The adage of “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” is not really true – Words can hurt, but they can also heal. Please join us for the Words Matter series where we engage in open and authentic discussions about the impact of common terminology used in child serving systems with those that are directly affected. Our goal is to illuminate how the terms we use can influence perception, approach, and practice, as well as explore alternative language as a means of intentionally shifting how we view and interact with youth, families, and each other. … [Read more...] about Words Matter – Minority
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – Where Do We Go From Here?
There is growing recognition that unaddressed Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can greatly impact young people's development and their future well-being. However, what is less well-known is that racism, oppression, and historical trauma have an enormous impact on ACEs and how they perpetuate in families and communities. If we truly want to promote healing from ACEs now and prevent ACEs in the future, then we must address the root causes of ACEs, including racism and oppression. Please join us for an upcoming session that explores preventing ACEs from an equitable and antiracist lens. This panel is co-hosted with PACEsConnection and honors lived experience. Joining in this session will be a young adult with lived experience, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and a community organizer. Together, the panelists will bring their varying perspectives to discuss the connection between ACEs and oppression and effective strategies for taking action. The panelists will explore … [Read more...] about Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – Where Do We Go From Here?
Addressing Racism in Youth Mental Health Services
Trending data continue to demonstrate disparities in mental health diagnoses, access to mental health services, and wellness outcomes for Black and Brown children, adolescents, emerging adults, and their families. One of the root causes of these disparities is racism. Racism has been embedded in the mental health system since the inception of mental health services and has significantly impacted engagement, diagnoses, treatment access, therapeutic options, and outcomes. As providers, clinicians, advocates, and administrators, we have choices. We can ignore these data, blame young people and their families, or take action by looking within and using our power to make a positive difference. If you are ready to take ACTION, please register and join this session! … [Read more...] about Addressing Racism in Youth Mental Health Services
Words Matter Discussion Series – Documentation
Words can hurt, but they can also heal. In the Words Matter series, we engage in open and authentic discussions about the impact of common terminology used in youth-serving systems with those that are directly affected. We examine the terms we use and explore alternative language to shift how we interact with youth, families, and each other. The words and terminology we use to document our work with young people and their families matter. The way we frame a person’s strengths or challenges can impact them for years to come. Our discussants will provide real-life examples of the impact of documentation on their lives and offer suggestions for documenting their experiences better. … [Read more...] about Words Matter Discussion Series – Documentation
Culturally responsive services for BIPOC youth and families and how to implement anti-racist practices in treatment and services
Youth and families who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) have been continuously underserved in mental health services and treatment due to the stigma and racism that exists within the mental health System of Care (SOC). The featured speakers will explore incorporating anti-racist practices and culturally responsive services within mental health services and other SOC applications. … [Read more...] about Culturally responsive services for BIPOC youth and families and how to implement anti-racist practices in treatment and services