Description:
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) represents a spectrum of disorders that describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These effects may include physical, mental, behavioral, or learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications. These disorders often co-occur with substance use and mental health disorders, and generally require treatment modifications for successful outcomes. However, there are limited resources to assist youth as they leave high school and enter adulthood. Teens and their families don’t know what will happen when the school bus stops.
This statewide conference for families, human service providers, and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) professionals will address the challenges and resources for youth with an FASD. Speakers include: Hillary Dunn, JD, MA Disability Law Center; Parents and Young Adults; Dan Dubovsky, LICSW, National FASD Trainer; Disability Housing Specialist; State Services Specialist; and The Brenner Center/William James College.
Do you have or work with young people who:
- Have an IEP, but without vocational or educational support after high school graduation?
- Are no succeeding in spite of help, motivation or assistance?
- Want to live independently, but lack the necessary skills or resources?
- Can't remember something they knew or decided yesterday?
- Have difficulty with sustaining healthy peer relationships?
- Have been "terminated" from substance use disorder treatment because of their inability to conform to program guidelines?
- Need state support services and don't know how to get them?
- Have parents who need support, encouragement, and hope?
Objectives:
Learn challenges and successes from family members of young adults with an FASD
- Participants will be able to identify various strengths and challenges of young people with an FASD.
- Participants will be able to utilize strength-based, effective communication styles with youth with an FASD
Learn how to engage MA public schools in transition planning
- Participants will learn the legal requirements of MA public schools regarding transition-aged youth with an FASD
- Participants will learn successful approaches to use with schools
Familiarize participants with Adapting Residential SUD treatment for Young People with an FASD.
- State agency representatives will be able to identify how FASD might affect the clients they serve.
- Participants will learn strategies to better engage individuals and promote reasonable change.
Explore Supported Housing Initiatives
- Participants will be introduced to various supported housing options, financing, and the civil rights therein.
Learn about State Resources for People with an FASD
- Participants will know resources for those who are not currently eligible for MA Dept. of Developmental Services or MA Dept. of Mental Health services.
Understand massFAS and advocacy opportunities.
- Participants will meet families and stakeholders, for support and advocacy.
- Participants will be introduced to massFAS Facebook and website for current advocacy opportunities and news.
