A Straightforward Look at Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorders - 10/5/2026

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Course Overview
This interactive session is designed for nonmedical and medical professionals who want to better understand the medications used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Whether you work in recovery support, housing, or case management, or just want to learn more, this course breaks down the science in a simple, approachable way—no medical degree required. Together, we’ll explore how these medications work, why they matter, and how understanding them can help reduce stigma and support long-term recovery. The goal? To equip everyone with the knowledge and confidence to be part of the solution.

Learning Outcomes  
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:

  • Describe the clinical differences between methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, including their mechanisms of action and ideal patient profiles.
  • Apply evidence-based strategies to initiate and manage MOUD in outpatient or residential settings, accounting for real-world barriers.
  • Challenge common misconceptions and stigma surrounding MOUD using person-centered language and harm reduction principles.

About the Author/Presenter  
Brooke Schaefer, MSN, MBA, FNP-C, is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified in addiction medicine with a strong background in integrated healthcare leadership. She serves as the Senior Vice President of Integrated Services at Volunteers of America Ohio and Indiana, where she develops and oversees innovative programs that unite medical, behavioral health, and recovery support. With experience ranging from the NICU to executive leadership, Brooke brings a data-driven, compassion-centered approach to substance use disorder treatment. She is a passionate advocate for harm reduction, stigma reduction, and transforming systems of care.

Audience/Accreditations and Approvals  
TRC Healthcare/ NetCE  
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by TRC Healthcare/ NetCE. TRC Healthcare/NetCE is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.  
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details):  
Counselor, Psychology, Social Work

If you require special accommodations, please contact Colibri Healthcare Support by clicking here: Contact Us