Workshop focuses on childhood trauma

The public is invited to attend a workshop on childhood trauma and its effects on brain development on Aug. 19

Stacy York will be in Kalispell to educate and train teachers, mental health professionals and community members on child development, the impact of trauma on a child’s brain, and practical strategies.

The session will be from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Flathead Valley Community College in the Arts and Technology Building, Room 139.

From noon to 2 p.m., York will also present “The Benefits of a Trauma Informed Community” at a luncheon in the Red Lion Hotel, 20 N. Main St. Community leaders also will hear from Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney.

York is a licensed clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist. She also owns a private practice that specializes in children and family issues.

Traumatic childhood experiences have a large impact on a youth becoming a potential victim or perpetrator of violence, according to a press release from Montana Support, Outreach and Access for the Resiliency of Students Kalispell. Childhood trauma has also been linked to adult onset chronic disease such as diabetes.

These mental and physical impacts pose public health, social and economic concerns for communities, according to the press release.

Montana Support, Outreach and Access for the Resiliency of Students Kalispell, which is hosting the events, works to improve academic and social success of youth by strengthening family, school, and community relationships and increasing mental health awareness.

The organization aims to improve school climate and safety by connecting youths with behavioral and mental health services. Montana SOARS Kalispell is funded through a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration federal grant.

For more information, contact Montana SOARS Project Director Ronda Stevens at 751-3643 or stevensr@sd5.k12.mt.us. For more information on York, visit www.bewhatsright.com.