Clinical psychology of addiction

Teacher(s)

Maurage Pierre;

Language

French

Main themes

• Epidemiology (prevalence, diagnosis, symptoms, comorbidities).

• Main theoretical models of addictive states.

• Cognitive, behavioural and brain effects of psychoactive substances.

• Evidence-based psychological interventions on addictive states. 

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	This course aims at: Introducing the empirical approach of the conceptualization, diagnosis and treatment of addictive states. Develop clinical abilities related to the treatment of addictive states.   Describe theoretical models and evidence-based intervention methods in the field of addictive states. Present the neuroscientific and neuropsychological approaches of addictive states, and describe the theoretical and clinical perspectives related to these approaches.

Content

This course will be based on 13 two-hour lectures organized around 3 axes (potentially modified according to the evolution of the scientific literature and the interests expressed by the students):
Axis I: General considerations on addictions
- Lecture 1: Historical approach of addictions / Evolution of the biopsychosocial perspective on addictions / Key-concepts / Diagnosis criteria.
- Lecture 2: Main characteristics of substance-related addictions / Individual psychological and interpersonal factors invoved in addictions / Epidemiology of addictions.
- Lecture 3: Current empirical (psychological, medical, neuroscientific) models of addictions, and related clinical interventions.
- Lecture 4: Neurobiology of addictions and craving.
- Lecture 5: Cognitive, behavioral and brain-related effects of psychoactive substances.
Axis II: Specific approach of the main addictions
- Lecture 6: Severe alcohol-use disorder
- Lecture 7: Cannabis and new synthetic drugs
- Lecture 8: Behavioral addictions
- Lecture 9: Masterclass given by an international researcher (topic to be determined)
Axis III: Clinical perspectives on addictions
- Lecture 10: Prevention techniques for addictive behaviors
- Lecture 11: Early interventions: adolescence and risky behaviors (including binge drinking)
- Lecture 12: Neuropsychological approach: usefulness of cognitive remediation in addictions (Part 1)
- Lecture 13: Neuropsychological approach: usefulness of cognitive remediation in addictions (Part 2) and meeting with clinicians/patients

Teaching methods

Lecture

Evaluation methods

Written exam based on 20 short questions/answers (3-4 lines, 1 point per answer).

Other information

The course is given in French and the slides are in French, but complementary information (e.g. English translation for key slides) is available for international students upon request.
The core reading for the course (compulsory and complementary papers) is in English. Basic English reading abilities are thus required.
The standard exam is a written exam in French. However, international students taking this course:

• Will be allowed to use a dictionary when taking the written exam in French.
• Will be allowed 33% more time when taking the written exam in French, if requested at least 15 days before the exam via e-mail (pierre.maurage@uclouvain.be)
• Are provided with the opportunity to write their answers in English.

Online resources

Lectures' slides as well as compulsory/complementary scientific papers available on Moodle.

Bibliography

Lectures obligatoires et complémentaires, librement disponibles sur Moodle.

Teaching materials

• Slides des cours, lectures obligatoires et lectures complémentaires disponibles sur Moodle.

Faculty or entity

EPSY