionate care in working with individuals diagnosed with both an SSD and SUD(s).

Description

This presentation will explore the challenges faced by individuals who experience both Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSDs) and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Additionally, this presentation will highlight integrated treatment approaches that address both mental health and addiction simultaneously as well as promote more effective, compassionate patient care. More specifically, attendees will gain an understanding of SSDs as severe mental illnesses, including their prevalence, impact on individuals and society, and classification as brain diseases. Attendees will also learn the importance of providing compassionate care, implementing recovery-oriented approaches like the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), and effectively utilizing community-based interventions such as Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams.

Target Audience

  • Addiction Professional
  • Counselor
  • Marriage & Family Therapist
  • Psychologist
  • Social Worker

Presenters

George Gurrera, RN, LCSW-C, MPA
George Gurrera, RN-BC, LCSW-C, MPA is a healthcare leader with over 20 years of behavioral health care experience. He currently serves as the Senior Director of Quality, Compliance, & Risk Management at Ashley Addiction Treatment, where he oversees the organization’s Health Information Management team in addition to the quality improvement and compliance programs. George is a University of Maryland School of Nursing graduate, where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Clinical Nurse Leader. He also holds Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration degrees from West Virginia University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Bethany College. George is both a Registered Nurse and Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical in the state of Maryland.

Financially Sponsored By

  • Ashley Addiction Treatment