Pre-requisites

CN510 Introduction to Counselling

Co-requisites

None.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:

• Discuss compulsive and addictive patterns of behavior differentiating theory-informed from media perspectives

• Examine the causes and effects of substance abuse in general and in relation to specific substances

• Evaluate specific intervention strategies related to substance abuse and other addictive and compulsive behaviours

• Critically review the social and cultural roots of addictive behaviours and the relationship of addictive behaviours and substance abuse to special groups from theoretical and Christian perspectives

Unit Description

Australian figures for the incidence of substance abuse are high and cause for concern due to the impact not just on individuals but also on families, groups and communities. Students are introduced to the complexity of substance abuse and problems related to addictive behaviours in order to develop a well informed and critical stance towards prevailing judgments shaped by social media. Students will examine the issues and research findings surrounding addictive behaviours and compulsions and the theory and practice of working with clients who struggle with these issues. Recent and local community based approaches to the treatment of gambling will receive particular attention because they incorporate the research findings on the importance of restoring a sense of connection and purpose. AA and Christian approaches will also be examined and explored.

Topics

1. A systemic view of addictions
2. Patterns of addictive and compulsive behaviours
3. Definitions and origins of drugs and psychoactive drugs and effects
4. Factors in drug using behaviour
5. When use is abuse, including DSM-V criteria
6. Pornography use & Sexual addiction
7. Gambling
8. Other addictions and compulsions
9. Co-morbidity
10. Introduction to strategies for intervention
11. Holistic approaches to intervention
12. Counselor and counselling issues of direct relevance to addiction

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Unit offerings

Face to face: Semester 2, 2026 (Every 2nd Year (Even), Semester 2)

Please note

The Unit Offerings listed above are a guide only and the timetable for any year is the final authority. The College may vary offerings based on demand, regulatory requirements, continual improvement processes or other conditions.

This unit may be available in different modes of delivery i.e. online and face-to-face as listed above. The unit content will not differ between these modes of delivery. There will possibly be a difference in the schedule and/or the prescribed assessment tasks, however both will cover and assess the same content.