Behavioral & Special Needs of Foster Care Youth

Foster youth often have emotional needs and behavioral issues related to the traumas they have experienced that place them at greater risk of suicidal and aggressive behavior. This class reviews the emotional consequences of trauma for youth and origins of behavioral issues.  Areas for working with youth on managing harmful behaviors will be discussed including self-esteem, communication skills, coping skills and behavior change. Guidelines for responding to suicidal and aggressive behavior will also be reviewed.

Instructor Paul Gibson, LCSW, is a Program Consultant with over 28 years of experience developing and directing programs for culturally diverse youth in residential, public health, mental health, and vocational services. He has more than 20 years experience as a licensed therapist and educator providing extensive trainings for youth service providers on working with vulnerable youth. He currently serves on the Mayor’s Transitional Youth Task Force in San Francisco.