Activism

Virtual Workshop for Families with Children and Youth Facing Mental Health Challenges

School issues, for example, often affect a child’s mental health and a child’s emotional issues or trauma are likely to affect school performance. In Alameda County, services for youth include young people up through the age of 24. This program is free.

Published

4 years ago

February 2, 2022

Oakland Post

Workshop leaders are Lisa Carlisle, (picitured), and Dr. Karriem Salaam. Photo courtesy of AAFOP.

By Margot Dashiell

“You Are Not Alone” is the first program of the new year for the African American Family Outreach Project, presenting noted speakers addressing concerns of families whose children and youth face mental health or emotional challenges.

Headlining the Saturday event will be two speakers.

Lisa Carlisle, the director of the Children and Youth System of Care for the Alameda County Behavioral Health department, will provide an overview of child and adolescent development, the impact of trauma and the availability of services in Alameda County. Having worked in the classroom, in school administration and mental health settings, Carlisle comes with a depth of understanding of the need for strong partnerships between schools and mental health service providers.

Karriem Salaam, M.D., a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in children and adolescents will address the needs of young people in the COVID environment. He will also explain the importance of a full patient evaluation before considering medication. Salaam has also contributed to the book “Mind Matters,” writing about the importance of a full understanding of medications, their benefits and side effects.

Young people who may have faced trauma or emotional struggles often act out at school, with peers or at home. For family caregivers, information provided at the event will support families in developing a home plan vital for good outcomes with their children, with schools and with service providers. The event will run from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022. To register go to https://bit.ly/AAFOPWorkshop or call 510-697-8533.