Work

Preparing Human Services Students for Addiction Practice: Exploring 12-Step Recovery and Community-Based Support Systems

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Precarity in addiction treatment underscores the need for undergraduate addiction counselor preparation training that promotes client-centered and anti-stigmatizing approaches. While evidence supports recovery-oriented systems of care and 12-step support groups, experiential and holistic teaching methods remain underexplored. This qualitative study examines the use of 12-step groups as a pedagogical tool in addiction-focused training, revealing themes of student self-reflection and early practitioner development. Findings highlight the cultivation of emotional awareness, recognition of personal biases, and increased understanding of community-based recovery, demonstrating the value of immersive learning in shaping professional identity and community engagement.

Source: Journal of Human Services

DOI: 10.52678/001c.156375

Authors: Chaniece Winfield, Jason Sawyer, Catalina Kraft, Jill Kivikoski

Institution: Old Dominion University

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7129102047