Using Psychodrama in Working with Addictions and Addictive Behavior

Format: The workshop, of whatever length, will consist of didactic presentation, experiential activity, and discussion/processing. The focus will, of course, be heavily on experiential activity as participants explore addictions and recovery through the psychodramatic lenses of surplus reality, role reversal and role training. The use of action provides avenues within which needed social and survival skills (often absent in those with addictions) can be taught.

Participants: This workshop is appropriate for educators, health and welfare professionals, pastoral workers, clergy and counselors, corrections workers, etc., who work with and/or are impacted by issues of addictions and addictive behaviors.

Learning Outcomes - Participants will be able to:

. describe practical and theoretical aspects of Action Methods, and their application to models of recovery when working with people with addictive behaviors

. articulate limitations of the methods, contraindications and appropriate practices for using these techniques safely
. perform basic psychodramatic, sociodramatic and role-training techniques for working with clients on recovery issues such as: rehearsal for healthy behavior, and role reversal with addictions of choice

Logistics: This workshop can be offered as a full day workshop with 6-7 hours of workshop time bookended around a lunch break, or a two-day workshop with 6-7 hours the first day and 5-6 the second. Time is adjustable. Space needs include a room with movable chairs and large enough to accommodate the people involved. Tables off to the side and a blackboard or whiteboard are needed. Lunch breaks are scheduled and group members may either be on their own for lunch, or "pot luck" arrangements can be made.

Staff: If there are people locally available who are interested in and/or knowledgeable about addictions and recovery, as well as action techniques, they can be incorporated into a workshop team with adequate preparation time.