This 90-minute virtual webinar introduces criminal justice professionals to essential concepts and practical tools for addressing unhealthy alcohol, opioid, and drug use among justice-involved individuals. Designed for staff working in corrections, probation, parole, reentry, and related settings, the session blends foundational knowledge with real-world applications. Participants will explore the spectrum of substance use, setting-specific screening tools, and evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies. The webinar also addresses stigma, systemic barriers, and opportunities to improve outcomes through early identification and supportive engagement.
Learning Objectives
- Define and distinguish between types of unhealthy alcohol and drug use (e.g., risky use, substance use disorder)
- Describe the prevalence and consequences of substance use within criminal justice settings
- Recognize the impact of substance use stigma and identify strategies to reduce stigma in correctional and community supervision environments
- Summarize a range of prevention and intervention approaches, including behavioral strategies and referral pathways
Presented by: Jennifer Hettema, PhD is a clinical psychologist and has conducted research on the development, evaluation, and dissemination of brief behavioral health interventions in medical and other settings with an emphasis on promoting health equity. She is a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers and much of her research integrated this approach. Dr. Hettema develops curriculum and teaches medical students, residents, faculty, and other health professions.
Continuing Education Units: 1.5 CEU
This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.
Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.