Foster Care Training

Some children can’t tell you what’s wrong, but their bodies will. Their behaviors will. Their avoidance, shutdown, or outburst is often the clearest form of communication they have. This session invites professionals to pay closer attention to what the senses are trying to say.

The Tree of Life (TOL) was created as a way to safely engage young people around the trauma they have experienced. The exercise is designed to invite youth to share multiple facets of themselves allowing youth care workers to hear/witness many stories about what the youth give value to.

This training is designed to help those working with youth and families to explore how they make meaning around their experiences.

This course is designed for supervisors of youth professionals and will explore the Ecological Lens including how we understand the impact of identity, community, and context around youth and families on their well-being.

The purpose of this training is to create a renewed and heightened awareness of boundary issues in work with foster youth. Having boundaries is not just a matter of being professional.

Successful conflict resolution requires a bundle of skill sets. Observation skills, communication skills, and problem-solving skills, just to name a few. Through experiential activities, we will take a deep-dive into the skills required for successful conflict resolution and explore how service providers can teach system involved youth what they need to peacefully solve conflict. In addition, we navigate the interplay between conflict resolution and restorative practices in the educational setting.

This two-hour course is designed to support STRTP administrators and staff in developing a foundation of focused counseling strategies, techniques and principles, to build strong, helpful, and mutually respectful connections.

This training offers a clear framework for building home environments that work for neurodivergent children and youth, especially those involved in the foster care and juvenile justice systems.

This training offers a clear framework for building home environments that work for neurodivergent children and youth, especially those involved in the foster care and juvenile justice systems.

This course will support emotional regulation for autistic children and youth in care. Participants will explore the cognitive theories of autism. Through hands-on interactive activities and dynamic discussion, participants will learn strategies to address perspective-taking, sensory, executive functioning, and problem-solving. This workshop will discuss and explore the concept of emotional regulation and how using creative tools can calm the mind and body, increase self-control, teach flexibility, and build healthy social connections. Through interactive, hands-on, arts-based activities, participants will discover practical techniques that promote physical and emotional regulation and reduce the frequency and duration of emotional dysregulation.

This specialized training is designed for professionals who provide care and support to individuals whom exhibit challenging or potentially assaultive behavior. Participants will gain essential skills and strategies for effectively managing high-stress situations and preventing violent behavior. The course covers recognizing early signs of escalation, employing de-escalation techniques, and maintaining control through clear, assertive communication. Emphasis is placed on creating a safe environment for both the system involved youth and the caregiver while fostering mutual respect. Through interactive exercises, role-playing, and real-world case studies, participants will develop practical skills to safely navigate difficult situations, reducing the risk of conflict and ensuring the well-being of all involved. Participants will leave this […]

One of the most significant challenges for those supporting system-involved youth (SIY) is to effectively engage them to transcend their past experiences and what they lack in terms of life skills, network, and social-emotional development towards building a life that is constructive, inspires joy, is fun, promotes success in social settings, academics, and career related activities, and brings about a feeling of security in the individual that leads to healthy engagement with community. In this training, we will explore how to enhance our capacity to support system-involved youth (SIY) by exploring How to Cultivate Strengths in SIY and Provide Guidance on Identifying and Fostering Environmental Supports that will provide current […]

This 3-hour course will focus on research on the reasons system-involved youth self-harm and evidenced based skills to support the decrease in self-harm behaviors. Attendees will discuss how to balance risk assessment with youth empowerment, taking a harm reduction stance when appropriate. Attendees will review effective means of engaging caregivers, whether needing to break confidentiality or support youth in voluntarily sharing their self-harm to enhance safety.

“”To heal is to touch with love that which we previously touched with fear”” – Stephen Levine Codependency and interrupted attachment bonds impact our youths’ capacity for relational repair. This course will offer providers topics and themes for exploration with youth in care who experience protective responses in ways that keep them from building secure bonds. Participants will spend time self-reflecting, resource sharing, and honing skills to support foster and systems-impacted youth whose childhood experiences have shaped their emotional bonds and attachment styles. We will explore the brain and body’s response to perceived relational threats to build a foundation of understanding for effective healing and intervention. By tapping into relational […]

This training will support participants to develop common language and frameworks for navigating challenging conversations, practicing accountability, and building a culture of trust on their teams and in their programs.

Participants will discuss several different categories of behavior support strategies to use with youth including individual and group support strategies as well as crisis communication techniques. Participants will learn how to prepare youth to support themselves and work toward their goals when they are no longer in care. Didactic presentation, group discussion, art and visualization exercises are utilized.

This training is for providers who work with system impacted youth. Eligible participants are Alameda county providers, Teachers, Case Managers, and After School Support Staff. In this training, the facilitator will provide information about tools and strategies to develop lasting, supportive relationships with system impacted youth. Trainer will facilitate interactive group discussions and provide case examples to allow participants to explore various approaches to building rapport, offering support, and empowering youth to thrive. By focusing on trust-building, effective communication, and understanding the systemic factors that impact youth, participants will dive into the essential components of creating safe and nurturing environments that foster positive youth development.

