Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD): What Is It and What Do We Do About It? (*2CEs, 2.5CLEs)
2025-12-08 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom, FL, United States
Live Virtual Zoom Training
Date: Monday, December 8, 2025Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm EST / 9 am – 11 am CT / 8 – 10 am MTCost: FREE, $10 for CLEs
DESCRIPTION:
Of all substances of abuse, alcohol causes the most serious long-term effects in a fetus, resulting in permanent brain damage. Many children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome go undiagnosed and suffer lifelong social challenges, serious mental health problems, and involvement with the juvenile justice system. Proper identification and intervention can help prevent many of these challenges. If you work professionally with children or are a foster care parent knowing about the symptoms, developmental challenges, and appropriate interventions for children on the FASD spectrum is crucial. This webinar will help the attendee identify red flags and signs that may indicate that a child may have brain-based difficulties as a result of prenatal alcohol exposure. This presentation will also help attendees shift their perspective in order to begin to view social/emotional problems, difficult behaviors, and learning challenges of these individuals as a symptom of brain dysfunction and not willful defiance and opposition.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood operates the only FASD Diagnostic Clinics in the State of Florida, now located in Sarasota, Orlando and the panhandle.
Takeaways:

Learn what FASD is and how it is often misdiagnosed.
Learn how FASD impacts brain development and behaviors.
Learn to identify FASD red flags.
Gain a shift in perspective about those with social/emotional problems, difficult behaviors, or learning challenges.

Florida Bar Association: CLE Credits: 2.5 General, 2.5 Mental Health and Wellness; Certification Credits: 2.5 Juvenile Law
CE Information: 2. CEs for Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Certified Master Social Worker through CEBroker. Certificates will be supplied.
TRAINERS:

Tamra Cajo, LCSW, Statewide Director of FASD Services
Tamra Cajo, LCSW, is a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of experience in early childhood development and prevention. She currently serves as the Director of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Clinics at The Florida Center for Early Childhood—home to the only diagnostic clinics for FASD in the state of Florida.
Tamra is actively involved in national efforts to support individuals and families affected by FASD. She serves on the Executive Council of FASD United and is a Board Member of FASCETS. She is also a certified facilitator in the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model and a Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner.
Previously, Tamra was the lead trainer in the Midwest for ACT Raising Safe Kids, an evidence-based violence prevention curriculum. Her extensive training also includes a range of other evidence-based programs such as Circle of Security Parenting, Families Moving Forward (FMF), Helping the Non-Compliant Child, Chicago Parent Program, and Youth Mental Health First Aid.
Crystal Dethlefs, FASD Clinic Parent Advocate
Crystal Dethlefs is the proud biological and adoptive mother of seven children, including four siblings who joined her family as infants following prenatal alcohol exposure. Her lived experience has fueled a deep passion for supporting individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and equipping caregivers and professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to provide effective, compassionate care.
Crystal serves as a Parent Advocate with the FASD Clinic at The Florida Center for Early Childhood, where she works to promote informed care that leads to positive outcomes for individuals with FASD and their families.

DC:0–5™ Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood
2025-12-09 09:00 - 2025-12-11 13:00
Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom
3 sessions, 12hrsDecember 9, 2025, 9:00 am-1:00 pm ESTDecember 10, 2025, 9:00 am-1:00 pm ESTDecember 11, 2025, 9:00 am-1:00 pm EST
12 CEs ($20) for Florida LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, CMSW offered through CEBrokers.
Cost: $349 until 11/30/25 12 CEs included (space limited to 25 seats)
Training Description:DC:0–5™ Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood, trademarked by Zero to Three, provides clinical research and scientific findings on infant and early childhood mental health. Learn to Diagnose Developmental & Mental Health Disorders in Infancy and Early Childhood!
Who is this training for?This training is best for advanced clinicians and practitioners such as mental health clinicians, psychiatrists, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and early intervention specialists who work with infants, young children, and their families involved in assessment, diagnosis, and case formulation. Registrants must live in Florida.
Learning Objectives:-Participants will learn about the multi-faceted approach to diagnosis, which is developmentally informed, relationship-based, contextually, and culturally grounded.-Participants will learn the contents of each facet, including Axis I—Clinical Disorders, Axis II—Relational Context, Axis III—Physical Health Conditions and Considerations, Axis IV—Psychosocial Stressors, and Axis V—Developmental Competence.-Participants will be involved in the application of the model by diagnosing case studies within a group.
Please order your own DC:05 Manual “Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health & Developmental Disorders (DC:0-5) – PRINT V 2.0” as it will be extensively used in this training.
Purchase DC:05 Manual:(copy and paste this url into your web browser)https://myzerotothree.force.com/s/store?_ga=2.133402504.722166065.1646073097-184303784.1587747534#/store/browse/detail/a3G2S000000BZcqUAG
Presented By Melissa Bradley, M.A., LMHCVice President of Behavioral Health Services at The Florida Center for Early Childhood and Certified Zero to Three Trainer in DC:05™.

