Culturally Responsive Care: Supporting Behavioral Health in Justice-Involved Youth

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Course Summary

Most youth who become involved in the justice system are likely to have at least one diagnosable mental disorder, highlighting a significant public health and social justice issue. These young individuals often also face systemic barriers, including socioeconomic challenges, a history of trauma, and pervasive social stigma, all of which create barriers to accessing proper support services. By utilizing the framework of restorative community justice, this training emphasizes trauma-informed practices and culturally sensitive approaches. Participants will gain actionable strategies to effectively recognize the unique challenges these youth face and apply strategies that foster healing and rehabilitation. Ultimately, this course aims to promote a more empathetic and effective response to the needs of justice-involved youth, thereby contributing to their successful reintegration into society.


Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Describe the behavioral health challenges that most youth experience in the juvenile justice system.
  2. Identify opportunities for effective interventions for justice-involved youth.
  3. Utilize restorative community justice strategies in your interactions with justice-involved youth.

Learning Audience

This course is designed for professionals who work with youth involved in or at risk of entering the criminal justice system. It is intended for Youth Services Specialists, police officers, juvenile parole and probation officers, and legal professionals. This course is particularly suited for individuals seeking to enhance their cultural competency and implement trauma-responsive strategies to support justice-involved youth in diverse and challenging settings.


Course Duration

  • 60 minutes

 


Content Contributors

  • Tammy Schneiderman, M.Ed., Ed.S., LPC, Associate Director, Division of Youth Services, Colorado Department of Human Services
  • Bonnie Graham, Program Manager, Intensive Treatment Services, WellPower
Price: Free