“This training will equip service/support providers and caregivers of system-involved youth (SIY) with essential skills to support children and youth who communicate in nontraditional ways. This interactive course explores the nuances of nonverbal communication, such as body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone, while introducing practical tools to enhance understanding and connection. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to build trust and foster meaningful relationships with children and youth who are nonverbal or have limited verbal abilities. Through engaging activities and real-world scenarios, participants will build the following skills: ● Recognize Nonverbal Cues: Learn how to interpret body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone to understand what a child or […]

In this course, participants will gain a generalized concept of MI. Participants will be introduced to the spirit of MI, Righting Reflex, and OARS (open-ended, affirmations, reflections, and summary). Participants will have the opportunity to work in small groups, engage in various activities, and receive tangible examples to use during their work with system-involved youth and families. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout).

This is a live instructor-led remote course, with pre-requisites to complete before the course date. Instructors will email you in advance of the course date with additional details to complete pre-work online. Mental Health First Aid is a certification course that teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis. The content is applicable for supporting any person, however special emphasis will be placed on how to use […]

This training is for providers who work with system impacted youth. Eligible participants are service providers working with system impacted youth and families. In this training, the facilitator will provide information to help participants understand and effectively navigate their role in providing behavioral guidance to system-impacted youth. Trainer will facilitate interactive group discussions and provide case examples to allow participants to learn strategies for supporting positive behavioral development, promoting self-regulation, and creating a safe, structured environment. Emphasis will be placed on building trusting relationships, setting clear expectations, and using positive reinforcement techniques that align with the needs and experiences of system-impacted youth.

This training is designed to explore the idea, causes and effects of self-injurious behavior. Upon completion of the training, participants will have a basic understanding of how and why clients engage in self-injurious behavior. Participants will also have a set of strategies to respond to the needs of those clients.

Through Lecture, handouts and discussion, participants of this three hour training will explore important issues related to the Bipolar Disorder I & II diagnoses in youth. The group will examine symptoms, differential diagnoses and treatment options particularly in milieu settings. Participants will be able to share thoughts and treatment plans with peers for system-involved clients diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression.

During the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, many people have experienced increased levels of fight or flight/sympathetic dominance. We all need strategies to address our fear, anger, overwhelm and stress. In this course participants will have a chance to talk about their experiences over the last few weeks, explore how they can better help themselves and their clients manage stress now and when things return to the ‘new’ normal. They will learn simple exercises from the field of energy medicine and energy psychology which they can use to regulate their own nervous systems and teach system involved youth and families. Material will be taught through lecture, small group discussion, large group and […]

The challenges of dual diagnoses include knowledge of actual substance usage, correct mental health diagnoses, treatment options and how youth in care might be affected by all of the above. Families involved in various systems including foster care, child protection, juvenile and adult penal and emergency response are often dealing with two or more diagnoses in a caregiver or youth. Learning who they are, where they come from and why they do what they do can help the helpers deal with inherent challenges when working with these populations. In this course, we will delve into all of those issues through didactic lecture, interactive discussion, article/research sharing and case example(s).

This training provides a grounding in the foundations of Play Therapy as well as its applications for children with trauma, children and youth in crisis setting, and applying play based practices across the life span of developing youth. Play therapy continues to be one of the primary interventions recommended by the American Psychological Association for therapeutic intervention treating children with trauma and mental health symptoms.

This training provides a grounding in the foundations of Play Therapy as well as its applications for children with trauma, children and youth in crisis setting, and applying play based practices across the life span of developing youth. Play therapy continues to be one of the primary interventions recommended by the American Psychological Association for therapeutic intervention treating children with trauma and mental health symptoms.

This training provides a grounding in the foundations of Play Therapy as well as its applications for children with trauma, children and youth in crisis setting, and applying play based practices across the life span of developing youth. Play therapy continues to be one of the primary interventions recommended by the American Psychological Association for therapeutic intervention treating children with trauma and mental health symptoms.

Peer pressure impacts many system-involved youth and at-risk youth. Developmentally, teens are seeking approval from their peers, placing them at heightened risk for succumbing to social influence. Join us as we provide an overview of adolescent development and the impact of social influence on teens. This training will equip participants to have conversations with system-involved youth about peer pressure as well as strategies to teach them for how to navigate peer pressure.

This training provides participants and caregivers with understanding of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and the impact on system-involved youth and families. Participants will learn to recognize the neurological, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges associated with FASD, distinguish these from other behavioral health and developmental conditions, and apply trauma-informed, FASD-sensitive strategies to support youth across systems of care. Through case vignettes, breakout discussions, and skill-building exercises, attendees will gain the tools needed to create collaborative, strengths-based plans that improve outcomes for foster youth and families.

This introductory training is designed to foster a deep understanding of neurodiversity and equip participants with practical strategies for promoting inclusivity and advocating for the rights of neurodiverse individuals. This training will delve into the diverse spectrum of neurodiverse conditions, their impact on various environments, and the significance of creating accommodating spaces that celebrate differences. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain valuable insights and tools to create an inclusive and supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals in their communities, workplaces, and educational institutions. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout).

This training explores how ableism frames disability and neurodivergence as deficits, shaping expectations, limiting opportunities, and marginalizing youth. Participants examine how ableist thinking is internalized and reflected in language, practices, and institutions, including everyday terms that tie human worth to productivity and compliance. Using disability justice as a guiding framework, the session affirms interdependence, collective care, and accountability, while inviting reflection on social conditioning and offering strategies to disrupt ableist patterns and support neurodivergent youth in liberatory, sustainable ways.

