Comprehensive Training: Substance Use Series
About SafeLink Alberta Comprehensive Training
SafeLink Alberta provides in-person, certificate-awarding training on topics related to sexual health and substance use for service providers in Calgary. Each course is tailored to your organization’s needs and emphasizes practical application, cultural competency, and advanced strategies. Participants learn through scenario-based practice, peer collaboration, and lived-experience speakers. Sessions cost $250–$750 and accommodate up to 30 participants.
An Introduction to Substance Use and Criminalized Drugs of Canada
Length: 2-2.5 Hours | Cost: $500
This foundational course is the first in a two-part series, introducing participants to the factors driving Canada’s current drug toxicity epidemic. Participants will examine Canadian statistics on accidental drug poisonings and explore criminalized drugs most affecting the epidemic. The training will highlight commonly used substances, examine the benefits and risks of substance use, and address myths that contribute to stigma and discrimination.
Supporting Canadians Who Use Substances
Length: 2-2.5 Hours | Cost: $500
This course is the second in a two-part series. Participants will learn about safer substance use practices and safer substance use equipment, examine the complexities of substance use, and sharpen their understanding of how to best support individuals who use substances.
Beyond Abstinence: Understanding 6 Pitfalls of an Abstinence-Only Approach
Substance use disorders are a complex and multifaceted public health issue affecting millions globally. In response to this growing crisis, two primary models have emerged in addressing substance use: the abstinence-only model and harm reduction. While abstinence-only approaches have been dominant for decades, increasing evidence shows that this model alone falls short in addressing the needs of diverse populations struggling with substance use. However, harm reduction is not opposed to recovery—it offers a more holistic and practical approach that can work alongside abstinence, supporting individuals at every stage of their journey.
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Learn How to Support People Who Use Substances
Take both training sessions listed above to receive a complimentary toolkit and practical application workshop!
Through extensive consultation and our own implementation journey, SafeLink Alberta crafted a practical guide that combines literature with real-life experiences to provide information, actionable ideas, and lessons learned. Whether you're a frontline worker or an organization seeking to improve your approach, our Best Practices for Supporting People Who Use Substances toolkit offers insights and strategies to support you in identifying and overcoming barriers to care for people who use substances.