Introduction to Substance Misuse: Understanding and Supporting Young People
Facilitators:
Dr. Nistor Becia, MBE – Chartered Psychologist, British Psychological Society (BPS)
Camelia Bancila – Principal Psychologist, College of Romanian Psychologists (CPR)
Course Details:
Duration: One-day interactive training
Format: In-person
Languages: English (Romanian translation available upon request)
Course Overview
Substance misuse among young people is a growing concern with serious impacts on mental health, emotional development, education, and long-term wellbeing. This specialist training is designed to help professionals working with children and adolescents to better understand the root causes of substance misuse, recognize early warning signs, and respond with confidence and compassion.
Facilitated by Dr. Nistor Becia, MBE, and Camelia Bancila, the session integrates psychological theory, youth-specific case studies, and practical intervention strategies tailored to young people’s unique needs and contexts.
What You Will Learn
Understanding Adolescent Substance Use
Learn about common substances, developmental risk factors, peer influence, and the impact on adolescent brain and behaviour.
Early Identification and Risk Indicators
Recognize physical, emotional, and behavioural signs of experimentation, dependency, or hidden distress in young people.
Youth-Centred Communication
Explore approaches for building trust and engaging young people in open, non-judgemental dialogue.
Intervention Pathways and Support
Understand harm-reduction strategies, when and how to involve specialist services, and how to build multi-agency support plans.
Working with Families and Carers
Learn how to support families alongside young people and navigate the challenges of confidentiality, safeguarding, and consent.
Building Resilience and Protective Factors
Explore strengths-based practices and prevention approaches that empower young people to make informed, healthy choices.
Who Should Attend
This course is ideal for professionals working with or supporting young people, including:
- Youth workers and school staff
- Social workers and family support workers
- CAMHS and mental health professionals
- Healthcare providers in adolescent services
- Police officers and community safety workers
- Staff in residential or supported housing settings
About the Facilitators
Dr. Nistor Becia, MBE is a Chartered Psychologist with over 17 years of experience in mental health services in the UK. He has worked extensively with young people in clinical, community, and safeguarding settings. His work has been recognised nationally with an MBE for services to psychological wellbeing in the UK.
Camelia Bancila is Principal Psychologist at the College of Romanian Psychologists (CPR), with specialist experience in youth mental health and addiction. She brings both clinical expertise and a deep understanding of how to connect meaningfully with young people and their support networks.
Be the support young people need — learn how to respond effectively, empathetically, and confidently to substance misuse.
To book or request more information, please contact us.