Children, Youth and Families

This course examines the intersection of race and behavioral health in Colorado. You will increase your understanding of the unique challenges faced by communities of color and the cultural factors that influence help-seeking behaviors and treatment outcomes. Topics will include the impact of racial discrimination on behavioral health, cultural beliefs and values related to mental health and substance use, and strategies for addressing behavioral health disparities and improving treatment outcomes.

Throughout the course, you will self-reflect and examine your biases and assumptions about race and mental health. Consistent with the Culture and Behavioral Health foundational course, this course intends to continue your lifelong journey of developing cultural competence and responsiveness.

This course explores behavioral health within the context of Native American culture. You will gain an understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

Topics covered will include historical trauma, intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, suicide, and the impact of colonialism on mental health. You will also examine the importance of cultural identity, spirituality, and community in promoting resilience and well-being among Indigenous peoples.

By the end of the course, you will have a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness and diversity of American Indian & Alaska Native (AIAN) communities and a greater awareness of the need for culturally responsive mental health care.

An overview of Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) concepts, introducing or expanding TF-CBT in practices, signs and symptoms of trauma in diverse populations, and TF-CBT screening tools and interventions.

An overview of opportunities to address key structural and organizational barriers to behavioral health access, including examples of national innovations and best practices.

An introduction to the Behavioral Health Entity (BHE) licensure, what it means to be a BHE, and the process for becoming a BHE.