Intro to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) from the Self-Advocate Perspective
2025-12-10 18:00 - 19:00
Live Virtual Zoom Training
Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm EST / 5 pm – 6 pm CT / 4 – 5pm MTCost: FREE
DESCRIPTION:
This powerful and heartfelt presentation offers participants a rare opportunity to understand Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) through the lived experience of a young adult diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Co-presented by Alex and his mother, this session explores both the challenges and the strengths that come with a FASD diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of empathy, communication, and connection in supporting individuals and families on this journey. With honesty and humor, Alex shares his personal story, describing what his diagnosis means to him and how it has shaped his life, from school and friendships to independence and advocacy. He offers insight into both the struggles he faces and the “superpowers” that come with his unique brain. His mother adds a parent’s perspective, reflecting on their shared path toward understanding, resilience, and hope. Together, they provide an inspiring look into what it means to live, and thrive, with FASD.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood operates the only FASD Diagnostic Clinics in the State of Florida, now located in Sarasota, Orlando and the panhandle.
Takeaways:

Experience a powerful firsthand account of what it’s like to live with FASD.
Recognize the importance of self-advocacy and empowering individuals with FASD.
Gain meaningful insight into the challenges and strengths of individuals with FASD.
Discover the importance of family support, patience, and communication in fostering growth and resilience.
Learn strategies for professionals and caregivers to better understand individuals with FASD.

TRAINERS:

Alex Carver, FASD Self-Advocate
Alex Carver is a 21-year-old FASD Warrior. Adopted from Russia at 13 months old, Alex has spent hundreds of hours in occupational, speech, music, and equine therapy. He recently graduated from High School and is learning how to drive. He’s also working with Vocational Rehab to find a job he will enjoy. He is witty, charming and a bit mischievous. He lives at home with his Mom, Dad, Cat, Dog and Turtle in sunny Florida. Getting along with this crazy over-protective parents isn’t always easy but they all love each other deeply.
Pam Carver, FASD Caregiver, Intake Coordinator at The Florida Center
Pam’s has extensive experience in accounting and business education, but that didn’t prepare her for FASD. Her adopted son Alex was diagnosed with FAS at age 3. Now he’s 20 years old. Pam has spent countless hours learning about FASD and helping Alex live his best life. When not advocating, Pam enjoys gardening and drinking coffee.

Men's Mental Fitness: Redefining Strength from the Inside Out
2025-12-12 13:00 - 14:30
Friday, December 12, 2025, 1-2:30pm EST / 12-1:30pm CST / 11-12:30pm MST / 10-11:30am PST
1.5 CEs included for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.
Cost: $69.
Description:
This training explores the unique challenges men face in accessing mental health support—and the powerful role they can play in prevention and healing. Through engaging stories, practical tools, and emotionally grounded strategies, participants will learn how cultural norms, personal history, and relational dynamics shape men’s emotional wellness. The training offers a realistic and attainable model of emotional strength—one rooted in vulnerability, recovery, and consistent relational effort.
But it’s not just for men. It’s for anyone who identifies as a man, and for anyone who cares deeply about one—a partner, a friend, a son, a colleague. Whether you’re navigating your own journey or supporting someone else’s, this experience invites you to spot emotional weight, interrupt harmful cycles, and help build safer homes and communities.
Learning Objectives:

Understand how cultural norms and emotional conditioning shape men’s mental health
Recognize the diverse experiences and barriers men face in accessing emotional support
Learn to identify common behavioral signals of emotional distress and respond with care
Offer a practical model for building emotional strength through vulnerability, repair, and consistent relational effort.

