Cultural Understandings of Substance Use

Course Overview

This training introduces first responders and frontline providers to the role of cultural competency in substance use care, with a focus on naloxone leave-behind programs and therapeutic reconciliation. Participants will explore how cultural beliefs, values, and practices influence substance use patterns, perceptions, and engagement with services. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, the course emphasizes respectful, empathetic approaches to care that honor cultural diversity, reduce stigma, and foster healing. By the end of the session, learners will be equipped to build trust, tailor interventions, and serve as compassionate bridges to recovery across diverse communities.

Course Objectives

Explain how cultural beliefs and social contexts influence substance use behaviors, risk factors, and perceptions across diverse populations.
Demonstrate how to apply cultural competency principles when implementing naloxone leave-behind programs to foster trust and reduce stigma.
Apply strategies from therapeutic reconciliation and cultural humility to improve communication, build rapport, and support recovery-oriented care in field encounters.

Target Audience

Prehospital Responders

Faculty

Ansley Mason

Disclosure

Ansley Mason discloses no such relationships exist

In compliance with the Essentials and Standards of the ACCME, the author of this CME tutorial is required to disclose any significant financial or other relationships they may have with commercial interests.