The Many Layers of Substance Abuse
The second event in the "Why Do We Do What We Do? A Look into Unconscious Motivation" Spring 2025 Community Learning Series
This is a hybrid event. Participants may attend in-person at BGSP (1581 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA) or via Zoom.
Most people know of someone who has turned to substances, such as drugs and alcohol, to help them manage intolerable feelings. But did you know that the unconscious plays an important role in why people choose this path? This event presents the possible unconscious motivations behind substance abuse and demonstrates how recognizing these hidden influences can help overcome the challenges of addiction.
Discussion Leaders
Juan B. Faraoni III, Psya.D., LMHC, LPC received both his clinical Master’s and Doctorate degrees from the Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis where he is currently a fellow, clinical supervisor, faculty member, and director of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Dr. Faraoni worked in the human services field for 12 years, including directing programs in intellectual and physical disabilities and substance abuse. His work in substance abuse culminated as the clinical supervisor of a methadone clinic consisting of approximately 500 patients. In addition to his work with BGSP, Dr. Faraoni is currently in full-time private practice and has offices in Hartford, CT and Brookline, MA.
Melissa Skepko, LMHC has experience working with both individuals and groups at psychiatric/social residential rehabilitation programs, outpatient clinics, and in her private practice. Ms. Skepko is currently the Clinical Director of Hope House Addiction Services, a residential substance use treatment program in the Boston area, where she is responsible for the clinical supervision of staff and the overall development of client programming.
OBJECTIVES
The participant will be able to:
- Discuss and provide examples of how using substances may be used to manage intolerable feelings.
- Discuss how the unconscious plays an important role in substance use and discuss why some people may choose this path.
- Discuss ways one may recognize hidden influences and how this can help to overcome the challenges of addiction.
2 CE Units / Clock Hours Available
BGSP is authorized to provide CEs for: Psychologists (all levels), Social Workers, Counselors
Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. BGSP maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5676. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
Application for social work continuing education credits is being submitted. Please contact us at continuinged@bgsp.edu for the status of social work CE accreditation.
For information on continuing education credits for nurses, social workers, or marriage and family counseling, call (617) 277-3915.
Direct inquiries may be made regarding the accreditation status by NECHE to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact: New England Commission on Higher Education, 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Ste 100, Burlington, MA 01803-4514, at (781) 425-7785 or email: info@neche.org
The Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.
Direct inquiries may be made regarding the accreditation status by NECHE to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact: New England Commission on Higher Education, 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Ste 100, Burlington, MA 01803-4514, at (781) 425-7785 or email: info@neche.org