Presenter:
B.J. Develle, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Trinity, FL with over 20 years of experience serving children and families throughout North and Central Florida. His work spans diverse settings—including Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Child Welfare, and School Social Work—supporting individuals with severe behavioral health challenges, chronic medical conditions, grief and loss, and post-adoption transitions. B.J. currently balances his time between school social work, professional training, and his private psychotherapy practice, which specializes primarily in men’s issues and couples counseling.

ALC of FASD Changemakers: The Language of Diagnosis: The Unintended Messages in the Language We Use….or Don’t Use
2025-12-16 13:00 - 15:00
Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom
Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2025Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm EST, 12-2pm Ct, 11-1pm MT, 10-12pm PSTIntroductory Training: FREE
Training Description:
This presentation came about as the result of the ALC being asked to give the province (state) wide Salzberg Memorial Ethics Lecture for the Provincial Health Services of British Columbia. The ALC was the first and only person/group ever asked to provide this annual lecture who was not an ethics expert. We titled it “The Language of Diagnosis: The Unintended Messages in the Language We Use”. After reading the description for what the ALC was asked to talk about in that presentation, which included the “impact of labelling”, and the words “increasing resilience and capacity”, the ALC members talked a long time about what we think we can, want to – and should – tell you about those “unintended messages” from the point of view of many adults who have FASD and the teens we mentor, and the children we all once were, because “unintended” messages all to easily become unintentionally “intended” messages. “Unintended messages” and “labelling” have a major – and traumatic – impact, and the KEY one, the one that people with FASD hear everywhere, from many, many different people and places, over and over again, is that there seems to be something terribly wrong about having FASD. The ALC want people to think about this, to consider what role we all play and how we might do things so that all messages are intended, effective, supportive and useful, because resilience only happens when what is said is what is heard, and what is actually meant.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood, home to Florida’s only FASD Diagnostic Clinics, located in Sarasota, Orlando, and the panhandle.
Learning Objectives:

Identify how diagnostic and labeling language impacts people with FASD and shapes self-perception.
Analyze how professional language may reinforce stigma or suggest something is “wrong” with having FASD.
Apply communication strategies that promote understanding, resilience, and inclusion.

ALC – FASD Changemakers
The International Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers is a well known group of citizen researchers and experts who each have diagnosed FASD. It is made up of 16 members. As a group, they have experienced all the events commonly associated with FASD but have learned how to overcome obstacles, maximize potential and re-define success. They use their combined living experience to work together as consultants, advisors, trainers, presenters, mentors, group moderators, bloggers, and as research project team members for universities and national organizations, centres and associations in several countries. They have organized, initiated, designed, developed and led full 3-day program conferences for teens and adults with FASD in both Vancouver and Seattle since 2014. As well, they develop and lead their own survey research, which has received wide interest by researchers, institutions, organizations, systems, and government and is currently being used to help focus research directions and questions. Their first survey on the health of 500 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2020, and their second survey on the quality of life of 450 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2024. A third Lay of the Land survey is currently in the initial stages of discussion.
Presenters:
CJ Lutke – CanadaCJ Lutke, who is 41, was diagnosed with full FAS at birth and adopted by her foster family at age five, who had already adopted her older brother and sister who also have FASD. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented at and participated in many conferences, seminars, training sessions and other events for over 20 years. CJ is a systems changer and advocate, provides advice and consultation and participates as an advisor and team member for different research projects. She currently sits on various committees, including one to make changes to the family court system in British Columbia (BC), chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of BC, and has just been asked to be on a research project on suicidality in those with FASD by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the national centre in Canada. She provides mentoring to younger adults with FASD and is the author of an on-line blog that is hosted by NOFASD Australia which is followed globally. As well, CJ has been a member of the Adult Leadership Committee (ALC) of FASD Changemakers for 15 year and was one of its founders. She was the co-lead on their first ground-breaking Lay of the Land Survey on the health and physical issues of adults with diagnosed FASD that has received wide international attention and was published in 2020. CJ was the lead author on their second Lay of the Land Survey on the Quality of Life of Adults with diagnosed FASD, results of which have been presented widely including to NIAAA and were published in 2024. As well, CJ became an adoptive parent when she adopted her now 12-year-old son (with FASD) from foster care when he was seven. CJ believes that those with FASD must challenge perceptions about possibilities and outcomes, find their purpose and change the future. Her goal is to help others with FASD find their voice and to understand that we are greater when we work together.
Maggie May – IrelandMaggie May, who is 28 years old, was diagnosed at the age of five with FAS in foster care, where she grew up. She was born in and has lived her entire life in Ireland. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented widely, moderates several on-line groups including the largest global online support group for teens and adults with FASD and provides online mentoring to teens with FASD in several countries. Maggie is a systems changed and advocate and has been a member of the ALC for 5 years. She works for FASD UK. She is currently an expert advisory committee member for the development of a health app for adults with FASD by the University of Rochester, USA. Maggie’s goal is to help audiences change the way they view FASD, educate society to build environments for success, and empower those with FASD to find their own voices, purpose and the courage to be who they are and achieve what they want to do.

