Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program

The Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program at Emory University

Prepares nurse practitioners and social workers for clinical careers in addiction medicine.

The number of persons living with substance use disorders continues to increase without abatement in the US, including in Georgia (GA). Community care settings are uniquely well-positioned to address the care needs of patients with SUD and co-occurring mental health conditions. Georgia has a pronounced need for an integrated substance abuse disorder training program, ranking 48 of 51 (including Washington, DC) for access to care (Mental Health America, Ranking the States, 2022). Georgia also ranks 47th for mental health workforce availability (Mental Health America, The State of Mental Health in America, 2022), emphasizing the need for mental health care and attention to addressing co-occurring mental illness and SUD in GA. The "Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program (APP-ISTP) is a trauma-informed SUD program that will train licensed and license-eligible APNs and LCSWs to provide evidence-based SUD treatment and mental health care in HRSA-designated Health Professional Shortage Areas.

Deadlines:

Cohort 3: Enrollment for 2025-26 year - apply January through May 1, 2025, starts July 5th
Cohort 4: Enrollment for 2026-27 year - apply January through May 1, 2026, starts July 5th
Cohort 5: Enrollment for 2027-28 year - apply January through May 1, 2027, starts July 5th

Contact:

Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance
1520 Clifton Rd, Room 317
Decatur, GA 30322

app-istp@emory.edu

LCSW Application APRN Application

Overview

Overall goal of the program

The "Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program" (APP-ISTP) is a 12-month, full time program that will (1) increase the number of advanced practice nurses (APNs) and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) trained in treating mental illness and identifying, diagnosing, treating, and preventing substance used disorders (SUDs), including medication for opioid use disorder [MOUD]; (2) develop partnerships with community-based primary care clinics and organizations treating and screening for SUD, rural health clinics and organizations, and community based primary care settings to provide care focused on SUD/OUD and mental illness across the life span; and (3) develop or enhance substance use, mental and behavioral health content with cultural and linguistic congruency in didactic and clinical training for APNs and LCSWs, including trauma-informed care, adverse life experiences, and social determinants.

Objectives of training program

Increase the number of individuals completing clinical training requirements for licensure and practicing nurse practitioners (NPs), and/or social workers who are trained to provide integrated mental health and SUD/OUD services, including MOUD for APNs, in a primary care underserved community-based setting, including settings that serve pediatric populations.
Plan, develop, and operate a training program to provide mental health and SUD/OUD services in underserved, community-based settings that integrate primary care, mental health, and SUD/OUD prevention, treatment (including medications to treat opioid use disorder), and recovery.
Establish a foundation of skills and expertise for the community-based program, including entities that serve pediatric populations, that supports training to provide mental health and SUD/OUD prevention, treatment, and recovery services utilizing a team-based care model.

Benefits of training program

Will advance trainees into autonomous clinicians with comprehensive and therapeutic knowledge in caring for people with substance use disorders.
Position fellows to be prepared for the workforce for their desired career goals, especially in primary/care substance use disorder.
Help trainees attain hours necessary for certification in addiction within specialty.
Receive stipend and trainee participation support cost
Receive Peer and expert led training in SUD
Support for attending conferences related to addiction
Receive monthly stipend to support trainees' participation

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Contact:

Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance
1520 Clifton Rd, Room 317
Decatur, GA 30322

Shaquita Starks
Project Director
PhD, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-BC
app-istp@emory.edu

Program Faculty

Shaquita

Starks

PhD, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-BC

Dr Starks is a dually certified FNP and PMHNP, Dr. Starks has provided care in both in-patient and out-patient settings, in person and via telehealth, to individuals across the lifespan with co-occurring severe mental illness and substance use disorders and complex chronic conditions. Through the SAMHSA/American Nurses Association Minority Fellowship Program, she received four years of intensive and specialized training to address mental health care needs of persons suffering from co-occurring disorders. She serves as a consultant for the Interdisciplinary Minority Fellowship program for the American Psychological Association to mentor social workers, counselors, and nurses. She currently coordinates and teaches 130+ students across all advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) programs in advanced pharmacology, supervises APRN students across specialties in a substance use disorder rural immersion program, and leads in-person and telehealth simulations for FNP students.

