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Scientific Principles of Substance Use and Co-occurring Disorders - Florida Certification Board - CAC
Scientific Principles of Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders is an in-depth, content-specific course designed to meet the 50-hour Scientific Principles of Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders training requirement for the Florida Certification Board (FCB) Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) initial application. This course provides a comprehensive examination of the biological, psychological, and social foundations of substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Content emphasizes the neurobiology of addiction, brain chemistry and reward pathways, tolerance and dependence, genetic and environmental risk factors, and the impact of substances on cognition, behavior, and emotional regulation. Learners explore common co-occurring disorders, including mood, anxiety, trauma-related, and psychotic disorders, with attention to shared risk factors, symptom overlap, and clinical implications. The course integrates current research, evidence-based models of addiction, and the progression of substance use disorders across the lifespan, while addressing stigma, chronic disease perspectives, and recovery science. This training ensures CAC candidates develop a scientifically grounded understanding of substance use and co-occurring disorders necessary for ethical, informed, and effective practice in substance use treatment settings, consistent with Florida Certification Board standards.
This course will award 50 continuing education hours.
Please see the board approval box for course approvals.Course Objectives
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Explain the neurobiological mechanisms involved in the development and maintenance of substance use disorders.
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Describe the role of brain chemistry, reward pathways, tolerance, and dependence in addiction.
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Identify genetic, environmental, and psychosocial risk factors associated with substance use disorders.
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Summarize the effects of commonly used substances on cognition, behavior, and emotional regulation.
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Differentiate between major categories of co-occurring mental health disorders and their clinical features.
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Examine shared risk factors and interactions between substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions.
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Apply scientific models of addiction to understand disease progression and recovery processes.
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Recognize the impact of substance use and co-occurring disorders across the lifespan.
Course Author
Information
- Relevance: The relevant target audience for this course includes individuals seeking initial certification as a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) who require scientifically grounded, Florida Certification Board–aligned training in substance use and co-occurring disorders.
- 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: NA
- Credit Hours: 50
The relevant target audience for this course includes individuals seeking initial certification as a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) who require scientifically grounded, Florida Certification Board–aligned training in substance use and co-occurring disorders.