Families Moving Forward Foundations: FASD Informed Care in Your Community
2026-01-12 13:00 - 14:30
Introducing the Families Moving Forward (FMF) Foundations Intervention: A CDC-recognized, evidence-based treatment designed for children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE). Learn about the skills, tools, and knowledge that support families affected by FASD/PAE with this proven model of care.

Live Q & A Online 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ESTFor Health Professionals & Providers
Learn the steps to becoming a fully trained FMF Foundations Specialistand how to launch services in your community.

Live Q & A Only2:00 – 2:30 p.m. ESTFor Caregivers & Providers
Discover how a trained FMF interventionist can support your family and why working with one can make a difference.

Featuring Dr. Anika Trancik, who will:

Introduce steps to becoming a fully trained FMF Foundations Specialist
Walk through the application process for FMF training
Share real-world funding strategies used by past participants
Offer practical guidance for launching FMF services in your community
Explain how FMF can help families and what to expect from working with a specialist.

The FMF Specialist Training is offered by The Florida Center Training Institute in partnership with the Families Moving Forward Program Office.

ALC of FASD Changemakers: Behind the Mask - Unravelling Grief in People with FASD: It's Complicated
2026-01-20 13:00 - 15:00
Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm EST, 12-2pm Ct, 11-1pm MT, 10-12pm PSTCost: FREE
Training Description:
The grief attached to FASD is something individuals with FASD experience across their lifetimes in almost every area of life, starting in childhood. There is little awareness of how this has impacted those with FASD across the ages, particularly by adulthood. With it goes an unrecognized, unacknowledged, and almost always avoided on-going process of grieving multiple losses that continue to occur in the absence of recognition. Rarely ever talked about, let alone understood, by professionals, families or by those with FASD themselves, this is a missed opportunity often at the root of so many failures and difficulties those with FASD experience. Understanding the “don’t ask, don’t tell, never talk about it boxes of denial”, what they are, what they look like and why they happen, is essential for providing better mental health services for individuals with FASD. Their quality of life, especially by adulthood, has been significantly negatively impacted by ignorance of the need to deal with these kinds of losses. This workshop is developed from the personal experience and expertise of the ALC of FASD Changemakers, and their work and interactions with other adults who have experienced these losses while growing up and across their lifespans. It is what they wish adults had understood when they were children but were too young to understand and could not give voice to. It will bring needed representation of the different types of grief experienced by those with FASD into the mainstream of FASD professional work, support, and service delivery. It will underscore the importance of complicated grief, as an essential mental health issue to address, and the importance of recognizing, allowing, and supporting individuals with FASD themselves to grieve so they can move on with their lives, regardless of their ages.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood, home to Florida’s only FASD Diagnostic Clinics, located in Sarasota, Orlando, and the panhandle.
Learning Objectives:

Identify common forms of lifelong grief experienced by individuals with FASD.
Recognize denial patterns that prevent acknowledgment of FASD-related grief.
Apply grief-informed approaches to support individuals with FASD in professional practice.

