Psychologist UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs Los Angeles, California
Session Description: This session will explain the pharmacology of cannabis, as well as its acute and chronic physical and psychological effects. Participants will learn how cannabis can be used as a medication and the legal questions that still surround medical cannabis despite its legalization in many states. The historical connection between the HIV epidemic and efforts to legalize cannabis will be explained. The training concludes with a review of specific strategies that clinicians can utilize to communicate effectively with clients who are either using cannabis or considering its use for either medical or recreational purposes. Clinicians will assess how to help clients examine their use of cannabis, and be able to explain alternative methods of addressing common medical conditions for which individuals use cannabis.
Learning Objectives:
After this activity participants should be able to
Identify at least three (3) elements of the mechanism of action of cannabis.
Recall at least three (3) physiological effects and at least three (3) psychological effects of cannabis in adolescents and adults.
Apply at least two (2) intervention strategies to facilitate individuals’ exploration of the reasons and motivation for their cannabis use.
