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What Counselors Should Know About the Twelve Steps

Program Details:
August 11, 2026 | 9:00am - 12:00pm
Modality:
  • In-person
Registration Fee(s):
Free to $70.00
View flyer (PDF)
Additional Details
Instructional Hours:
3.00
Didactic Hours (AHEC Scholars):
3.00
Experiential Hours (AHEC Scholars):
0.00
Registration Deadline:
8/10/26 11:59 PM
Cancellation Deadline:
8/9/26 9:00 AM
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Presenter(s)
Description
Clients struggling with substance use, compulsive behaviors, and related life disruptions are frequently introduced to mutual help groups as part of their recovery journey—yet many clinicians feel underprepared to discuss these resources with confidence. In this engaging and practical workshop, we will explore the foundations of the 12 Steps and the broader landscape of mutual help groups, equipping counselors with the knowledge needed to better guide their clients. Participants will receive a clear, approachable overview of each of the 12 Steps, presented with a blend of practical insight and light humor to demystify their spiritual and philosophical underpinnings. The training will also examine the culture of mutual help groups, helping clinicians understand what clients may experience when attending meetings and how to address common misconceptions or concerns. We will discuss the evolving nature of these groups, including the significant shift to online formats since the pandemic. Both the increased accessibility of virtual meetings and the potential drawbacks—such as reduced in-person engagement and diminished mentorship from long-standing members—will be explored. In addition, the workshop will highlight the importance of clinicians developing familiarity with local and online mutual help resources, as well as building connections that can enhance referral effectiveness. Practical suggestions will be offered to help counselors deepen their understanding of these groups and integrate them more confidently into treatment planning. By the end of this presentation, participants will be better prepared to answer client questions, address ambivalence, and utilize mutual help groups as a valuable complement to clinical care.
Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

  • Explain each step and have a basic understanding of their practical and spiritual principles.
  • Distinguish which clients may benefit from the Twelve Steps.
Disclosures
Pee Dee AHEC’s conflict of interest policy requires faculty to disclose any real or apparent commercial financial affiliations related to the content of their presentations/materials. Speakers have signed a vested interest form declaring any conflict of interest in education activities.
Credits Available
  • Social Worker
    SC Board of Social Work Examiners (Non-SW)
    • Consortium Members:
      • Regular: $35.00 (Until 8/10/2026)
    • All Others:
      • Regular: $70.00 (Until 8/10/2026)
    Credit Statement
    This program is approved for 3.0 non-social work hours of continuing education by Pee Dee AHEC, a part of the South Carolina AHEC system, as defined by the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners.
  • Counselor/Therapist
    SC Board of Examiners for Professional Counselors
    • Consortium Members:
      • Regular: $35.00 (Until 8/10/2026)
    • All Others:
      • Regular: $70.00 (Until 8/10/2026)
    Credit Statement
    This program is approved for 3.0 hours of continuing education by Pee Dee AHEC, a division of SC AHEC, under its accreditation by the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Psycho-Educational Specialists.
  • SC AHEC Scholars
    Area Health Education Consortium Student
    • Pricing:
      • Regular: Free (Until 8/10/2026)
    Credit Statement
    Participation recognition only: This 3 hour(s) program is presented by SC AHEC.
  • All other participants
    Area Health Education Consortium
    • Consortium Members:
      • Regular: $35.00 (Until 8/10/2026)
    • All Others:
      • Regular: $70.00 (Until 8/10/2026)
    Credit Statement
    This program provides 0.3 CEUs by Pee Dee AHEC and meets South Carolina AHEC Best Practice Standards.
Locations/Participation Options
  • McLeod Plaza Classroom (Plaza Classroom)
    Location:
    Florence , SC Details
    Status:
    Open
Contact(s)

If you have questions about the credits, location/video conference information, or any other details specific to this particular program, please reach out to the contact(s) below:

  • Name:
    Kimberly Morris
    Phone:
    843-777-5352
    Email:
    kimberlymorris@mcleodhealth.org
If you have questions related to registering or using the AHEC Learning Portal, please contact alp@scahec.net.

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