Published: January 2021

This Advisory is based on Technical Assistance Publication (TAP) 21, Addiction Counseling Competencies: The Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes of Professional Practice. It discusses the development of the counseling competencies and the validated research on which they are based, provides a simplified overview of their structure and the elements of a typical competency, and outlines how these competencies are changing the field of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment nationwide. The Advisory also addresses the critical role of cultural competency.

Published: November 2015

This guide enhances the competencies of substance use disorder treatment counselors. It discusses patient assessment and screening, treatment planning, referral, service coordination, counseling, family and community education, and cultural competency.

Published: October 2015

This guide provides guidelines for brief treatment and counseling with adults living with a marijuana dependence. It describes common treatment issues, assessment of marijuana use, motivational interventions, and how to change marijuana use through skill building.

Published: February 2015

For individuals at risk of suicide, primary and behavioral health care settings provide unique opportunities to connect with the health care system and access effective treatment. Suicide Safe is a free mobile app that helps providers integrate suicide prevention strategies into their practice and address suicide risk among their patients. The Suicide Safe app is based on SAMHSA's Suicide Assessment Five-Step Evaluation and Triage (SAFE-T) card.

Published: September 2014

This manual presents guidelines for clinical supervision in the substance use disorder treatment field. It covers supervision methods and models, cultural competence, ethical and legal issues, and performance monitoring. The manual also includes an implementation guide for program administrators. Access the literature review.

Published: August 2014

Explica los servicios de salud mental del Programa de Capacitación y Asistencia en Asesoramiento para Casos de Crisis para las personas que han sobrevivido un evento traumático. Ayuda a los estados, territorios y tribus que son reconocidos a nivel federal a preparar las solicitudes de subvenciones para obtener financiación.

Published: January 2013

This guide helps substance use counselors treat clients with symptoms of depression and substance use conditions. Program administrators will learn how to integrate depression treatment into early drug treatment. The guidelines cover screening, assessment, treatment, counseling, cultural competence, and continuing care. 

Published: January 2009

This toolkit gives practice principles for integrated treatment for mental illness, substance use disorders, or both, and offers advice from successful programs. The toolkit includes a brochure, a PowerPoint presentation, and a introductory video.

Published: April 2009

This brochure explains the Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program's emergency mental health services and programs for people who have experienced traumatic events. It helps states, territories, and federally recognized tribes prepare grant applications for funding.

Published: October 2008

This toolkit offers tools to implement the evidence-based practice of Assertive Community Treatment (ACT). ACT offers customized, community-based services for people living with mental illness. The toolkit includes a brochure (English, Spanish), a PowerPoint presentation, and an introductory video.