Description: Family engagement can look different for every young person. Families, caregivers, chosen family, and other natural supports may be sources of connection and encouragement, while also bringing experiences, needs, and expectations that can complicate treatment and recovery.
This training explores how providers can better understand these relationships and foster meaningful engagement with youth, young adults, and the people important to them. Participants will examine factors that influence family involvement and explore practical, trauma-informed strategies for building trust, strengthening communication, and supporting collaboration while respecting each young person’s voice, autonomy, and safety.
Learning Objectives:
· Describe at least two ways families, caregivers, or other natural supports may support youth and young adult recovery.
· Identify at least three factors that may influence family engagement, including barriers and strengths.
· Identify at least two trauma-informed strategies for fostering meaningful family engagement while honoring the young person’s preferences, autonomy, and safety.
Audience: Provider, Substance Use Services, Employees, Employers/worksites, PWUD, People in recovery, General public
Sponsored by: MA Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, Office of Youth and Young Adult Services & Adept Educational Institute, Inc.