(1) Pharmacology and psychopharmacology of alcohol and drugs (drugs of abuse and drugs used in the treatment of addictions and other psychiatric disorders).

(2) Addiction processes including models and theories of addiction; social and cultural context of addiction; biological, psychological and social effects of addiction; and the differentiation and interrelations of addiction from other medical and psychological conditions.

(3) Various treatment models and methods including models of treatment; relapse prevention and continuing care; impact of treatment on problems associated with addiction; co-occurring psychiatric disorders; and the importance of community, social, family and self-help systems.

(4) Practical application, including use of interdisciplinary approaches and teams in treatment; assessment and diagnostic criteria; appropriate use of treatment modalities; adapting treatment strategies to a patient's individual characteristics and needs; and the use of other resources in securing the best available services for the patient.

(5) Professional standards of practice, including recognizing the needs of diverse populations relating to issues of ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS and co-occurring psychiatric disorders; adherence to ethical and professional standards of conduct; commitment to continuing education and clinical supervision; awareness of policies and procedures for patients and staff safety; an understanding of etiology, treatment and prevention; and the clinical application of current research in alcohol and drug treatment.