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish, provides an overview of racial bias within learning environments and ways to address it. Participants will gain an understanding of what racial bias is, how it manifests in learning environments, and its impact on scholars. Learn strategies for addressing racial bias in learning environments and advancing racial equity. The training will emphasize the importance of cultural competence training for educators. Overall, professionals working with system-involved youth will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address racial bias within their learning environment and create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all scholars. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short […]

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish-Language, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish-Language, on Communication Skills is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various communication scenarios. Participants will explore the intricacies of active listening, learning how to truly understand others’ perspectives and respond appropriately. Additionally, participants will sharpen their verbal communication skills, mastering techniques for articulating ideas with clarity and confidence. This training will uncover the often-overlooked realm of nonverbal communication, shedding light on the subtle cues that can significantly influence interactions. Participants will gain insights into body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal signals, enabling them to better interpret others’ messages and convey their own intentions more […]

Cultural competency training was the focus of many providers who were serving increasingly more diverse population, with the idea that if they could become more culturally sensitive or competent, that they could provide better care for their patients. While the intention was a good one, the dynamic it often set up was that they were still the expert, the client was ‘the other,’ and ultimately that the providers knew better than the clients and what the clients’ experience was and needs were. Through a process of self-reflection, identifying our different locations of identity, which parts have been historically excluded and which parts of our identity have been historically included, participants […]

This training, facilitated fully in Spanish-Language, aims to equip those who support system-involved youth and families with the knowledge and skills of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and its application in the context of the Stages of Change. Participants will learn how to effectively engage, support and empower system-involved youth and families at different stages of change, especially within the process of identifying strengths and needs and well as service and support planning efforts. Through interactive exercises, case studies, and role-plays, participants will enhance their ability to apply MI techniques and facilitate positive behavior change in this unique population. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, […]

This training, facilitated fully in Spanish, is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach system-involved youth and their caregivers how to prioritize their well-being and develop a positive sense of self-worth. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to neglect ourselves and struggle with feelings of inadequacy. This training offers a holistic approach for addressing these challenges. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and practical exercises, participants will explore the concept of compassion fatigue and strategies to prevent or manage it in order to maintain physical and emotional health. Delve into the connection between these strategies and the development of self-worth, empowering participants to not only recognize […]

This training, facilitated fully in Spanish, provides professionals working with system-involved youth and families with an understanding of the juvenile justice system and how to support youth and families who are involved in the system. Participants will gain knowledge of the laws, policies and procedures that govern the juvenile justice system, and learn best practices for working with system-involved youth and families. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

This training will be provided in two parts: (Part 1) Facilitation Fundamentals and (Part 2) Advanced Facilitation. Participants can attend one or both Parts and will deepen their understanding of the importance of required elements in a Child and Family Team meeting, and be able to practice facilitation strategies and address common challenges that can arise in these meetings when working to improve outcomes for foster youth and other system-involved youth.

This training will be provided in two parts: (Part 1) Facilitation Fundamentals and (Part 2) Advanced Facilitation. Participants can attend one or both Parts and will deepen their understanding of the importance of required elements in a Child and Family Team meeting, and be able to practice facilitation strategies and address common challenges that can arise in these meetings when working to improve outcomes for foster youth and other system-involved youth.

Working with caregivers can be challenging, but this interactive training is designed to equip providers with the practical skills and confidence you need. Throughout the session, the presenter will guide you through the caregiver consultation process, aligned with the four phases of Adlerian play. You’ll see brief video examples to illustrate best practices and learn how to effectively engage with each of the Personality Priorities. Come prepared to participate, develop new techniques, and gain valuable insights on supporting system involved families as they navigate their child’s development and family life.

Transition Age Youth (TAY) are youth typically between 16-26 years of age who are transitioning from being minors and individuating into young adulthood. For youth in foster care and in juvenile justice continuums of care, this transition is significantly more difficult than it is for youth not in these systems. Sadly, youth coming out of our systems have poor outcomes into adulthood. Let’s try something different! This training will allow us to look at some additional ways to include the extended family and other “natural” support systems in the lives of TAY as they make this very difficult transition. This is the single largest developmental transition that we make as […]

Sibling relationships are among the most significant and lasting bonds in a child’s life, providing identity, stability, and emotional support. For children and youth in foster care, maintaining sibling connections can serve as a protective factor against trauma, loss, and instability. This interactive training will examine the developmental, emotional, and cultural importance of sibling bonds, the systemic and legal barriers that often disrupt them, and strategies to preserve and strengthen these relationships. Through case examples, research insights, and applied practice tools, participants will gain skills to better support sibling connections and advocate for policies that prioritize family continuity.

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish, provides an overview of racial bias within learning environments and ways to address it. Participants will gain an understanding of what racial bias is, how it manifests in learning environments, and its impact on scholars. Learn strategies for addressing racial bias in learning environments and advancing racial equity. The training will emphasize the importance of cultural competence training for educators. Overall, professionals working with system-involved youth will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address racial bias within their learning environment and create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all scholars. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short […]

While the larger human trafficking narrative has focused on child sex trafficking, it’s equally as important to discuss child labor trafficking. This training will provide an overview of child labor trafficking in the United States, including what it is, risk factors and pathways of entry. Participants will also hear about warning signs someone is being labor trafficked and recommendations to support labor trafficking survivors. Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish-Language, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

This introductory training will be facilitated in English and Spanish-Language and provides service/support providers and caregivers of system-involved youth with practical, evidence-based tools and strategies to promote healing, stability, and resilience. Using a trauma-informed approach, participants will learn how to navigate the unique needs of children and youth impacted by child welfare, juvenile justice, and behavioral health systems. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities, participants will build skills to strengthen relationships, support emotional regulation, and effective collaboration with other providers, while honoring each youth’s lived experience.

