Module 1: Understanding the Multiple Needs of Families Involved with the Child Welfare System

The goal of Module 1 is to provide learners with foundational knowledge on a range of co-occurring needs that children and families involved in the child welfare system may experience. This module serves as a primer to the remaining modules and includes a broad-level overview of relevant data; important child welfare laws and considerations; introductory information on substance use and co-occurring disorders, including topic-based discussions on the cumulative effects of trauma and stigma. The module closes with an introduction to a family-centered approach and highlights the benefits and importance of cross-system collaboration for identifying and responding to the diverse needs of children, parents, and families.

After completing this training, child welfare workers will:

• Identify the prevalence of substance use, mental disorders, and trauma in the child welfare population
• Recognize the effects of substance use and co-occurring disorders on children and families
• Describe how stigma and bias perpetuates disparate outcomes for families affected by co-occurring disorders
• Understand the importance of a family-centered approach when working with families affected by co-occurring disorders
• Identify the benefits of collaborating with other systems and service providers to better serve children and families