Training Description:
This training explores the intersection of neurodiversity, trauma, and substance use among youth and young adults. Neurodevelopmental differences, including ADHD and Autism, can shape how young people experience, regulate, and respond to their environments, influencing patterns of substance use and engagement in care.
Building on foundational concepts of co-occurring disorders, participants will examine how these factors interact in complex and overlapping ways. The training reviews common presentations, risk and protective factors, and key considerations for working with neurodivergent youth across settings.
Participants will also be introduced to practical, trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming strategies, including ways to adapt communication, screening, and intervention approaches to better support engagement and treatment.
Objectives: Participants will be able to...
- Describe key characteristics of neurodevelopmental differences (e.g., ADHD, Autism) and how they may influence regulation, behavior, and engagement in care.
- Explain the intersection of neurodiversity, trauma, and co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns.
- Identify at least three risk and protective factors and key considerations for working with neurodivergent youth across service settings.
- Apply trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming strategies to adapt communication, screening, and intervention approaches.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS:
2.00 hours of Continuing Education will be offered for Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors, (LADC I, LADCII, and LADC Assistants), Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (CAC/CADC), and Nurses (RN/LPN).
2.00 hours of Continuing Education for Social Work (SW). Attendees must have their camera on for the training, as well as participate in all breakout sessions.
2.00 hours of Continuing Education will be offered for Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), all continuing education for LMHCs in MA must be approved by a recognized entity, NBCC, National Board of Certified Counselors is recognized by the MA Division of Professional Licensure Board of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions.
Sponsored by:
MA Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, Office of Youth and Young Adult Services, Institute for Health and Recovery, & ADEPT Educational Institute, Inc