When caring for and supporting foster youth you can often face challenges of crises, placement instability, or system pressures. These can lead to quick decisions or unintended consequences for youth and families, especially when the needs and strengths of youth are not maintained as a guiding force. This training focuses on the importance of self-reflection, humility and self-care as a means of building capacity to deliver care for foster youth who experience trauma.

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Often their involvement in foster care becomes a risk factor for victimization. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate treatment and services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training will address the importance of early identification and will present the Commercially Sexually Exploited Identification Tool (CSE-IT) as a method of screening and identifying of commercially sexually […]

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Often their involvement in foster care becomes a risk factor for victimization. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate treatment and services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training will address the importance of early identification and will present the Commercially Sexually Exploited Identification Tool (CSE-IT) as a method of screening and identifying of commercially sexually […]

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Often their involvement in foster care becomes a risk factor for victimization. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate treatment and services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training will address the importance of early identification and will present the Commercially Sexually Exploited Identification Tool (CSE-IT) as a method of screening and identifying of commercially sexually […]

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish-Language, on Communication Skills is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various communication scenarios. Participants will explore the intricacies of active listening, learning how to truly understand others’ perspectives and respond appropriately. Additionally, participants will sharpen their verbal communication skills, mastering techniques for articulating ideas with clarity and confidence. This training will uncover the often-overlooked realm of nonverbal communication, shedding light on the subtle cues that can significantly influence interactions. Participants will gain insights into body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal signals, enabling them to better interpret others’ messages and convey their own intentions more […]

Crisis Prevention Interventions focuses on early intervention and non-physical methods for managing disruptive and aggressive behaviors. Trainers will explore effective communication techniques and the physiological responses that occur during moments of aggression, along with the core philosophy of Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security, which underpins the training. Human service professionals worldwide have participated in CPI programs to learn proven strategies for safely managing situations involving anxious, hostile, or violent behavior, all while preserving therapeutic relationships with those under their care.

This training is designed to introduce prospective Resource Families to the Child Welfare System and the role of a resource parent. Participants will receive an overview of the steps to becoming a resource parent with Alternative Family Services.

This training is designed to introduce prospective Resource Families to the Child Welfare System and the role of a resource parent. Participants will receive an overview of the steps to becoming a resource parent with Alternative Family Services.

This training is designed to introduce prospective Resource Families to the Child Welfare System and the role of a resource parent. Participants will receive an overview of the steps to becoming a resource parent with Alternative Family Services.

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. This training is a framework for engaging with sexually exploited youth and will offer suggestions for talking with youth.

Given the prevalence of trauma, it’s important for caregivers to learn about trauma and how to best support their youth. Youth may turn to maladaptive coping skills such as self-harm or substance abuse. They may struggle academically and even behaviorally. They may withdraw or exhibit many other behaviors. It can be hard to make sense of their emotions and behaviors in the wake of trauma. This training will better equip you to talk with caregivers about their youth’s trauma and how best to support them. Register Here

While the holiday season can be a joyous time for many, it can also be difficult time. It is a time of year that many experience sadness, loneliness and increased stressors. For many system-involved youth this can be exacerbated as they are not with their families. This training will discuss risk factors and contributing factors for holiday unhappiness and stressors. You will also learn strategies to support system-involved youth who may be struggling during this time of year. Register Here

Trauma can impact one’s understanding and experience of intimacy, and given the high rates of sexual abuse amongst foster youth, it’s important that social service providers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to talk about relationships, dating and sex after sexual abuse. Despite how common this can be amongst sexual abuse survivors; it is often not addressed in services. Trainer will discuss how trauma impacts one’s relationship with sex and how to support transitional age youth in developing a healthier understanding and experience of sex. Register Here

This training will cover who are Mandated Reporters and their responsibilities to report child abuse, types of child abuse and neglect, accidental vs purposeful abuse and what, when and where to report abuse. Protection for reporters and penalties for failure to report. This training is intended for those that work with children and youth within the child welfare system or are at-risk of entering. This includes child welfare workers, resource parents, youth sports coaches, youth mentors, teachers and volunteers/staff working with this population. Register Here

Some caregivers of system-involved youth have struggled or are struggling with substance use. It is important for care and service providers, foster parents and natural supports to understand the impact caregiver substance use has on youths’ development. This training will provide an overview of how caregiver substance use impacts youths’ physical development, social development, academic development and emotional development. Care and service providers, foster parents and natural supports will learn strategies for how to support system-involved youth when caregiver substance use is prevalent. Register Here

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training is a framework for engaging with sexually exploited youth and will offer suggestions for talking with youth.

