Harm Reduction

Course Overview:

This self-paced, online training course is designed to equip learners with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to apply harm-reducing behaviors related to substance use in both the workplace and the broader community. Learners will explore how societal views on substance use have been shaped by stigma and other factors, which are often the greatest barriers to clients’ well-being. The course emphasizes the importance of recognizing myths about substance use, and the role of practitioners in providing client-centered, supportive services and advocacy.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, learners will:

1. Understand the impact of historical and contemporary substance use policies, including drug laws and the War on Drugs, on individuals and communities.
2. Gain insight into the complexities of substance use, including the relationship between substance use and social determinants of health (e.g., poverty, homelessness, trauma, and stigma).
3. Learn how to apply harm-reduction strategies within their professional roles to support individuals who use substances.
4. Recognize the importance of creating supportive, client-centered services with an emphasis on building therapeutic relationships.
5. Understand key health promotion and social justice concepts underpinning harm reduction and their relevance to helping professionals.
6. Develop strategies for overdose awareness and prevention.

Course Outcomes:

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

1. Articulate the historical context and contemporary conversations around substance use, drug laws, and the effects of stigma on people who use substances.
2. Understand the multifaceted reasons behind substance use, and how social determinants of health influence these behaviors.
3. Apply client-centered approaches to help clients build trust and therapeutic relationships.
4. Advocate for and challenge substance use stigma in a respectful and assertive manner.
5. Prepare an overdose prevention plan tailored to their agency or workplace.
6. Understand and apply harm-reduction practices in their professional roles.

Target Audience:

This course is intended for all helping professionals, including shelter staff and management, healthcare service providers, boards of directors, and anyone in the greater community who seeks to understand and support marginalized populations affected by substance use.

Time Commitment:

Participants should expect to invest between 6 and 9 hours to complete the course, depending on prior knowledge. To receive proof of completion, all course requirements must be fulfilled within 30 days of enrollment.