Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience trauma from physical abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, neglect, seclusion, restraint, institutionalization, abandonment, and bullying at rates higher than the general population. Professionals in the disability field have historically relied on behavior management strategies with compliance as the primary goal to address challenging behaviors with limited consideration of the potential for underlying trauma. Likewise, professionals working in the mental health field often lack expertise and experience when working with children with IDD.
Participants will learn basic knowledge, skills, and values about working with children with IDD who have had traumatic experiences and how to use this knowledge to support children's safety, well-being, happiness, and recovery through trauma-informed practice. Training activities, including small group exercises, analysis of case vignettes, and discussion, will also encourage exploration of assumptions and attitudes that providers may bring to these cases that may help or hinder their ability to do the work needed. The setting will allow providers to immediately apply ideas, practice problem-solving skills, and learn from each other.
This two day training includes six modules. Each module has 3-4 learning objectives that teach 10 essential messages. Participants, no matter their role or current position at work, will leave with practical tools they can begin using immediately in their interactions with their students/clients and their families to promote an environment conducive for recovery where risk factors are reduced and protective factors are increased.
Note: 12 hours of Continuing Education credits offered for Teachers (SBEC), Licensed Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors, and 10 hours of CPD NASP credits for LSSPs.