Substance Use Disorder Initiative

The West Virginia Council of Churches offers two types of substance abuse trainings:  Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral, and Treatment (SBIRT) and Motivational Interviewing.  The first training, Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral, and Treatment (SBIRT), is geared towards persons in congregations or the community who are interested in learning about substance abuse and how to refer persons for treatment.  Topics covered include:

  • What is addiction?
  • What kinds of behaviors accompany substance abuse and addiction?
  • How does addiction affect families and others?
  • How can I better cope with a loved one or acquaintance who is abusing substances?
  • What resources are available for those who are struggling with addiction?

The training is two and a half hours and is taught by James Matney, M.S. Psychology and an Alcohol and Drug Counselor
There are 1.5 CEU’s for this training.

Motivation Interviewing is an evidence-based form of collaborative conversation to strengthen a person’s motivation and commitment to change. It is designed to increase an individual’s motivation for, and movement toward, a specific goal by eliciting and exploring the person’s own reasons for change within an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion.  This training works well for counselors, social workers, coaches, nurses, clergy, or anyone who is interested in helping support others make difficult changes in their lives.  The training develops awareness of the person-centered spirit of motivational interviewing, communication skills, and motivational interviewing strategies.  Through the training a number of successful outcomes are achieved, including:

  • Promoting motivation toward substance abuse recovery.
  • Improving the lives of the abuser’s friends and family.
  • Increasing the skills of healthcare professionals and clergy to deal with addictions.

Motivational Interviewing is a two day training and is taught by Rev. Dr. Sky Kershner of KPCC Counseling.

CEU’s for Motivational Interviewing:  Social Work – 13 hours, Nurses – 13 hours, LPC – 13 hours, Other – 13 contact hours