Autherine

Abiri

DNP, FNP-C, ENP-C

Dr. Autherine Abiri is an Assistant Professor at Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing. She is a certified family & emergency nurse practitioner and has dedicated her clinical career working in the emergency department. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin Madison in 2009 and her Master of Science in Nursing as a family nurse practitioner from Graceland University in 2015. Dr. Abiri graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Emory University in 2020 where she was recognized with the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Social Responsibility Award for breaking down barriers and creating an environment for diversity, equity and inclusion. Additionally, Dr. Abiri serves as a national committee member of the American Academy of Emergency Nurse Practitioner’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee. She takes a special interest in research that centers on the impact of social determinants of health on patient outcomes and health disparities. Dr. Abiri is passionate about providing patient-centered care and implementing processes that promote health equity.

Jordan

Murphy

PhD, PNP

Dr. Jordan has expertise in behavioral and mental health, trauma and resiliency resources, especially CRM®. Dr. Murphy isa Trauma Resource Institute-certified Senior Trainer in CRM. She is also a researcher and nurse educator. Dr. Murphy will advise APP-ISTP on didactic and clinical learning aspects that relate to trauma-informed care, pediatric care, and especially vulnerable populations annually.

Lisa

Muirhead

DNP, APRN-BC, ANP, FAANP, FAAN

Dr. Muirhead is trained as a clinician and has expertise in acute and chronic care, elder and veteran health, and health disparities and vulnerable populations. She has practiced as an APRN for 25+years and has an extensive background focused on advancing health equity for underserved populations. She also serves as Emory Nursing's Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and leads development and strategic vision of Emory Nursing's effort to build a diverse community that values the importance of equity and inclusivity.

Joseph

Carpenter

Dr. Carpenter has clinical and research expertise in overdose prevention, acute medical treatment for SUD, and outpatient addiction specialty treatment. Dr. Carpenter is board certified in Emergency Medicine, Medical Toxicology, and Addiction Medicine. He works at Grady Memorial Hospital’s ED, medically assisted opioid treatment clinic, and medical toxicology consultation service, along with the Georgia Poison Center. As Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, Medical Toxicology, he works clinically at Grady Memorial Hospital's ED, medically assisted opioid treatment clinic, and medical toxicology consultation service, as well as the Georgia Poison Center, providing a continuum of care that includes acute treatment of opioid overdose and withdrawal, buprenorphine induction, and long-term addiction specialty clinic treatment. He is a co-Investigator for REAL TTIME, a four-year HRSA-funded effort to improve access to opioid use disorder specialty care for patients in rural emergency departments.

Gaea

Daniel

PhD, RN

Gaea Daniel, PhD, RN, is Assistant Professor at Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing where her program of research focuses on understanding the sociocultural and environmental influences that affect sexual health behaviors and outcomes. She is particularly interested in sexual health outcomes of Black women that present as race-based disparities. Dr. Daniel is an Emory BIRCWH Scholar and a Gilead Sciences Research Scholar who devotes her time to diversity-related initiatives in research and the nursing profession. She is also the co-editor of Taking Action: Top 10 Priorities to Promote Health Equity and Well-being in Nursing. Dr. Daniel received a PhD in Nursing from Emory University, a Master of Science in Nursing from Augusta University, and a Bachelor of Liberal Studies from Mercer University.

Orion

Mowbray

PhD, LMSW

Dr. Mowbray has published extensively in the areas of mental health and substance use. His research and teaching includes mental health and substance use services embedded within existing systems where vulnerable persons are involved. Dr. Mowbray will advise on didactic and clinical learning aspects that relate to substance use screening and assessment, motivational interviewing and harm reduction.

Sarah

Febres-Cordero

PhD, RN

As an Assistant Professor at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing (NHWSN). I have developed my research in harm reduction, focusing on implementation science. I have begun the overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) lab at the NHWSON. Our OEND lab educates people who use drugs, laypeople, Emory students, and service industry workers across Atlanta about safer drug use, opioid-involved overdose identification, and naloxone distribution as part of our research agenda. As a nurse scientist and faculty at NHWSON, one of my primary goals is to reduce the stigma surrounding drug use, which is a tool of oppression in marginalized communities.

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LCSW or LCSW-eligible Details

‍LCSW Application

12-month full-time LCSW Addiction Training Program Curriculum Topics:

Core Addiction Knowledge:

Neurobiology of Addiction: Understanding the physiological and neurological underpinnings of substance use disorders (SUDs).
Screening and Brief Interventions & Referral to Treatment (SBIRT): Utilizing evidence-based tools for early identification, intervention, and referral of individuals with SUDs.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): Mastering communication skills to empower clients towards positive behavioral change in relation to substance use.

