Understanding Neurodiversity: Strategies for Inclusion and Advocacy to Better Support System-Involved Youth

Marya Wright, DSW, MSW

Training Description

This introductory training is designed to foster a deep understanding of neurodiversity and equip participants who work with system-involved youth with practical strategies for promoting inclusivity and advocating for the rights of neurodiverse individuals. The training will cover the diverse spectrum of neurodiverse conditions, their impact on various environments, and the importance of creating accommodating spaces that celebrate differences. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain valuable insights and tools to create an inclusive and supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals in their communities, workplaces, and educational institutions. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions, and participant workbook (handout). Attending this training will help participants identify and apply inclusive strategies tailored to the unique needs of system-involved youth (SIY), ensuring a supportive and understanding approach to their diverse experiences and challenges.

Learning Objectives

● Participants will be able to explain the concept of neurodiversity & recognize the diversity within the spectrum of neurodiverse conditions necessary for system-involved youth (SIY).

● Participants will identify at least 2 challenges faced by neurodiverse SIY, in different settings, including educational environments & workplaces.

● Participants will acquire at least 2 practical strategies for creating inclusive environments through the implementation of universal design principles & tailored communication techniques for SIY.

Agenda

10:00-10:05am  Welcome and Training Purpose

10:05-10:15am  Objectives  and Learning Goals

10:15-10:30am  Introduction to Neurodiversity

10:30-10:45am  Definition of Neurodiversity

10:45-11:00am  BREAK (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

11:00-11:15am  Embracing Neurodiversity for Inclusion

11:15-11:30am  Common Neurodiverse Conditions

11:30-11:45am  Impact of Neurodiversity in Different Settings

11:45am-12pm  Challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in educational environments

12:00-1:00pm  LUNCH (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

1:00-1:15pm  Strategies for Creating Inclusive Environments

1:15-1:25pm  Building awareness and empathy among peers and colleagues

1:25-1:30pm  Best Practices for Advocating Neurodiversity

1:30-1:45pm  Addressing stigmas for System-Involved Youth

1:45-2:00pm  Misconceptions associated with neurodiverse conditions

2:00-2:15pm  Fostering a culture of acceptance and respect for neurodiverse individuals

2:15-2:30pm  Impact of inclusive practices on personal & professional growth

2:30-2:45pm  BREAK (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

2:45-3:00pm  Engaging in policy advocacy for the rights and supports

3:00-3:15pm  Policy Advocacy for Neurodiversity

3:15-3:30pm  Resources and Support Networks

3:30-3:45pm  Questions/Answers

3:45-4:00pm  Closing

Meet Our Trainer

Marya Wright, DSW MSW BSW, is a nationally recognized social worker, consultant, educator, and facilitator with extensive experience in organizational leadership, child welfare services, and curriculum development. As the President and CEO of Wright Community Services LLC, Dr. Wright is dedicated to empowering system-involved families through awareness, services, and education. She also provides consultation, training, and facilitation to agencies serving these communities.

Dr. Wright earned her master’s in social work from Cal State East Bay, specializing in Child Welfare Policy and Research, and a bachelor’s in social work with a focus on Child Welfare Services and Motivational Interviewing from San Diego State University. She holds a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, focusing on achieving equal opportunity and justice in the child welfare system.

As a community leader, Dr. Wright prioritizes building relationships, networking, and collaborating with stakeholders to address social and economic issues faced by clients, aiming for justice and peace. She serves as a qualified expert witness and forensic social worker. Additionally, Dr. Wright sits on the Board of Directors for the California Society of Clinical Social Work and is actively involved with the National Association of Social Workers and California Chapter.

Dr. Wright’s research interests include child sexual exploitation, foster care, and algorithmic decision-making in child welfare. She has published articles and lectured extensively on these topics. Dr. Wright’s teaching experience includes courses in sociology and social work at Cal State East Bay, focusing on sexualities, child welfare policy, family sociology, and sexual violence. Currently, she serves as a professor in the graduate program teaching generalist practice, human behavior and social environment, and advance practice children youth and families.

This course meets the qualifications for (4.5) BBS CE hours for LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCCs, and LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences & is provided by Fred Finch Youth Center, CAMFT Provider #045295.