In Person
Training

Creating Inclusive Recovery Spaces: Supporting Neurodiverse Individuals in Treatment 

Spend a day with a multi-disciplinary team of IHR trainers exploring the different ways our brains work!

June 9, 2026

9:00 am – 3:30 pm

Free for staff from BSAS-contracted programs (supported by the MA Department of Public Health) $225 for non-BSAS contracted programs
This Training is Full
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Training participants will receive an overview of neurodivergence, with a deeper dive into ADHD and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) specifically.  Our featured speaker, Dr. Jessica Isom, MD, MPH, will address unique health and healthcare system navigation challenges associated with ADHD, while state-wide FASD expert, Reuben Kittrell, will present on the clinical implications of FASD.  

People with neurological differences are highly represented in substance use treatment settings; yet their needs are often overlooked within traditional models of care. Throughout this training, providers will be encouraged to shift from viewing unwanted behaviors as "resistance" or "noncompliance" toward an understanding of them as expressions of those unmet needs. This experiential training will focus on practical, applicable strategies for creating more inclusive systems, environments, and therapeutic interactions. Special emphasis will be placed on implementing neurodivergent-affirming approaches that improve accessibility and responsiveness for all those we serve, regardless of known diagnoses. Moreover, providers will have the opportunity to consider their own executive functioning needs within the workplace and can sample strategies for effectively managing them.  

Location: Worcester Area Mission Society (WAMS); 6 Institute Rd, Worcester, MA  

Registration:

Please register by Friday, June 5th.  

Fee

  • Free for staff from BSAS-contracted programs (supported by the MA Department of Public Health) 
  • $225 for non-BSAS contracted programs  

Fees include:  

  • Breakfast & lunch 
  • 4.25 CEUs 

Payment Deadline:

All payments need to be submitted by Friday, June 5th

Refund Policy:  

If you pay for this training but are no longer able to attend, you may request a refund up until June, 2nd.  

CEUs

Applications for Substance Abuse (LADC), Nursing (RN/NP), Mental Health (LMHC), Social Work (LCSW/LICSW) continuing education credits are being submitted. 

All other participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance (COA). 

Presenters

  • Cara Slaby, MSW, LICSW 
  • Harmony Walbridge, LADC-II 
  • Reuben Kittrell 
  • Dr. Jessica Isom, MD, MPH 

Any Questions? Please Contact

Cara Slaby, MSW, LICSW 
IHR Parenting Services Program Manager

Email: caraslaby@healthrecovery.org