Treatment Modalities:

Buprenorphine Treatment Training: Understanding and applying buprenorphine for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) of opioid use disorder (OUD) within an interdisciplinary team.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Addiction: Developing skills for modifying thoughts and behaviors that contribute to substance use.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) for Adolescent Treatment Recovery: Utilizing IPT to address interpersonal conflicts and improve relationships for adolescents in recovery.

Co-Occurring Disorders and Integrated Care:

Common Mental Health Disorders & Health Issues in Addiction: Recognizing and treating co-occurring mental health conditions and physical health complications of SUDs.
Integrated Care/Collaborative Care: Developing collaborative care models to integrate mental health and addiction treatment services.

Vulnerable Populations and Diversity:

Special Populations (Pediatric and Women's Health): Understanding the unique challenges and treatment approaches for children, adolescents, and women with SUDs.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Training: Developing cultural competency and sensitivity in providing addiction treatment to diverse populations.

Additional Topics:

Community Resiliency Model: Applying strategies to strengthen the capacity of communities to prevent and respond to addiction.
Narcan Training: Administering naloxone to reverse opioid overdose.
Harm Reduction and Trauma-Informed Relapse Prevention: Utilizing harm reduction principles and trauma-informed approaches to support clients in recovery and manage relapse.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Understanding the impact of ACEs on substance use and incorporating trauma-informed care.

Selected applicants will gain clinical experience with experts in the field of addiction and certified peer specialists with lived experience at our partner sites.

LCSW Addiction Training Program Application Requirements:

Education and Licensure:

Master's degree or higher in clinical social work (official transcripts required)
Currently hold an LCSW or LMSW with eligibility for LCSW exam within one year (GA license copy required)
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 from an accredited program (official transcripts required)

Experience and References:

Two recommendation letters (500 words or less):
- One from a clinical supervisor or academic mentor (indicate in "Relationship to Candidate" field)
- One from someone familiar with your passion for integrated care, mental health, and/or substance use disorders (SUDs)

Application Materials:

Compelling essay (maximum 1000 words) addressing:
- Areas of interest in inter-professional care, SUDs, and primary prevention
- Career goals related to the traineeship
- Proposed implementation plan
- Commitment to SUD treatment, community engagement, and underserved areas
Up-to-date CV or resume
Letter of support from employer (or self-employment statement) confirming completion of program clinical requirements (500 words or less)

Additional Requirements:

NPI number (if newly graduated, apply during program)
Emory employee or other federal funding recipient status (if applicable)
Profile creation on HRSA's Health Workforce Connector
Attendance at one HRSA job/fair (minimum)
Travel and accommodation for clinical placements (limited travel support available)
Attendance at all live classes and workshops
Up-to-date immunization records (COVID-19 vaccine, flu, Hep B, TB skin test)
Urine drug screen and background check

‍LCSW Application

APRN Details

‍APRN Application

12 -month full time APRN Addiction Training Program Curriculum Topics:

Core Addiction Knowledge:

Neurobiology of Addiction: Understanding the physiological and neurological underpinnings of substance use disorders (SUDs).
Community Resiliency Model: Applying strategies to strengthen the capacity of communities to prevent and respond to addiction.
Screening and Brief Interventions & Referral to Treatment (SBIRT): Utilizing evidence-based tools for early identification, intervention, and referral of individuals with SUDs.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): Mastering communication skills to empower clients towards positive behavioral change in relation to substance use.

Treatment Modalities and Pharmacotherapy:

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Training: Developing knowledge and skills for initiating, managing, and monitoring MOUD, including buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone.
Narcan Training: Administering naloxone to reverse opioid overdose.
Harm Reduction: Utilizing harm reduction principles to support clients in recovery and manage relapse.

Co-Occurring Disorders and Integrated Care:

Treatment of Common Mental Health Disorders & Health Issues in Addiction: Recognizing and treating co-occurring mental health conditions and physical health complications of SUDs.
Integrated Care/Collaborative Care: Developing collaborative care models to integrate mental health and addiction treatment services.

Vulnerable Populations and Diversity:

Special Populations (Pediatric and Women's Health): Understanding the unique challenges and treatment approaches for children, adolescents, and women with SUDs.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Training: Developing cultural competency and sensitivity in providing addiction treatment to diverse populations.

Additional Topics:

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Understanding the impact of ACEs on substance use and incorporating trauma-informed care

In addition to didactic learning, selected applicants from both specialties will gain clinical experience with experts in the field of addiction and certified peer specialists with lived experience.

