An Overview of Substance Use with System-Involved Youth with a Focus on Alcohol, Marijuana and Opioids

Nicole Klasey, PsyD

Training Description

Substance use is a growing issue with system-involved youth and young adults. Some youth have used substances prior to entering the system, some have been exposed to them while running away from placement and some use substances after leaving the system. System-involved youth and young adults may use substances as a means to cope with trauma and adversity, because of peer pressure, experimentation, etc. It’s crucial for social service providers, foster parents, and natural supports to understand how substances affect youth. This workshop will focus on alcohol, marijuana and opioids. Participants will learn strategies to talk with youth about substance use as well as strategies to support youth who misuse substances.

Learning Objectives

· Participants will be able to identify at least one reason system-involved youth misuse substances.

· Participants will be able identify at least 1 alcohol related harm reduction strategy and 1 opioid…