Addiction & Recovery 101 is a foundational training designed to build understanding of substance use disorders and recovery through evidence-based, trauma-informed, and person-centered approaches. This session provides an in-depth look at the disease model of addiction, diagnostic criteria, risk factors, and signs and symptoms across physical, psychological, and behavioral domains. It also explores motivational interviewing techniques, harm reduction strategies, and the role of lived experience in peer support work.

Participants will gain knowledge of the stages of change, recovery-oriented systems of care (ROSC), and the impact of stigma on treatment and recovery outcomes. The training empowers peer recovery specialists and other frontline helpers to support people with compassion, cultural humility, and practical tools that promote safety and self-determination.

Learning Objectives

• Define addiction, substance use disorder, and physical dependence, and explain key distinctions.
• Describe the diagnostic criteria for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in the DSM-5.
• Differentiate between the disease model and behavioral models of addiction.
• Identify risk factors and signs/symptoms associated with SUD.
• Explain the stages of change and motivational approaches to behavior change.
• Recognize the principles and benefits of harm reduction, including medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).
• Understand the impact of stigma on individuals with SUD and identify strategies to address it.
• Describe the core competencies and ethical principles guiding peer recovery support.
• Apply motivational interviewing skills in peer-based interactions.
• Demonstrate the importance of lived experience and strategic sharing in recovery-oriented care.