It is important for caregivers of system-involved youth to learn how to develop the prefrontal cortexes of their children so they can be successful in academic and career related activities, build networks of support, and avoid using drugs and compulsive behavior to self-medicate. In this training, we will explore rapport building strategies which can be both used with caregivers and taught to caregivers. We will also learn strategies for fostering skills in caregivers for Leadership by Facilitation and self-regulation that empower caregivers to have effective, sensitive topic conversations with their children. We will also explore situational leader coaching points that can prepare us to foster caregiver ability to effectively influence […]

This training is designed to prepare resource families to work with youth in the foster care system. Participants will receive a better understanding of the foster care system structure and explore how to provide a well-planned, safe, and secure environment designed to meet children’s individual and unique needs, and how to create an environment that promotes children’s social emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Participants will continue to review; Interim Licensing Standard, Child Growth and Development, Medication Guidelines, Discipline, Working with Biological Families and understanding the Effects of Trauma.

This training is designed to prepare resource families to work with youth in the foster care system. Participants will receive a better understanding of the foster care system structure and explore how to provide a well-planned, safe, and secure environment designed to meet children’s individual and unique needs, and how to create an environment that promotes children’s social emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Participants will continue to review; Interim Licensing Standard, Child Growth and Development, Medication Guidelines, Discipline, Working with Biological Families and understanding the Effects of Trauma.

Triggers are common for individuals who have been exposed to trauma. They can show up immediately or sometime after the trauma. They can be confusing and difficult to navigate without adequate support. This training will provide an overview of trauma and triggers, common types of trauma triggers and strategies to support system-involved youth and young adults who are being triggered. Register Here

This training provides an introductory overview of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) including: basic definitions, significant laws and legislation, and a discussion on risk factors that contribute to a child’s vulnerability to be recruited or groomed into exploitation. This training also describes how complex trauma can create vulnerabilities for youth at risk for exploitation, providing trainees the opportunity to learn about trauma informed care practices.

Given that alcohol consumption is prevalent amongst adults and youth, it’s important for social service providers to understand the potential harms associated with alcohol misuse as it can impact relationships, learning environments and performance and work, even prenatal development. This will provide an overview of alcohol misuse amongst youth and adults and strategies to consume alcohol responsibly. Additionally, the training will discuss fetal alcohol misuse and exposure symptoms, including discussions about what it is, risk factors, screening and how to support someone with it. Register Here

For individuals who have experienced trauma, healthcare settings can be intimidating and even triggering. It’s important to learn how to support and advocate for trauma survivors to ensure they stay on top of their health. This training will provide participants with strategies to support trauma survivors at medical appointments and dentist appointments. Register Here

While the larger human trafficking narrative has focused on child sex trafficking, it’s equally as important to discuss child labor trafficking. This training will provide an overview of child labor trafficking in the United States, including what it is, risk factors and pathways of entry. Participants will also hear about warning signs someone is being labor trafficked and recommendations to support labor trafficking survivors. Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

In work with system involved youth and families there are numerous legal and ethical considerations to keep in mind. In this class participants will learn: 1) California telehealth legal codes and telehealth professional codes of ethics including: informed consent, privacy, working with people out of state, preparing for crisis, and handling technology failure; 2) research on telemental health; 3) best practicing when providing online health and mental services; This class meets the 3 hour, one time requirement for a telemental health course for all registrants and licensed mental health providers. *this is only for participants registered for the 06/06/25 training who only want CE credit for the Telehealth portion of […]

The purpose of this training is to create a renewed and heightened awareness of boundary issues in work with foster youth. Having boundaries is not just a matter of being professional.

The purpose of this training is to create a renewed and heightened awareness of boundary issues in work with foster youth. Having boundaries is not just a matter of being professional.

The purpose of this training is to create a renewed and heightened awareness of boundary issues in work with foster youth. Having boundaries is not just a matter of being professional. Appropriate boundaries are a key ingredient in providing the children in our care with the highest quality of care, which often times requires us to build trusting and healing relationships with them.

This training will provide examples of extraordinary frameworks that could improve safety, well-being, and permanency outcomes for children in out-of-home care and how they can be used to find families of children who have no families and help permanently connect children with their kin.

Across the nation, system-involved youth (SIY) are experiencing a rising increase of emotional and behavioral health needs which can negatively affect them in the core areas of their life. All too often, these young people are subjected to unnecessary hospitalizations, long stays in inpatient facilities, juvenile justice system involvement, disproportionate school discipline, and out-of-home placements.. For too many youth, these crises end tragically. All SIY and their families should have access to robust crisis response strategies that address their needs equitably and effectively with appropriate and timely support delivered for optimum results. In this training, we will explore how to enhance our capacity to support SIY & their families encumbered […]

This course will discuss the two major reasons that professionals working with youth and families don’t always live up to our preferred self: crisis and burnout. Participants will have an opportunity to discuss prevention plans for both barriers, including developing a self-control plan for times of crisis and a self-care plan during times of burnout.

This training explores the purpose of actively working with youth in care to help them meet preferred behaviors. The training highlights four things to think about in any given situation before choosing how to support youth: your personal state, the desired outcome, the situation and environment, and which approach to use. Didactic presentation, group discussion, art and visualization exercises are utilized.

