Foster Care Training

The Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5) was released in May 2013. This course provides an overview of the DSM 5 with attention to the revised organizational structure and changes from the DSM IV including new diagnoses. This information is critical for child welfare workers in understanding the mental health issues of the children and families they provide services to. The potential causes of mental illness are reviewed and a brief history of the DSM since it was first published in 1952 is provided. The course also discusses controversies in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders including the rising prevalence of mental illness, the use of psychotropic medications, and issues regarding the diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents. The DSM 5 is reviewed with new categories discussed including Neurodevelopmental Disorders (i.e. Autism and ADHD) and Neurocognitive Disorders (formerly Delirium and Dementia). The new sections for Bipolar Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders are reviewed. New diagnoses are explained including Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Binge Eating, Hoarding and Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorders. Changes to Schizophrenia, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Conduct Disorder (Callous and Unemotional Specifier) are also reviewed. Learning Objectives:

1. To understand the organizational structure, substantive changes, and new diagnoses in the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5).
2. To understand the relevance of the DSM 5 to providing services to children, youth and families.
3. To understand the history of the DSM and how it has evolved over time.
4. To review current issues in mental health including the origins and prevalence of mental illness, increased use of psychotropic medications, and diagnoses and treatment of children and adolescence.

This course meets the qualifications for 6 BBS CEUs for LCSWs and MFTs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences & is provided by A Better Way, Inc., Provider #PCE387.

This training is FREE, including no fees for Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Registration Deadline: April 8, 2015