Green Bay, Wis. — Addiction continues to pose a serious public health challenge across Wisconsin, with the state experiencing a sharp rise in substance-related harms. Statewide, alcohol-induced deaths have surged by 142% over the past two decades, and synthetic opioid fatalities—primarily linked to fentanyl—have increased twentyfold since 2010. These alarming trends underscore the urgent need for community-based education and support.
In response, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay has partnered with Mental Health America Lakeshore (MHA-Lakeshore) to launch the Addiction Recovery Certificate Program, designed to equip professionals and allies with the tools to foster resilience, reduce stigma and promote pathways to healing.
The program, which is now open for enrollment, provides evidence-based training for professionals working with individuals in recovery, as well as a condensed “ally” version for friends and family members supporting loved ones. Both tracks aim to build understanding, empathy and practical skills to support long-term recovery. They are offered online and on-demand. The professional track includes 10 hours of learning, while the family/friends certificate can be completed in four hours.
“The Addiction Recovery Certificate Program is important because it builds critical knowledge and skills at a time when communities face increasing challenges with addiction and mental health,” said Julie Preder, executive director at MHA-Lakeshore. “By offering accessible, high-quality training, the program helps strengthen the workforce, supports individuals on their recovery journey and ensures more people have the compassionate, informed care they deserve. “
The curriculum includes modules on the science of addiction, trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, relapse prevention, and the impact of digital addiction and social isolation. Participants will also explore cultural considerations, mindfulness strategies, and real-world case studies shared by experienced counselors.
The program is part of UW-Green Bay’s ongoing commitment to community health and workforce development. With a focus on trauma, mental health, and social determinants of addiction, the certificate offers a holistic approach to recovery education.
The registration fee for the professional version of Addiction Recovery Certificate Program is $49; cost for the ally version is $25. Learn more and register online or by contacting Melissa Betke, program specialist at UW-Green Bay, at (920) 663-7337.
About UW-Green Bay
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 11,198 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 85,883 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With four campus locations in Northeast Wisconsin, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.
About Mental Health America Lakeshore
Mental Health America Lakeshore is an affiliate of the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit, Mental Health America (MHA), dedicated to addressing the needs individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. Since 1953, Mental Health America Lakeshore has been a leader in mental health education, committed to promoting mental wellness and supporting recovery through prevention programs, advocacy and referrals to care and treatment services. To learn more, visit https://mhalakeshore.org.