Given the prevalence of trauma, it’s important for caregivers to learn about trauma and how to best support their youth. Youth may turn to maladaptive coping skills such as self-harm or substance abuse. They may struggle academically and even behaviorally. They may withdraw or exhibit many other behaviors. It can be hard to make sense of their emotions and behaviors in the wake of trauma. This training will better equip you to talk with caregivers about their youth’s trauma and how best to support them. Register Here

While the holiday season can be a joyous time for many, it can also be difficult time. It is a time of year that many experience sadness, loneliness and increased stressors. For many system-involved youth this can be exacerbated as they are not with their families. This training will discuss risk factors and contributing factors for holiday unhappiness and stressors. You will also learn strategies to support system-involved youth who may be struggling during this time of year. Register Here

Trauma can impact one’s understanding and experience of intimacy, and given the high rates of sexual abuse amongst foster youth, it’s important that social service providers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to talk about relationships, dating and sex after sexual abuse. Despite how common this can be amongst sexual abuse survivors; it is often not addressed in services. Trainer will discuss how trauma impacts one’s relationship with sex and how to support transitional age youth in developing a healthier understanding and experience of sex. Register Here

Some caregivers of system-involved youth have struggled or are struggling with substance use. It is important for care and service providers, foster parents and natural supports to understand the impact caregiver substance use has on youths’ development. This training will provide an overview of how caregiver substance use impacts youths’ physical development, social development, academic development and emotional development. Care and service providers, foster parents and natural supports will learn strategies for how to support system-involved youth when caregiver substance use is prevalent. Register Here

With the rise in opioid-related deaths across the nation, an informed community response is needed now more than ever. This training will cover the essential components of opioid overdose care and intranasal naloxone (NARCAN) administration in youth.

With the rise in opioid-related deaths across the nation, an informed community response is needed now more than ever. This training will cover the essential components of opioid overdose care and intranasal naloxone (NARCAN) administration in youth. During an interactive presentation, attendees will learn about what causes opioid overdose through a medical lens as well as how to identify and treat overdose victims as community bystanders as well as while working with youth and families. This training will also cover community harm-reduction resources and places to obtain free NARCAN. The training culminates with a group quiz on the topic covered.

Neighborhood and milieu safety are essential to protecting the health and well-being of both our staff and the youth we serve. While FPFY has strong safety guidelines and response protocols in place, it’s important to remember that staff often enter environments where they have limited control. Even if a unit has been vetted or the neighborhood appears calm, risks can still arise unexpectedly, from a behavioral escalation inside the home to an environmental hazard or danger outside. Because of this, as staff we must proactively engage in strategies that support ongoing awareness and preparedness. This includes understanding environmental cues, following FPFY protocols, and consistently using preventive techniques before, during, and […]

This 4.5-hour course is designed to provide staff serving in Group Homes and STRTP’s the skills to enhance Pro-Social behaviors for staff working with traumatized youth and families.

This training is a continuation of NSSI Part 1 (required) which will also examine case plan options. This 4.5-hour course is designed to provide staff serving in Group Homes and STRTP’s the skills to enhance Pro-Social behaviors for staff working with traumatized youth and families. The aim of the course is to assist adults working with severe emotional disturbance have some clarity about who self injures, why they self injure and myths associated with self injury.

This training will review the rights of youth and young adult in foster care to sexual and reproductive health care and information, to confidentiality of sensitive health information, and the reasonable and prudent parent standard. It will discuss the duties and responsibilities of the assigned case management worker and the foster care provider in ensuring youth and young adults in foster care can obtain sexual and reproductive health services and information.

It is important for social service providers, foster parents, guardians, and natural supports to have ongoing dialogue with system-involved youth about dating, boundaries, and sex. Without these conversations, system-involved youth are left to navigate these topics on their own or with their peers. This training will equip participants to have these crucial conversations which can improve outcomes for system-involved youth.

Come to this training on understanding suicidal ideation (SI) with system-involved youth. This is going to be a training within the context of family because we need the larger team to keep system-involved youth safe. We are going to talk about why youth might choose suicide, things to look for, how we talk about it, and ways to keep system-involved youth safe! However, once youth are safe, our focus will shift to how do we keep them alive and having a future outlook that does not include seeing suicide as a viable option for managing their pain. Additionally, we are going to be learning about the pandemic and suicide.

During this training, participants will review their roles in assessing and intervening to prevent suicide as defined by professional organizational ethics and legal statutes.

During this training, participants will review their roles in assessing and intervening to prevent suicide as defined by professional organizational ethics and legal statutes. Participants will deepen their knowledge and understanding about the drivers to suicidal ideation and what they can do when they are working with a client with suicide risk.

Given that alcohol consumption is prevalent amongst adults and youth, it’s important for social service providers to understand the potential harms associated with alcohol misuse as it can impact relationships, learning environments and performance and work, even prenatal development. This will provide an overview of alcohol misuse amongst youth and adults and strategies to consume alcohol responsibly. Additionally, the training will discuss fetal alcohol misuse and exposure symptoms, including discussions about what it is, risk factors, screening and how to support someone with it. Register Here

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 […]

This training, facilitated fully in Spanish, is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach system-involved youth and their caregivers how to prioritize their well-being and develop a positive sense of self-worth. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to neglect ourselves and struggle with feelings of inadequacy. This training offers a holistic approach for addressing these challenges. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and practical exercises, participants will explore the concept of compassion fatigue and strategies to prevent or manage it in order to maintain physical and emotional health. Delve into the connection between these strategies and the development of self-worth, empowering participants to not only recognize […]

If you are a supervisor and are supervising unlicensed support providers who are working with system-involved youth and their families, this is an important training for you. We will focus on issues of culture in supervision and also on ethical boundaries in supervision and how this parallels boundaries that support providers need to establish and maintain their relationships with system-involved youth and their families.  We will also review the relevance of countertransference in the supervisory relationship and how to help supervisees identify this in order to stay focused on, and most effectively address, the needs of system-involved youth and their families.

