Foster Care Training

Many system-involved youth and families are impacted by Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) which can negatively affect them physically, psychologically, socially, legally, vocationally, educationally, and in other areas of life functioning. The widespread problems associated with alcohol and drug use coupled with the fact that most individuals with SUDs do not seek substance abuse treatment, making it likely that service/support providers will encounter system-involved youth & families impacted by SUDs. How do we learn to recognize the medical aspects of alcoholism and substance abuse, and support those who may be unaware of the ramifications that alcoholism and substance abuse is having on their lives? What are the major strategy approaches to alcoholism to substance abuse? How do we determine which community resources are available and more importantly, who and when to refer our system-involved youth and/or their family members to for greater support with alcoholism and substance use? In this training, we will answer those questions and explore how service/support providers can enhance their capacity to support sustainable behavior change with system-involved youth and/or their families who may be caught up in alcoholism and substance use. In addition to the didactic parts of this training, we will also have a chance to connect with each other by utilizing discussion groups, roleplays, and mindfulness self-regulation activities. This workshop will fulfill what is required by Sections 4980.41, 4980.80, 4980.90, 4996.2, 4996.17, & 4999.32 of the Barclays Official California Code of Regulations for Continuing Education Requirements for Marriage & Family Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Educational Psychologists, & Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors.