Reentry Best Practices for Individuals with Substance Use Disorder: A City of St. Louis Department of Health Course
This course shares the best practices for supporting individuals with substance use disorders who are involved in the criminal justice system. The course will discuss the heightened risk of overdose during the first weeks of reentry and will teach how to implement evidence-based practices that improve health and safety outcomes.
Participants will learn about screening and assessment tools, withdrawal management, recovery capital, and evidence-based treatment, including behavioral therapies and medications for addiction treatment (MAT). Participants will also learn the essential components of reentry planning, such as addressing basic needs, developing relapse prevention strategies, and implementing overdose education and naloxone distribution to reduce post-release overdose deaths.
- Identify the key components of comprehensive screening and assessment instruments.
- Describe evidence-based treatment approaches for substance use disorders, including withdrawal management, medications for addiction treatment (MAT), and behavioral interventions.
- Explain the role and impact of MAT and behavioral interventions in correctional and community-based settings, including their effectiveness in preventing relapse and overdose.
- Define recovery capital and assess how it supports sustained recovery and successful community reintegration.
- Understand the importance and key components of developing a personalized relapse prevention plan that addresses individual risk factors and leverages available support systems.
This course is open to all community members and professionals who are interested in learning more about substance use disorders and medication for opioid use disorder.
Addiction Policy Forum & City of St. Louis Department of Health. (2026). Reentry Best Practices for Individuals with Substance Use Disorder: A City of St. Louis Department of Health Course. Justice Community Overdose Innovation Network Coordination and Translation Center. https://www.jcoinctc.org/courses/reentry-best-practices-for-individuals-with-substance-use-disorder-a-city-of-st-louis-department-of-health-course/
