Case workers can often feel at a loss as to how to best address the complicated needs of children (ages 0 -18) with mental health issues – both diagnosed and undiagnosed - including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attachment disorders, autism, ADHD and conduct disorder. These children frequently have challenging behaviours, have often experienced complex trauma, can have developmental delays and may have parents with their own mental health difficulties.

Facilitated by a child and adolescent psychiatrist and a psychologist, this program focuses on building caseworkers' confidence in assessing, planning for and meeting the mental health and care needs of these children and their families.

In addition to training, including case studies and video material, there will be time each day for case consultation and reflective discussion.

At the end of this program, you will:

• Be able to identify the different disorders that develop in childhood, and some major adult mental health disorders
• Be capable of incorporating a child mental health focus into assessments; including knowing who to speak to, what to look for, the questions to ask and how to make sense of what’s being seen and heard
• Know how to incorporate a child mental health management plan into case planning
• Have a plan for working with other services, including mental health services, to create the best outcomes for children

Who should attend?

Case workers working in child protection, family support, youth support and out-of-home care