Substance Abuse CE Courses Mental Health CE Courses Healthcare CE Courses Behavioral Technicians CAP/CAC/MCAP

Harm Reduction

Leesa M. Robertson
4 hours

Harm reduction is a compassionate and evidence-based approach that focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of substance use and risky behaviors rather than solely emphasizing abstinence.  For mental health and substance abuse professionals, understanding harm reduction is crucial because it fosters a nonjudgmental, client-centered approach that builds trust, promotes engagement in care, and ultimately enhances treatment outcomes. By integrating harm reduction principles, professionals can better support individuals in making safer choices, improving their quality of life, and accessing resources that promote long-term health and recovery.

This course will award 4 continuing education hours.

Course Objectives

  1. Define the core principles and philosophy of harm reduction in the context of substance use and risky behaviors.
  2. Explain how harm reduction differs from abstinence-only models while complementing recovery-oriented care
  3. Identify evidence-based harm reduction strategies that reduce health risks and improve client safety.
  4. Demonstrate how to apply nonjudgmental, client-centered approaches to build trust and engagement.
  5. Evaluate the role of harm reduction in improving treatment outcomes and long-term recovery pathways.
  6. Integrate harm reduction principles into clinical practice to support clients in making safer, healthier choices.

Course Author

Leesa M. Robertson, M.Ed., CAP, LMHC

Ms. Robertson, M.Ed., CAP, LMHC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. She is credentialed in alcohol and other drug counseling.

Beginning her career in the hospital setting, working in admissions, on the 24-hour unit, inpatient and IOP for both adults and adolescents, she went on to supervise a group of clinicians that went into medical-surgical hospitals to assess and place patients. She went into the outpatient setting, working with adults and families. Throughout her career, Ms. Robertson has focused on training and education through presenting live and authored coursework.

Information

  • Relevance: This course is relevant for mental health and substance abuse professionals to work with individuals to minimize the negative consequences of substance use and risky behaviors rather than solely emphasizing abstinence. 
  • Content Level: Intermediate
  • Course Format: This course is offered as a self-paced distance learning format (reading-based online activity)
  • System Requirements: This course is offered online. Internet connection required.
  • Course Completion Information: To earn continuing education credit, professionals must register and pay the fee for the course.  They must read the content and demonstrate understanding by earning a minimum score of 70 percent on testing materials.  The certificate of completion will be able to be downloaded after the above is completed. Refunds will be granted upon request with the withdrawal of credit for the course. For questions, concerns, or to request special accommodations, please call 866-863-4225 or email ContactUs@BaysideCEU.com.
  • CEBroker Course ID: 1327728
  • Credit Hours: 4
Leesa M. Robertson
4 hours
This course is relevant for mental health and substance abuse professionals to work with individuals to minimize the negative consequences of substance use and risky behaviors rather than solely emphasizing abstinence. 
Add to cart $26.00