ATTC: How Trauma Impacts SUD and Subsequent Treatment Efforts

The Addiction Technology Transfer Centers (ATTCs) play a critical role in advancing our nation’s health by equipping healthcare professionals and community organizations with effective tools to address individuals, children, and families impacted by alcohol and drug use.

This session examines the role of trauma in the development, persistence, and treatment of substance use disorders (SUD). Participants will explore how traumatic experiences shape neurobiological stress systems, emotional regulation, and behavioral responses that influence substance use patterns and recovery trajectories. The presentation will also highlight how trauma histories affect treatment engagement, retention, and therapeutic alliance in addiction care settings. The goal is to equip clinicians and program leaders with a deeper conceptual framework for recognizing trauma-related dynamics and integrating trauma-informed approaches into SUD treatment environments.