Working with participants with AOD issues

Course Overview

This course provides a specialized framework for support workers assisting participants who experience Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) issues alongside their disability. It focuses on the customization of support strategies to address the complex interplay between substance use and various impairments, ensuring a non-judgmental, harm-reduction approach that aligns with NDIS quality and safety standards.

Participants will gain the confidence to recognize the signs of substance use, communicate effectively through a trauma-informed lens, and implement practical interventions that prioritize the participant’s health, goals, and rights.

What You’ll Learn

• Define the various categories of drugs and understand the physiological and psychological impact of AOD use.

• Analyze the “dual diagnosis” intersection, exploring how AOD issues can mask or exacerbate disability symptoms.

• Identify the early warning signs of problematic substance use and its impact on a participant’s NDIS goals.

• Master specialized communication techniques, such as motivational interviewing and de-escalation.

• Execute harm-reduction strategies and practical interventions to improve participant safety and wellbeing.

• Navigate crisis management protocols for incidents such as overdoses or acute intoxication.

• Develop proactive action plans that integrate AOD support into broader disability service delivery.

• Apply ethical decision-making and rigorous documentation practices for NDIS compliance.

Course Modules

• Understand AOD

• Examine the Intersection of Disability and AOD

• Recognise and Respond to AOD-Related Issues

• Effective Communication and Engagement Strategies

• Utilise Support Strategies and Practical Interventions

• Respond to Incidents and Crises

• Analyse Real-Life Scenarios

• Engage in Group Discussions

• Develop Action Plans

Designed For

• Disability support workers and outreach practitioners.

• NDIS providers and team leaders managing complex “dual diagnosis” cases.

• Residential care staff and youth workers.

• Support coordinators looking to integrate AOD services into NDIS plans.

• Community health workers and advocacy professionals.