Schools are often one of the first places where the challenges of system involvement show up and where opportunities for advocacy can create lasting impact. This training is designed to support school-based providers in strengthening their advocacy skills to better navigate educational systems with youth and families. In this training, the facilitator will provide information that will explore the range of school-based services available, from special education supports (IEPs, 504 Plans) to general counseling, behavioral, and mental health services. Participants will learn practical strategies to partner with caregivers and educators, centering collaboration as a pathway to equity and access. The training highlights ways to prepare caregivers for meetings, uplift their […]

This training presents the agency’s model for understanding the experience of children presenting severely dangerous or disruptive behaviors.

While the holiday season can be a joyous time for many, it can also be a difficult time. It is a time of year that many experience depression, loneliness, and increased pressure. For many system-involved youth this can be exacerbated if they are not with their families. This training will discuss risk factors and contributing factors for holiday depression and anxiety. You will also learn strategies to support system-involved youth who may be struggling during this time of year.

There are numerous legal and ethical issues specific to working with system-involved youth in community-based organizations and school settings. They include consent to privacy; use of electronics to dual relationships; minor consent for mental health treatment; mandatory reporting laws; and foster youth’s rights to reproductive health services and information. Through case vignettes, discussions and lecture, participants will explore the intricacies of these issues.

Autistic system-involved youth are regularly expected to interpret, absorb, and adapt to unspoken social norms in structured environments—such as classrooms, courtrooms, Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, and group homes—without being taught what those expectations are or why they matter. This training provides participants with the tools to identify where those social assumptions live, how they are communicated, and what alternatives exist. Participants will explore how to support autistic system-involved youth in naming, rejecting, or working around neurotypical social demands that may conflict with their natural communication styles. This session centers the dignity of autistic experience while offering practical approaches for reducing misinterpretations, relational ruptures, and environmental pressure in structured settings.

In this training, participants will gain a better understanding of shame and its impact on individuals. Also, participants will explore ways to address shame while building resilience and hope through a compassionate approach to service delivery.

Many system-involved youth struggle with attention deficit and/or hyperactivity. So, it’s important for service/support providers and caregivers to understand these issues in order to best support them. This training will provide an overview of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and how it can present at home and school. The training will also discuss strategies to support system-involved youth with attention deficit and hyperactivity.

Emotion coaching is an evidence-based strategy for helping youth to understand the different emotions they experience, why they occur, and how to handle them. It is a method that can help system-involved youth (SIY) navigate everyday interactions and has been linked to better health, positive social relationships, higher academic achievement, improved behavior, and greater resilience. This training is based on the book “Emotion Coaching with Children & Young People in Schools” and will equip participants with the information needed to apply the practice of “Emotion Coaching” in education and community settings with SIY. Participants will be informed through presenter instruction, a slide presentation, learning application, breakout room sharing, and guided […]

For individuals who have experienced trauma, healthcare settings can be intimidating and even triggering. It’s important to learn how to support and advocate for trauma survivors to ensure they stay on top of their health. This training will provide participants with strategies to support trauma survivors at medical appointments and dentist appointments. Register Here

While the larger human trafficking narrative has focused on child sex trafficking, it’s equally as important to discuss child labor trafficking. This training will provide an overview of child labor trafficking in the United States, including what it is, risk factors and pathways of entry. Participants will also hear about warning signs someone is being labor trafficked and recommendations to support labor trafficking survivors. Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish-Language, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

During this introductory training, facilitated fully in Spanish, designed for caregivers, professionals, social workers, educators and others who work with system-involved youth and families who have experienced trauma. The training will cover the principles of trauma-informed care, the effects of trauma on the brain and body, common responses to trauma, screening and assessment for trauma, trauma-informed communication and language, implementing trauma-informed care in organizations and practices and self-care for providers. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions and participant workbook (handout). Register Here

When caring for and supporting foster youth you can often face challenges of crises, placement instability, or system pressures. These can lead to quick decisions or unintended consequences for youth and families, especially when the needs and strengths of youth are not maintained as a guiding force. This training focuses on the importance of self-reflection, humility and self-care as a means of building capacity to deliver care for foster youth who experience trauma.

The effects of vicarious trauma and implicit bias have been shown in research to cause very harmful consequences to those experiencing them, especially for individuals coping with histories of generational trauma. In this training, the presentation will include: definitions; research on how polyvagal theory can help heal harm from vicarious trauma and implicit bias; an introduction to the neuroscience of the nervous system and brain chemicals; and strategies system-involved youth and their caregivers (who are 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 and implicit bias can have on system-involved […]

In this training attendees will explore crisis interventions, case management approaches and resources using team based care. This training will feature tools and frameworks to provide youth centered trauma-informed care. This training will also use tools to navigate barriers and limitations to services to improve engagement.

