A

B

C

D

E

F

Focus on Trauma

A- Focus on Trauma in the District of Columbia Public Schools

Presenter:

Introduction:

District of Columbia Public Schools has recognized the importance of mental health as a precursor to optimal learning. As such, there has been an investment in the human resources dedicated to school mental health work and increasing availability of services that address the cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral repercussions of trauma. In this session, participants will learn about how D.C. Public Schools is addressing this need and the evidence-based treatment options available in all schools.

Return to top of page

B - Trauma and Suicide: Important Considerations for the Children and Adolescents We Serve

Presenter:

Introduction:

Often times the traumatic experiences that result in Family Court involvement lead the children and adolescents involved to contemplate and attempt suicide. This session will provide insight into the unique needs of these young people, so that Family Court professionals can properly identify the risks and fashion strategies to support the District’s youth while preventing suicide. This discussion will be led by Sherry Davis Molock, Ph.D., a local expert in depression, suicidal behaviors and suicide prevention for African Americans.

Return to top of page

Presenter:

Introduction:

This session will focus on identifying and recognizing secondary traumatic stress and vicarious trauma. We will examine the impact that receiving repeated messages and hearing stories related to traumatic events has on human responses of those working with children and families. Members of the court, health, behavioral health and child welfare professionals are all faced with devastating realities sometimes too difficult to walk away from at the end of the day. The effect lingers. Consideration will be given to how multiple and complicated traumatic events experienced in a worker’s life will affect helping. What conditions make the helper at risk for vicarious trauma? Professional impairment related to responding to trauma will be explored. This session will provide strategies for self-care and protective measures important for those working with children and families in need.

Return to top of page

3:30 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Workshops, Group 2

Panelists:

Moderators:

This workshop will address how advocates for court-involved youth can better understand the impact of their past trauma, and how appropriate advocacy strategies can help promote a successful transition to adulthood. It will help lawyers and others understand how to better work with severely traumatized youth who are involved in the family court system.

Return to top of page

Panelists:

Introduction:

In this session the participant will learn how to recognize the signs of escalating behavior and understand the way in which victims of trauma may respond differently in a situation. The participant will then be provided with information on how best to communicate and respond in various stages of agitation to maintain safety and effectively de-escalate the person. Discussion and participation will be encouraged to practice the techniques learned.

Return to top of page

Moderator:

Panelists:

Moderator:

This breakout session will inform attendees about the nuts and bolts of obtaining various trauma informed services available in the Washington D.C. area and the most effective way to access those resources. Representatives from area organizations will provide detailed information about the types of services that are available and different sources of referrals, funding and/or access to these services for populations that attendees serve in various types of Family Court cases.

Return to top of page

Conference Adjourns
Have a Great Day!!