Addictions 2025

Course Overview

In 2023, an estimated 48 million Americans experienced a substance use disorder, underscoring the urgent and ongoing national crisis of addiction. The opioid epidemic, in particular, has fueled devastating consequences, including skyrocketing overdose deaths. Addiction impacts nearly every facet of life—it contributes to numerous health problems, fractures families and relationships, and leaves individuals isolated, depressed, and at heightened risk of suicide. The bidirectional relationship between addiction and comorbid disorders further complicates treatment, as each condition can exacerbate the other. 

Compounding these challenges, individuals with addiction often minimize or deny the severity of their struggles, resisting treatment. Yet, every year, countless Americans overcome addiction with the support of healthcare professionals and evidence-based interventions. 

McLean Hospital, the largest psychiatric hospital of Harvard Medical School, is proud to present this annual conference, which brings together leading experts in the addiction field. This comprehensive program will highlight the latest evidence-based treatments, strategies for addressing the complexities of comorbid disorders, and approaches for working with special populations. 

Participants will also benefit from smaller, interactive breakout sessions each afternoon, designed to deepen understanding and enhance practical skills in an engaging format. Join us for an invaluable opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a distinguished and accomplished faculty in advancing the care and outcomes for individuals facing addiction. 

Who Should Attend

• Psychiatrists
• Primary Care Physicians
• Physician Assistants
• Nurses
• Nurse Practitioners
• Specialty Physicians
• Psychologists
• Social Workers
• Counselors 
• and Others

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: 

• Outline comprehensive treatment strategies for substance use disorders integrating medications and psychosocial treatments. 
• Customize treatments for special populations, including women and adolescents. 
• Describe current, scientifically accepted uses of medical cannabis.
• Explain how to identify and treat gambling disorder. 
• Identify and incorporate mindfulness techniques in addiction treatment.  
• Offer treatment strategies for different forms of nicotine use disorder. 
• Discuss treatment strategies for people with comorbidities such as PTSD, anxiety, and substance use disorders. 
• Implement motivational interviewing techniques with patients.