Addiction Problems: Prevention, Public Health, and Public Policy
FPM-40054
This course presents the individual as well as the societal consequences of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs through an exploration of contemporary patterns of legal and illegal consumption and their health, social, family, economic, legal, and political consequences. Participants analyze the prevalence and complexity of such problems as impaired driving, traumatic injury, alcohol-related birth defects, domestic violence, homelessness, and workplace issues. Participants also have opportunities to debate the treatment and prevention implications suggested by readings and class discussions, and prepare themselves to explore strategies for mitigation.
Course Information
Course sessions
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This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic 1st
by Sam Quinones
ISBN / ASIN: 9781620402518
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 9/30/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
William Rodriquez
Mr. Rodriquez’s career in behavioral health began in 2000 after graduating from the Navy’s Drug and Alcohol Counseling School (NDACS). He was stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC, where he served as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern (ADC I). By 2004, he became a fully certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC II) and transitioned to civilian service at Camp Lejeune after being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps. In 2008, he relocated to San Diego, CA, continuing his work as a substance abuse counselor at the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Programs (SARP) at Marine Corps Base 29 Palms and Naval Station Point Loma. In 2011, he advanced to Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) and Senior Substance Abuse Counselor. After completing his MSW in 2013, he fulfilled all requirements to become an LCSW in 2016 and was promoted to Licensed Independent Provider at the Point Loma SARP. Since 2018, Mr. Rodriguez has served as an LCSW for Co-Occurring Disorders at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton’s Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Treatment Programs. In this role, he provides intensive outpatient treatment for active-duty service members facing complex mental health and substance use challenges under the Defense Health Agency (DHA).
Mr. Rodriquez extends his expertise through independent contracting with Options Recovery Services in Berkeley, CA, where he works with the Offenders Mentorship Certification Program (OMCP) for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. He trains inmates in counseling skills and group dynamics, enabling them to achieve certification as Alcohol and Drug Counselors. His efforts contribute to reducing recidivism, improving vocational and educational outcomes, and supporting successful reintegration into society. Additionally, he operates a private practice dedicated to addressing mental health and substance use issues within the broader community. His career reflects a steadfast commitment to serving those affected by mental health and substance use disorders through clinical excellence, education, and advocacy.
