Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and Brain Injury

The Mountain Plains ATTC is proud to collaborate with the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators (NASHIA) to sponsor a training series with the of goal increasing knowledge and skills regarding individuals with brain injuries and mental health and substance use disorders. Specifically, this series will highlight individuals with SUDs and a brain injury; youth with co-occurring disorders, and justice-involved individuals with brain injuries. Implications and recommendations for assessment and treatment will be highlighted in each of the 75-minute sessions

Become familiar with the broad trajectory of brain development, its vulnerability throughout the life span, and the emerging consensus that brain injury is a common, chronic condition
Be able to identify common cognitive, physical, and behavioral consequences of brain injury
Be able to identify the links between a history of brain injury, both diagnosed and undiagnosed, and substance use disorders
Be able to name three strategies to support individuals who are living with SUDs and a possible or confirmed brain injury

Presenter: Anastasia Edmonston, MS, CRC, has more than 30 years of experience in the field of rehabilitation services for individuals with traumatic and acquired brain injuries, Anastasia has worked as a clinician, program coordinator, vocational rehabilitation counselor, and federal grant coordinator. Over the past 15 years, she has incorporated her clinical expertise and passion for advocacy into developing and delivering workshops, webinars, and training to a variety of audiences that focus on how to identify and appropriately serve individuals who are living with brain injury.