Foster Care Training

This ten-hour course will cover topics in aging and long-term care for the LCSW, MFT and Psychologist pre-license education requirement in CA. This course is only for those who entered a degree program on or after 1/1/2004; for all others this is not a pre-licensure requirement. Some myths and stereotypes of aging will be explored, which may influence your ability to effectively assess and treat the elderly, and their children and grandchildren who may be struggling to assist them with a myriad of physical, psychological and social needs. Moreover, when a senior has become a legal guardian of his or her grandchildren, prompt and appropriate assessment of mental status changes is crucial for meeting the needs of both ends of the lifespan. Topics will include: distinguishing “normal” aging changes in intellectual, cognitive and memory functioning from those which are a consequence of disease; introduction to the biopsychosocial model of assessment and psychotherapeutic treatment of older adults; and issues involved when working with the elderly and their families when they confront long-term care. You will also have a chance to challenge assumptions about your own aging and potentially look at issues that may impact how you plan for your life as a senior. It is hoped that you will exit this 2 day training knowing more about how to age well.