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DSM Practice

May 14 @ 9:00 am - May 15 @ 4:00 pm

This two-day training provides an in-depth review of DSM-5-TR criteria for substance use and co-occurring disorders, equipping addiction counselors and peer support specialists with practical diagnostic skills. The training emphasizes real-world application through case studies, group discussions, and interactive exercises. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses, and the clinical significance of mental health disorders commonly seen in addiction treatment.

The workshop will meet virtually from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm ADT on both 5/14/26 and 5/15/26.

CEs:  A total of 12 NAADAC CEs will be provided to all completers.Learning ObjectivesThis two-day workshop will support counselors and peers to:

  • Understand and apply DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and common co-occurring disorders in behavioral health settings.
  • Enhance clinical decision-making by practicing differential diagnosis through case studies and small group discussions.
  • Improve communication with clients and interdisciplinary teams by integrating DSM-based language into treatment planning and care coordination.

PresenterFacilitators: Caitlin Hegwood, Sasha Tsurnos, and Shelby Guffey.

Caitlin Hegwood, PhD, LPC-S, LPC, MAC, CCTS-I
Caitlin Hegwood has over a decade of experience as an educator, counselor, and certified recovery coach. She has worked across diverse settings—including community mental health, residential treatment, and private practice—in Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, and Massachusetts. As Chief Clinical Officer at True North Recovery, she integrates evidence-based addiction treatment with trauma-informed self-regulation techniques to reduce symptoms, relapse, and recidivism. Her publications include Developing Human Values in Adulthood (2023) and a contribution to Clinical Supervision: An Overview (2024).

Sasha Tsurnos, LCSW, MSW, CDCS
Sasha Tsurnos brings over a decade of experience in behavioral health services, with a career spanning frontline work, middle management, and leadership roles across diverse settings. In 2009, she began her further education and sharing her lived experience to support both individuals and professionals in the behavioral health field. This commitment ignited her passion for creating and serving on platforms where individuals and communities can be heard, validated, and empowered throughout the full continuum of behavioral services. Sasha leverages her personal and professional background to provide trauma-informed services, guidance, education, and supervision to diverse populations and professionals pursuing growth and impact. She currently serves as the Adult Mental Health Program Manager at True North Recovery.

Shelby Guffey, MS
Shelby Guffey is a mental health clinician and Residential Clinical Program Manager with True North Recovery, where she has been supporting clients for the past two years. She facilitates Healthy Living and DBT groups and provides individual therapy sessions with a strong focus on trauma therapy. Shelby incorporates EMDR, DBT skills, and trauma-informed approaches to help clients process past experiences, regulate emotions, and develop healthy coping strategies. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can work through challenges, build resilience, and move toward healing and growth. She earned her Master of Science in Forensic Psychology in 2023 and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice in 2015. Before joining TNR,  Shelby worked as a behavioral aide in elementary schools and taught undergraduate courses in forensic psychology. These experiences deepened her interest in understanding human behavior and strengthened her commitment to helping individuals recover and thrive.

Details

Organizer

  • True North Recovery Training Program

Venue

  • Online
  • United States