Foster Care Training

The effects of vicarious trauma have been shown in research to cause very harmful consequences to those experiencing them. In this 2-hour training, the presentation will include: definitions; research on how polyvagal theory can help prevent vicarious trauma; an introduction to the neuroscience of nervous system and brain chemicals; and strategies caregivers of system involved youth (who are all too often negatively affected by vicarious trauma) can implement. Participants will be guided through a sequence of learning activities to explore and understand the negative impact that vicarious trauma can have on system involved youth and families and to gain increased awareness in order to reduce harm in the future through nervous system regulation and self-examination of their own behavior. Learning activities will include: self-reflection, storytelling of real life examples, large group exercises, and participant question time.