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Often their involvement in foster care becomes a risk factor for victimization. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate treatment and services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training will address the importance of early identification and will present the Commercially Sexually Exploited Identification Tool (CSE-IT) as a method of screening and identifying of commercially sexually […]

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Often their involvement in foster care becomes a risk factor for victimization. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate treatment and services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training will address the importance of early identification and will present the Commercially Sexually Exploited Identification Tool (CSE-IT) as a method of screening and identifying of commercially sexually […]

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Often their involvement in foster care becomes a risk factor for victimization. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate treatment and services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training will address the importance of early identification and will present the Commercially Sexually Exploited Identification Tool (CSE-IT) as a method of screening and identifying of commercially sexually […]

This seminar will discuss some of the central issues surrounding community-based services and give participants the opportunity to discuss the benefits and challenges about seeing youth in a wide range of community settings. It will provide discussion about using an expanded frame to provide services to foster children and families in the home, school, community centers, parks and other non-traditional settings. In addition to all the complexities, delivering community based services can provide a new way of working with foster youth that can allow a more expanded way of engaging and creating relationships with youth and foster families.

This course will provide relevant information on foster youth that have immigrated to this country and how to best support them in many environments including school, social services, clinical services, and in the community. The trainer will provide information on immigration trauma including: fears of deportation of self and/or extended family members, discrimination, anxiety regarding accessing resources, traumatic experiences prior to immigration, trauma in the process of immigrating, and post-immigration traumatic experiences. The training focus on how to assess for trauma, create safety and connect foster youth who have experienced immigration trauma with the appropriate care.

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. This training is a framework for engaging with sexually exploited youth and will offer suggestions for talking with youth.

Grief is our natural response to loss. It is a process that is wired into human beings so that we can process painful emotions, identify restorative needs, adapt to unwanted changes, and grow through loss. However, there are multiple internal and external factors that complicate grief, causing this natural process to become stalled or derailed. This training will educate participants about the process of typical grief and common grief complications, as well as offer strategies for bolstering the resilience of system-involved youth (SIY) and families who are adapting to significant loss. This training includes presenter instruction, a slide presentation, learning activities, and explanation of supportive techniques. To increase participant engagement […]

Given the prevalence of trauma, it’s important for caregivers to learn about trauma and how to best support their youth. Youth may turn to maladaptive coping skills such as self-harm or substance abuse. They may struggle academically and even behaviorally. They may withdraw or exhibit many other behaviors. It can be hard to make sense of their emotions and behaviors in the wake of trauma. This training will better equip you to talk with caregivers about their youth’s trauma and how best to support them. Register Here

With a growing awareness of generational trauma, there’s a growing awareness that many parents of system-involved youth have experienced their own trauma. These unhealed wounds can pop up at unexpected times and can make parenting more difficult. This training will provide an overview of trauma triggers that can arise in parents of system-involved youth and strategies to address them.

While the holiday season can be a joyous time for many, it can also be difficult time. It is a time of year that many experience sadness, loneliness and increased stressors. For many system-involved youth this can be exacerbated as they are not with their families. This training will discuss risk factors and contributing factors for holiday unhappiness and stressors. You will also learn strategies to support system-involved youth who may be struggling during this time of year. Register Here

Trauma can impact one’s understanding and experience of intimacy, and given the high rates of sexual abuse amongst foster youth, it’s important that social service providers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to talk about relationships, dating and sex after sexual abuse. Despite how common this can be amongst sexual abuse survivors; it is often not addressed in services. Trainer will discuss how trauma impacts one’s relationship with sex and how to support transitional age youth in developing a healthier understanding and experience of sex. Register Here

Some caregivers of system-involved youth have struggled or are struggling with substance use. It is important for care and service providers, foster parents and natural supports to understand the impact caregiver substance use has on youths’ development. This training will provide an overview of how caregiver substance use impacts youths’ physical development, social development, academic development and emotional development. Care and service providers, foster parents and natural supports will learn strategies for how to support system-involved youth when caregiver substance use is prevalent. Register Here

There are many challenges that providers will face when engaging foster youth in the early stages of service. For providers who have never worked in homes or communities, this may present challenges for knowing ways to provide a structure and supportive framework for care and services. Attention is paid to helping providers develop strategies for engaging youth in services and with systems of care. Participants learn strategies to learn how to overcome dilemmas and barriers to accessing or engaging youth in treatment.

Child sexual exploitation is a major child protection issue for communities across the country. Hidden from view and often unnoticed, vulnerable young girls and boys are recruited, groomed and then abused, leaving them traumatized and without support. Issues specific to sexual exploitation of youth, including the difficulty in identifying youth at risk, can make the provision of appropriate services a challenge for systems that serve the youth. This training is a framework for engaging with sexually exploited youth and will offer suggestions for talking with youth.

This training provides a grounding in the foundations of Play Therapy as well as its applications for children with trauma, children and youth in crisis setting, and applying play based practices across the life span of developing youth. Play therapy continues to be one of the primary interventions recommended by the American Psychological Association for therapeutic intervention treating children with trauma and mental health symptoms.

This training provides a grounding in the foundations of Play Therapy as well as its applications for children with trauma, children and youth in crisis setting, and applying play based practices across the life span of developing youth. Play therapy continues to be one of the primary interventions recommended by the American Psychological Association for therapeutic intervention treating children with trauma and mental health symptoms.

This training provides a grounding in the foundations of Play Therapy as well as its applications for children with trauma, children and youth in crisis setting, and applying play based practices across the life span of developing youth. Play therapy continues to be one of the primary interventions recommended by the American Psychological Association for therapeutic intervention treating children with trauma and mental health symptoms.