Defense Date

10-31-2025

Graduation Date

Fall 12-19-2025

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Counselor Education and Supervision (ExCES)

School

School of Education

Committee Chair

Dr. David Delmonico

Committee Member

Dr. Debra Hyatt-Burkhardt

Committee Member

Dr. Matthew Joseph

Keywords

medical cannabis, substance use counseling

Abstract

Cannabis, once primarily regarded as a recreational or “party” drug, has undergone a significant shift in public and medical perception over the past two decades. It is now increasingly recognized as a therapeutic agent prescribed within clinical settings. While substantial research has examined the general use of medical cannabis, relatively little attention has been given to its implications for substance use counselors treating clients who use medical cannabis during treatment for substance use disorders. The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions of substance use counselors regarding client use of medical cannabis and to investigate how such use influences the therapeutic process, including counselors’ treatment approaches and clinical decision-making. Findings from this study may support future research into the clinical role of medical cannabis and inform counseling practices in the evolving landscape of cannabis legalization.

Language

English

Download

Share

COinS