This training provides an accessible, evidence-informed introduction to harm reduction principles and their application within youth and young adult substance use services. Drawing on themes from Undoing Drugs and contemporary harm reduction research, this training will explore the historical and political context of the War on Drugs, how criminalization shapes service delivery, and the evolution of harm reduction as both a philosophy and public health practice.
Special emphasis will be placed on translating harm reduction into youth-centered engagement strategies—particularly for young people navigating trauma, systems involvement, or abstinence-based service environments. Participants will learn practical tools for supporting safety, autonomy, and connection while fostering an ethos shift toward compassion-based care.
Intended Audience:
Behavioral health professionals, social workers, clinicians, youth workers, case managers, educators, harm reduction workers, outreach staff, recovery coaches, program directors, and any providers serving youth and young adults who use substances.
Objectives:
Participants will be able to:
- Identify at least three key historical milestones in the rise of harm reduction.
- Articulate two ways in which criminalization shapes youth substance use patterns and service access.
- Demonstrate three concrete strategies for discussing substance use with youth using a harm reduction lens.
- Assess a sample service scenario and determine opportunities to integrate harm reduction–informed practices.
- Create a brief, youth-centered plan to reduce risk and increase safety for young people actively using substances.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS:
2.00 hours of Continuing Education will be offered for Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors, (LADC I, LADCII, and LADC Assistants), Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (CAC/CADC), and Nurses (RN/LPN).
2.000 hours of Contiuing Eduation for Social Work (SW). Attendees must have their camera on for the training, as well as participate in all breakout sessions.
2.00 hours of Continuing Education will be offered for Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), all continuing education for LMHCs in MA must be approved by a recognized entity, NBCC, National Board of Certified Counselors is recognized by the MA Division of Professional Licensure Board of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions.
ADEPT Educational Institute, Inc., is recognized by the National Board for Certified Counselors to offer continuing education for National Certified Counselors (NCC). AdCare Educational Institute, Inc. is an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEPTM) and may offer NBCC-approved clock hours for events that meet NBCC requirements. The ACEP solely is responsible for all aspects of the program.