Presentations and Media

Sarah Allen Benton is currently booking speaking engagements, media appearances/interviews (see media page) and Continuing Education Trainings (CEU) on the topic of:  high-functioning alcoholics from both a personal and clinical perspective, evidence-based dual diagnosis treatment (individuals with both addiction and mental health issues) and 12-Step Program Integration for dual diagnosis treatment (brief descriptions below). She is able to tailor her presentations to audiences that include clinical and non-clinical staff at treatment centers, addiction treatment professionals and addiction/mental health/medical conference attendees. Please email her with inquiries or for more information at Sarah@Bentonbhc.com. The following are examples of presentations that Sarah is presently offering that can be tailored to the needs of the audience:

“Understanding and Treating the High-Functioning Alcoholic”

This presentation may begin with Sarah Allen Benton’s personal story of addiction and recovery as a high-functioning alcoholic (HFA) used as a case study. The characteristics, personality traits, recovery and treatment challenges of high-functioning alcoholics will be described based on original interviews and information obtained for her book. DSM-IV TR and DSM-V diagnostic criteria will be analyzed as it relates to this topic as well as relevant research studies cited. In addition, the early recovery experience of HFAs will be compared to that of lower functioning alcoholics. Finally, treatment suggestions will be offered that are unique for the HFA population.

“12-Step Program Integration for Dual-Diagnosis Treatment”

This presentation will give a brief overview of evidence based dual diagnosis treatment and how 12-Step Programs are often involved in that process. The purpose, intention and limitations of 12-Step programs will be described.  Additionally, appropriate and inappropriate integration of 12-Step program concepts, literature and suggestions that compliment dual diagnosis treatment will be described. Case examples will also be used to demonstrate how best to combine these treatment modalities.

“Evidence-Based Treatment for Dual Diagnosis and Co-Occurring Disorders” 

This presentation offers education about dual diagnosis (concept and stats) and evidence based integrated treatment approaches for working with clients who have dual diagnosis (treating both the addiction and the mental health components). Additionally, strategies and approaches for speaking openly about dual diagnosis concepts with clients and psycho-education techniques are presented.