Are You Prepared to Talk With Patients About Alcohol?

“Are You Prepared to Talk with Patients About Alcohol?” is designed to enhance psychologists and other mental health professionals ability to discuss their patients’ alcohol use with them. This presentation covers the significant impact of heavy drinking on mental health and provides evidence-based approaches for screening, assessment, brief advice, and tailored therapies. The presentation addresses the continuum of alcohol use, the prevalence of alcohol use disorder (AUD), the many common comorbid mental health conditions, and the importance of overcoming stigma to facilitate open conversations about alcohol and acceptance of treatment. Additionally, it explains brain changes in addiction and recovery, highlights the benefits of medications for AUD, and encourages collaboration with prescribers to provide comprehensive care. Patient resources are also provided, equipping therapists with the knowledge and tools needed to support their patients effectively.

• Recognize the continuum and impact of unhealthy alcohol use, to include the prevalence and health effects of heavy drinking and alcohol use disorder (AUD), and how common mental health comorbidities can complicate diagnoses and treatment outcomes.
• Identify evidence-based alcohol screening and follow up approaches including efficient and validated screening and assessment tools, how to deliver brief advice, and a range of evidence-based therapies.
• Discuss the potential benefits of medications treating AUD and how to integrate these non-addicting medications into treatment plans to support patient recovery.

• Laura Kwako, PhD
• Thekla Brumder Ross, PsyD

This webinar is in collaboration with the National Institute of Health and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.