Understanding the Impact of Dual Diagnoses and Trauma in Work with System-Involved Youth and Families

Marya Wright, DSW, LCSW

Training Description

This training provides an in-depth overview of the intersection of dual diagnoses and trauma in work with system-involved youth and families, with a specific focus on foster youth. Participants will explore how trauma, neurodevelopment, and co-occurring mental health and developmental conditions shape behavior, engagement, and practice outcomes across child welfare and behavioral health systems. Using trauma-informed, strengths-based frameworks, real-world case examples, and evidence-informed strategies, participants will strengthen their assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and case planning. Attendance will support participants in providing ethically grounded, culturally responsive, and effective care to foster youth and families navigating complex system involvement.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Identify at least two common dual-diagnosis profiles and two trauma-related presentations among system-involved and foster youth.