Program description: Session one will provide evidence-based information on the science of substance use and addiction. The second session will give a historic context for why we believe what we believe about substance use and how those beliefs have impacted our health and legal institutions, especially conventional treatment. You’ll come away with a much broader understanding of substance use health and addiction issues and, hopefully, a heightened understanding of the need for sweeping changes to drug policy and how we see and treat people who struggle with substance use and concurrent disorders.
Program Leader: Ben Goerner
Ben Goerner, BSW, a mental health and substance use clinician, is a retired counsellor with more than 30 years in the field. He worked specifically with youth for 15 years and with the general population for the rest of his career, including 10 years at a street-level health clinic working with people who struggled with lack of shelter and other resources on top of substance use and mental health concerns. He now advocates for drug policy reform and is active in providing accurate and evidence-based information to the general public.
Number of sessions: 2
Dates and time of session: Tuesdays, November 5 and 12 from 1:30pm – 3:00pm.
Program Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room (in-person only).
To register, please make your request to Sooke Region Lifelong Learning by email: sookeregionlifelonglearning@gmail.com
Sooke Region Lifelong Learning is a volunteer organization offering educational programs and workshops for adults in the Sooke region. Based on the Elder College model, we provide stimulating and enjoyable learning environments which address the unique and diverse interests of participants.
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