An Introduction to Medication for Alcohol Dependence

New medications for addiction treatment can significantly improve treatment outcomes for many patients, especially when combined with counseling, support and aftercare.

This free online course helps addiction treatment counselors understand how these medications work with the brain mechanisms involved in alcohol dependence, and how medications can be part of a comprehensive treatment program that helps patients regain control over their lives.

Author's Welcome and Introduction
An outline of this program from Carlo C. DiClemente, PhD

Main Presentation, Part 1
An overview of alcohol dependence, focusing on the epidemiology of alcohol dependence, diagnosing alcohol dependence and misuse, and the effects of alcohol on the brain. We also introduce medications for alcohol dependence.

Main Presentation, Part 2
Psychosocial interventions for the treatment of alcohol dependence; how medication and psychosocial intervention impacts abstinence; and patient readiness for change.

Case Studies
Examples of real-life situations that may be faced when counseling patients for alcohol abuse, designed to illustrate how both psychosocial support and medications can work together to help patients maintain abstinence.

Resource List (PDF, 25K)
General resources for counselors looking for the most up-to-date information on dealing with alcohol dependence and other addictive disorders.

Patient Education Materials (PDF, 372K)
These full-color materials are designed to educate and assist patients with alcohol dependence.