“Look at me when I’m talking to you” is not a neurodivergent-affirming approach to supporting children and youth — but it is a phrase many caregivers and providers may recognize. Utilizing a neurodivergent-affirming lens with curiosity and compassion, this experiential educational opportunity will help providers gain insight and strategies for working with neurodiverse children of all ages and their families.
Participants will receive an overview of neurodivergence in children, with particular focus on dispelling myths about neurodivergence, and learning strategies to embrace strengths while guiding behavior. This training will explore the intersection between neurodiversity, trauma, and substance use disorders. Participants will develop plans to implement environmental considerations for children and youth in substance use recovery settings.
This session will complement our adults with neurodivergence training presented in June 2026 entitled Creating Inclusive Recovery Spaces: Supporting Individuals with Neurodivergence in Treatment.
Learning Objectives
- By the end of this training session, learners will be able to describe at least three ways that neurodivergence intersects with substance use disorder treatment.
- By the end of this training session, learners will be able to reframe at least three behaviors commonly labeled as “defiant” through a neurodivergent-affirming lens.
- By the end of this training session, learners will be able to apply three environmental accommodations they can immediately put in place to support youth in their practice.
Location
Worcester Area Mission Society (WAMS)
6 Institute Rd.
Worcester, MA 01609
Fee
- This training is offered at no charge to employees of programs funded or licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS) or Office of Youth and Young Adult Services (OYYAS)
- $225 for non-BSAS contracted programs
Fees include:
CEUs
Applications for Substance Abuse (LADC), Nursing (RN/NP), Mental Health (LMHC), Social Work (LCSW/LICSW) continuing education credits are being submitted.
All other participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance (COA).
Presenters
- Harmony Walbridge, LADC-II
- Cara Slaby, MSW, LICSW
- Ellen Cullen, LMHC
- Dakota Roundtree-Swain, MA, PhD, ABD
Contact
Cara Slaby, MSW, LICSW
IHR Parenting Services Program Manager
Email: @email
This training is hosted by IHR’s Parenting team and Gender Responsive Services, in collaboration with the Youth and Young Adult team.
