Training Summary: This series explores best practices for new clinicians working with youth and families in community based, school-based, or residential programs in a cohesive, cohort-based training program. The Unconditional Care Model has been used at Seneca Family of Agencies for over 30 years and outlined in “Unconditional Care: Relationship-Based, Behavioral Intervention with Vulnerable Children and Families” and “Unconditional Care in Context: Engaging with Ecological Adversity” by John Sprinson with Ken Berrick.

In Module 2: Impact of Identity on Working with Youth and Families, we will focus on how the experiences, identity, and perspectives of a staff member can impact the services provided to youth and families. Participants will be invited to consider their own backgrounds and have an opportunity to discuss how their own identity impacts their perspective, priorities, and values as a service provider. Lastly, participants will discuss best practices in having conversations about differences with youth and families.

Learning Objectives: 

· Participants will understand how their own background and experiences impact their own perspective, values, and priorities in working with youth and families

· Participants will have a concrete behavioral plan for managing their own activation and staying grounded during challenging conversations

· Participants will gain skills in talking to families about differences in identity, values, and backgrounds