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.

This course will focus on managing social anxiety and loneliness for system-involved youth using three social-emotional learning competency domains: self-awareness, social awareness, and relationship skills. CASEL.(n.d.) Through didactic, collaborative, and interactive learning, participants will explore how social-emotional learning is essential to mental health and wellness and how using creative arts-based tools can teach self-compassion and build healthy connections with others. These activities will help staff provide thoughtful services to improve the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of system-involved youth in care. Participants will recognize how our social interactions improve as we develop greater insight and connection with ourselves.

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.

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 […]

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 […]

A suggested method for supporting system-involved youth (SIY) in transcending their negative past experiences is to effectively engage them in accessing their hereditary strengths, talents, and passions, enhanced with future envisioning, and performance coaching towards building a life that is constructive, inspires joy, is fun, and 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 interactive training, we will explore how to enhance our capacity to support SIY by exploring Strengths-based Coaching Techniques (outlined in the above paragraph) that foster the relationship with SIY and sparks motivation to get them […]

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.

Learn what a system-involved youth’s challenging behaviors are attempting to communicate! While it is necessary to understand the function of the child’s behaviors (since it is a communication to us), we also need to understand what this means in the context of the family relationships. This understanding will allow us to better support caregivers and teachers as they attempt to help system-involved youth to be successful in school, maintain a placement, be reunited with family, etc.

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).

During this introductory training, participants will have an overview of depression as it relates to youth. The training will provide a brief overview on the causes of depression and what possible symptoms are for youth. Participants will gain practical skills to assess, respond to, and support a youth who is experiencing depression symptoms.

The focus of this training is to help resource parents understand the difficulties that foster youth may face around holidays, a time when family traditions are often celebrated. Discussion regarding grief and loss, triggers, identity and belonging, and possible overstimulation. Case scenarios are presented for different developmental levels-age groups. General strategies offered such as preparing kids ahead of time, offering choice, honor their heritage, normalizing feelings and present regulation tools. A variety of fun and inclusive activity ideas include holiday rituals for Christmas and Thanksgiving, and New Years.

This training helps participants reframe the behaviors of foster youth and system-involved youth with developmental delays through a neurodevelopmental and strengths-based lens. Using reflection activities and practical strategies, attendees will learn how neurological differences affect behavior, communication, and emotional regulation. The session emphasizes how to shift from compliance-based approaches to connection-based support, using tools that foster trust. By attending, professionals will gain insight into how to interpret behavior as communication and provide more affirming, effective support within systems that often misunderstand these youth.

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).

Youth in the foster care system are often pathologized and labeled with diagnoses that highlight problems within youth. This training provides context to the diagnoses that are assigned to youth, and the contextual considerations that may influence mental health needs and conditions. Within this training, participants will also review screening tools that are used in order to understand youth’s needs. Participants will have opportunities for reflection and group discussion. Additionally, participants will be encouraged to practice ways of uncovering youth’s needs with them.

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-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

There is a large need in California for serving monolingual Spanish Speaking LatinX families through service delivery. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough bilingual providers to meet the growing need. Therefore, it is imperative to build on our knowledge and skills in working with translators and interpreters in the field while remaining therapeutic and culturally responsive. In this workshop, we will review the best practices that the literature addresses when providing linguistically appropriate and culturally responsive services with the use of translators and interpreters.

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 […]

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, […]

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.

Many system-involved youth and young adults struggle with mood disruptions so it’s crucial for providers to know how to support them. This training will build off “Strategies to support system-involved youth with mood disruptions.” This training will provide you with additional strategies to support youth with mood disruptions, how and when to involve parents/caregivers, and how parents/caregivers can support their youth with a mood disruption. This training will also include discussions around common co-occurring conditions youth and young adults may struggle with and school-related challenges. 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

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.

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.

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 […]

Part 2 of Crisis Prevention Intervention focuses on building a stronger foundation in Crisis Prevention Interventions. This phase of training will enhance participants’ ability to apply these strategies effectively in real-world situations. The emphasis will be on identifying early warning signs and taking proactive steps to de-escalate potential crises before they turn violent. Additionally, the training will cover advanced communication techniques and strategies for staying calm and in control during high-pressure moments. Participants will also learn how to maintain the integrity of their professional relationships while ensuring the safety of themselves and those they care for. This well-rounded approach prepares human service professionals to effectively navigate the challenges of working […]

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.

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.

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

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

Resource parent orientation brings an overview to the Child Welfare System and Aldea’s role in serving and protecting children who are foster youth in California. Included in this training are the caregiver’s responsibilities, Aldea’s approval process, competencies for Resource family approval, the application process and home health and safety inspections and making your home ready for receiving a foster youth.

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 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 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

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.

Many system-involved youth and young adults struggle with mood disruptions so it’s crucial for providers to know how to support them. This training will build off “Strategies to support system-involved youth with mood disruptions.” This training will provide you with additional strategies to support youth with mood disruptions, how and when to involve parents/caregivers, and how parents/caregivers can support their youth with a mood disruption. This training will also include discussions around common co-occurring conditions youth and young adults may struggle with and school-related challenges. 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

This training focuses on helping professionals and youth learn to develop strong communication skills and express themselves confidently through storytelling and public speaking.

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.

In the first segment of this training, participants will discuss how to identify when crisis communication is needed and how to utilize a self-control plan to remain calm in crisis. This training will also review key principles of crisis communication such as using short sentences, focus on the desired behavior, use of voice tone, and the importance of body language.

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.

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

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.

Youth coming to the Alameda County Assessment Center have often gone through a recent traumatic event which may result in suicidal ideation or behaviors. Providers attending this training will learn methods of assessing youth for risk of suicide or other self-harm, identify warning signs, and protective factors. Participants will learn about the Pediatric Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale and Suicide Assessment Five Step Evaluation and Triage approach. Participants will also practice how to intervene to address the youth’s immediate safety and treatment needs.

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.

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 […]

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 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 to better support system-involved youth. In this session there will be an opportunity for participants to practice preparing for courageous conversations, having courageous conversations, and practice concrete next steps that allows for safe-to-fail opportunities to deepen their skills to navigate conflict and communicate more effectively. Participants will engage in individual reflection, large group and small group discussions, and somatic activities that will support deeper learning and embodiment of the material for them within efforts to support system-involved youth.

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

This 4.5-hour course is designed to provide staff serving in Group Homes and STRTP’s the skills to enhance Pro-Social behaviors when working with youth suffering from fragile attachments with original caregivers.

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.

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

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

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.

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, participants will be exposed to a basic understanding of the LatinX population, including the difference between Hispanics, LatinX, and other most commonly used references towards this population. The curriculum will have a concentration in the area of trauma, including historical and intergenerational trauma that LatinX families may experience in their country of origin, in their immigration journey, and while residing in the United States. We will also discuss cultural factors and considerations when providing treatment to LatinX families, including challenges in treatment, and terminology as well as translation of key terms. Lastly, we will review strategies/best practices when delivering services in the different phases of treatment, including […]

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.

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 […]

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

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.