APRN Addiction Training Program Application Requirements:

Education and Licensure:

Hold either an MSN or Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in any APRN specialty (FNP, AGNP, WHNP, etc.) (official transcripts required)
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 from an accredited APRN program (official transcripts required)
Be a licensed APRN in GA (or newly graduated APRN with degree verification and plan to obtain certification before program end) (copy of license or verification letter required)

Experience and References:

Two recommendation letters (500 words or less):
- One from a clinical supervisor or academic mentor (indicate in "Relationship to Candidate" field)
- One from someone familiar with your passion for integrated care, mental health, and/or substance use disorders (SUDs)

Application Materials:

Compelling essay (maximum 1000 words) addressing:
- Areas of interest in inter-professional care, SUDs, and primary prevention
- Career goals related to the traineeship
- Proposed implementation plan
- Commitment to SUD treatment, community engagement, and underserved areas
Up-to-date CV or resume
Letter of support from employer (or self-employment statement) confirming completion of program clinical requirements (500 words or less)

Additional Requirements:

NPI number (if newly graduated, apply during program)
Emory employee or other federal funding recipient status (if applicable)
Profile creation on HRSA's Health Workforce Connector
Attendance at one HRSA job/fair (minimum)
Travel and accommodation for clinical placements (limited travel support available)
Attendance at all live classes and workshops
Up-to-date immunization records (COVID-19 vaccine, flu, Hep B, TB skin test)
Urine drug screen and background check

‍APRN Application

Clinical Partner Sites:

Addiction Alliance of Georgia (Atlanta, GA)
LivingProof Recovery (Rome, GA)
New Horizons Treatment Center (Rome, GA)

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Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Who is eligible for this program?

APRNs with either an MSN or DNP degree and board-eligible or currently board-certified within any APRN specialty.
LCSWs with an MSN or higher in social work.
Applicants must be eligible for APRN or LCSW licensure in GA (or hold active licensure).

What are the program's goals?

To equip LCSWs and APRNs with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively screen for, diagnose, and treat substance use disorders.
To promote inter-professional collaboration in the care of individuals with substance use disorders.
To increase access to quality substance abuse treatment in underserved communities.
To prepare LCSWs and APRNs for addiction certification within their specialty if desired.

What format does the program follow?

The program is a blended learning format, combining online modules with in-person workshops and clinical rotations.
The online modules provide the foundation of knowledge on substance use disorders.
The in-person workshops offer opportunities to practice skills and network with colleagues.
The clinical rotations allow participants to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

What are the time commitment requirements?

The program is a full time, 12-months.
Participants can expect to dedicate an average of 10-16 hours per week to the program.

What are the program costs?

The program is of no cost to qualified applicants

What should be included in the required letters?

The letter of employer support should demonstrate that the applicant’s company (if not self-employed) is committed to supporting them by accommodating absences from work for mandatory immersions, meetings, conferences, and workshops. APP-ISTP makes all effort to provide the times and dates for the experiences at least 60 days in advance. Missing any portion of the trainings will result in a stipend reduction. If self-employed, the self-employment letter should attest to the applicant’s commitment to attend all mandatory trainings and immersions, and address how the program aligns with your professional development goals.
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The letter of recommendation may be provided by a supervisor, dean, former professor (if a new graduate), or colleague who is familiar with applicant’s qualifications, education, skills, character, potential to succeed in this field, and desire to work with people with SUD. The letter should specify their relationship with the applicant and provide supporting details within the requested 500 word count. If there are letters that exceed the word count, they could be forfeited.

Curriculum

What topics are covered in the program?

The program covers a broad range of topics related to substance use disorders, including:
Epidemiology and etiology of substance use disorders
Screening and assessment techniques
Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options
Co-occurring mental health disorders
Trauma-informed care
Cultural considerations
Diversity, equity and inclusion
Social determinants of mental health and addiction

What are the learning outcomes for the program?

Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:

Screen for and diagnose substance use disorders.
Develop and implement treatment plans.
Provide evidence-based interventions.
Collaborate with other professionals.
Advocate for individuals with substance use disorders.

What is the selection process?

Applications are reviewed by a community advisory board and program faculty.
Applicants are selected based on their academic record, professional experience, references, personal statement and willingness to meet travel requirements of the program.

Additional Resources

Where can I find more information about the program?

You can find more information about the program by emailing app-istp@emory.edu
You can also contact the program director with any questions.

What other resources are available to me?

There are many resources available to individuals’ seeking information or support related to substance use disorders.

Some resources include:

SAMHSA National Helpline
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD)
Faces & Voices of Recovery