Preparing social workers to address substance use disorders: Perceived gaps in education, training, and practice readiness

Title : Preparing social workers to address substance use disorders: Perceived gaps in education, training, and practice readiness

Abstract:

Substance use disorders (SUDs) continue to represent a significant public health concern in the United States, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to treatment services is limited. Social workers play a critical role in the prevention, assessment, treatment, and recovery support of individuals affected by substance use disorders. Despite their prominent role within behavioral health systems, many social workers report limited formal education and training specific to substance use disorders during their academic preparation. This gap may contribute to reduced confidence, stigma toward individuals with SUDs, and challenges in delivering evidence-based interventions.

The purpose of this proposed qualitative study is to explore how practicing social workers perceive their educational preparation for working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders and to identify perceived gaps in social work education that impact practice readiness. Guided by an interpretivist framework, the study will utilize semi-structured interviews with licensed social workers employed in behavioral health and substance use treatment settings. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common experiences, perceptions, and recommendations for improving educational preparation.

Expected findings include the identification of curricular deficiencies, limited exposure to addiction-specific coursework, and the need for increased experiential learning opportunities related to substance use treatment. Findings may contribute to the development of enhanced social work curricula, professional training initiatives, and workforce development strategies designed to improve practitioner competency and client outcomes.

As substance use disorders continue to affect individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan, strengthening social work education in addiction-related competencies is essential to preparing a workforce capable of addressing the complex needs of those seeking treatment and recovery support.

Biography:

Elizabeth Brooks, MSW, CTTS, NACAPT, is the Clinical Administrative Director of Office-Based Medication-Assisted Treatment (OBMAT), Director of the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program–Implementation (RPG), and Director of Tobacco Treatment Services at Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center in West Virginia. She holds a BA in Early Childhood Education and an MSW from Concord University and is pursuing a Doctor of Social Work at Walden University. With experience in education, child and family services, and behavioral health, she leads programs addressing substance use disorders, mental health, and health disparities. She serves as President of WVAAPP and is the 2026 ACHR Ambassador for Community Health Research.