In this part scientific and part personal story course, participants will learn from the perspective of a former substance abuser with decades of continuous abstinence. What leads a person to using drugs? What environments contribute and how genetics play a role in forming a serious addiction to substances. How can probation officers play a greater role in influencing their probationer's pursuit of recovery from addiction. Do's and don'ts for probation officers. How the brain develops a test for substances. What to know when someone on your caseload is early in their recovery vs. in the "maintenance" stage (90 days sober and beyond.) Lots of take home resources will be provided.

1.Explain to another what factors play a role in a person becoming addicted to drugs and alcohol 2. Understand dysfunctional family roles and how they contribute to addiction in family members. 3.Better support offenders on their caseload to succeed in overcoming their addiction 4.Utilize community resources provided in class as well as advice from presenter on the do's and don'ts.