The Promise of Harm Reduction Therapy

• Harm reduction therapy and as a social movement
• What is harm reduction therapy and how to use it
•  Key benefits of using harm reduction
• Overview of the types of interventions that help reduce harm
• Components of harm reduction therapy based on initial grounded research

Integrating Motivational Interviewing Strategies into Harm Reduction Therapy

• Definition of motivational interviewing and history of the approach in SUD treatment
• The “spirit” of MI and the importance of a trauma-informed approach to build trust
• The skills of MI – OARS and how the OARS build trust, choice, and empowerment
• The process of MI – The roadmap that can assist clinicians in when and how to move forward with harm reduction
• Case study demonstration: Client ambivalence about substance use in a harm reduction conversation.

Key Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Strategies for Harm Reduction Therapy

• Understand ACT and how ACT can assist in reducing distress and building hope
• The ACT “hexaflex” and its role in promoting psychological flexibility
• The importance of identify and building values in recovery
• Case study demonstration: Clinicians will use ACT defusion technique to help client manage their distress over recurrent thoughts about using.
• Case study demonstration: How to help client move toward taking steps (building basic goals) that move them toward their values.

Harm Reduction Approach for Self-Destructive Patterns & Maladaptive Habits

• Conceptualization and sample intervention for:
• Non-suicidal self-injury
• Aggressive interpersonal interactions
• Avoidance
• Procrastination

Harm Reduction Approach for Substance Use, Abuse & Process Addictions Treatment

• Harm Reduction for SUDs
• Conceptualization
• MI Interventions for SUD
• ACT interventions for SUD

Harm Reduction with ACT & MI for Repetitive Compulsive Behaviors (Process-Based)

• Gaming
• Online Shopping
• Pornography Use

Introduction to Behavioral Addictions 

• Overview of Behavioral Addictions: Definition, types, and examples (e.g., gambling, internet addiction, shopping addiction). 
• Epidemiology and Prevalence: Statistics and demographics. 
• Impact on Individuals and Society: Health, social, and economic consequences. 

Theories and Models of Behavioral Addictions 

• Biopsychosocial Model: Understanding the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. 
• Disease Model vs. Behavioral Model: Comparing different perspectives. 

Assessment and Diagnosis 

• Screening Tools and Questionnaires: Commonly used tools for identifying behavioral addictions. 
• Diagnostic Criteria: DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria for behavioral addictions. 
• Case Studies: Practical examples and discussion. 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Principles 

• Introduction to ACT: Origins, core principles, and goals. 
• Psychological Flexibility: Understanding and fostering psychological flexibility. 
• Hexaflex Model: Exploration of the six core processes of ACT (Cognitive Defusion, Acceptance, Contact with the Present Moment, Self-as-Context, Values, Committed Action). 

Applying ACT to Behavioral Addictions 

• Assessment and Case Conceptualization: Tailoring ACT interventions to individual clients. 
• Mindfulness and Acceptance Strategies: Techniques for increasing awareness and acceptance. 
• Values and Committed Action: Identifying values and promoting actions that align with those values. 

Case Studies and Practical Applications 

• Case Studies: Applying ACT principles to real-life scenarios of behavioral addictions. 
• Prevention and Relapse Management: Using ACT to prevent relapse and maintain recovery. 
• Resources and Referrals: Providing support and guidance for ongoing care.