This course provides a comprehensive literature review of behavioral health services targeting adult American Indians and Alaska Natives. It covers epidemiological studies on prevalence of mental and substance use disorders, cultural adaptations for treatment, motivations for accessing care, retention and outcome challenges, screening and assessment considerations, integration of traditional practices, community-level intervention strategies, and systems issues affecting service provision. The course is designed for behavioral health providers, administrators, supervisors, and researchers working with these populations to enhance culturally responsive and effective care.

Behavioral Health Service Providers Program Administrators Clinical Supervisors Researchers Psychologists Counselors

Program Objectives

Describe 6 major behavioral health needs specific to American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Identify 4 epidemiological patterns of mental and substance use disorders among American Indian and Alaska Native adults.

Explain 3 culturally responsive adaptations for behavioral health treatment modalities in these populations.

Evaluate 2 strategies for improving retention and treatment outcomes in behavioral health services for American Indians and Alaska Natives.