Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

While this class will provide many tools to support you, the student, in caring for yourself, THIS IS NOT A SELF-HELP CLASS. This is a class for helping professionals (counseling, nursing, social services, educators, etc) to support women with histories of trauma and substance use in a professional and community-based perspective. It is a required class for the Addiction Counseling Program, but it is not exclusive to those in the program. I welcome people from other helping professions, as it provides a more robust and well-rounded class. 

This class includes ALL WOMEN and those who may identify with the lived experiences of women at some point in their life: Lesbian, bisexual, transgender women, and non-binary people disproportionately experience trauma and substance use and will be central to all of our discussions of women's experiences of substance use.  Everyone must enter this class with a curious and open-mind, be ready to learn and support the members of our community disproportionately impacted by oppression-related trauma and subsequent self-medication and substance use. 

Emotional Support is Helpful During This Class​: This class covers some emotionally challenging topics, especially if you ​have a personal or family history of substance use​ and trauma (which is generally most of the class). I aim to deliver this content in a trauma-informed way. Still, there is no way to discuss the lived realities of women with substance use disorder without discussing the circumstances that lead to, take place during, and come after. It's important to have a support system in place. Think about who you can turn to—a friend, therapist, partner, or family member—if you find yourself needing extra care.​ If you dont have this person in your life, contact me and I will help you find someone! 

Attendance Policy​: This is a required course for the Addiction Counseling Program​ and the attendance policy is strict: missing more than two classes means you can’t pass. ​I'm not able to make an exception to this and they would need to be approved by the Program Dean. 

 Accessibility and Engagement​: I’m committed to making this class accessible and inclusive. ​Except the department-level attendance policy, I have already adapted this class around the most commonly requested accommodations. You’ll find course materials in multiple formats (text, podcasts, videos, etc.), no tests or presentations, and flexibility with due dates. If you have additional access needs, you can go through Accessible Ed & Disability Resources or reach out to me directly—I’m happy to help.​ 

Lastly, engagement is key! This isn’t a class where you can sign in, turn off your camera, and multitask. Active participation makes it more meaningful for everyone (and more fun for you!).​ I teach a multi-method course, however there will be a combo of lecture, popular education, small and large group discussions, watching films, etc. 

Zoom with a working camera is required.