ALC – FASD Changemakers
The International Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers is a well known group of citizen researchers and experts who each have diagnosed FASD. It is made up of 16 members. As a group, they have experienced all the events commonly associated with FASD but have learned how to overcome obstacles, maximize potential and re-define success. They use their combined living experience to work together as consultants, advisors, trainers, presenters, mentors, group moderators, bloggers, and as research project team members for universities and national organizations, centres and associations in several countries. They have organized, initiated, designed, developed and led full 3-day program conferences for teens and adults with FASD in both Vancouver and Seattle since 2014. As well, they develop and lead their own survey research, which has received wide interest by researchers, institutions, organizations, systems, and government and is currently being used to help focus research directions and questions. Their first survey on the health of 500 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2020, and their second survey on the quality of life of 450 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2024. A third Lay of the Land survey is currently in the initial stages of discussion.
Presenters:
CJ Lutke – CanadaCJ Lutke, who is 41, was diagnosed with full FAS at birth and adopted by her foster family at age five, who had already adopted her older brother and sister who also have FASD. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented at and participated in many conferences, seminars, training sessions and other events for over 20 years. CJ is a systems changer and advocate, provides advice and consultation and participates as an advisor and team member for different research projects. She currently sits on various committees, including one to make changes to the family court system in British Columbia (BC), chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of BC, and has just been asked to be on a research project on suicidality in those with FASD by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the national centre in Canada. She provides mentoring to younger adults with FASD and is the author of an on-line blog that is hosted by NOFASD Australia which is followed globally. As well, CJ has been a member of the Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers for 15 year and was one of its founders. She was the co-lead on their first ground-breaking Lay of the Land Survey on the health and physical issues of adults with diagnosed FASD that has received wide international attention and was published in 2020. CJ was the lead author on their second Lay of the Land Survey on the Quality of Life of Adults with diagnosed FASD, results of which have been presented widely including to NIAAA and were published in 2024. As well, CJ became an adoptive parent when she adopted her now 12-year-old son (with FASD) from foster care when he was seven. CJ believes that those with FASD must challenge perceptions about possibilities and outcomes, find their purpose and change the future. Her goal is to help others with FASD find their voice and to understand that we are greater when we work together.
Maggie May – IrelandMaggie May, who is 29 years old, was diagnosed at the age of five with FAS in foster care, where she grew up. She was born in and has lived her entire life in Ireland. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented widely, moderates several on-line groups including the largest global online support group for teens and adults with FASD and provides online mentoring to teens with FASD in several countries. Maggie is a systems changed and advocate and has been a member of the ALC for 5 years. She works for FASD UK. She is currently an expert advisory committee member for the development of a health app for adults with FASD by the University of Rochester, USA. Maggie’s goal is to help audiences change the way they view FASD, educate society to build environments for success, and empower those with FASD to find their own voices, purpose and the courage to be who they are and achieve what they want to do.

Early Childhood Court (ECC): A Collaborative Approach to Child Well-Being
2026-01-21 12:00 - 14:00
This is a Live Virtual Zoom webinar
Wednesday, January 21, 202612-2pm EST / 11-1pm CST / 10-12pm MST / 9-11am PST
$10 – 2 CEs for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.
Cost: $39.00
Description:

Early Childhood Court, an adapted approach modeled after Safe Babies Court Teams, is a collaborative approach among community partners to ensure trauma and FASD-informed care, child well-being, and achieving permanency more quickly.
Early Childhood Court is modeled from Safe Babies, a program of ZERO TO THREE™, helps states and communities strengthen child welfare and early childhood systems to support healthy development. Using the Safe Babies approach, the program works at multiple levels—child and family, community, and state—to promote early childhood well-being and long-term system improvements. Rooted in the court system, it also fosters collaboration across agencies to better serve families. This approach is especially valuable for supporting young children and families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Understand the core components of the Early Childhood Court, modeled from the Safe Babies Court Team (SBCT) approach and its positive impact on infants, toddlers, families, and communities.
Identify the short- and long-term risk factors for babies prenatally exposed to alcohol.
Recognize the importance of a trauma-informed, FASD-informed court system for children involved in or at risk of entering child welfare.

Presenters:
Anne Marie IrvingEarly Childhood Court Coordinator, 12th Judicial Circuit, Florida
Anne Marie Irving holds degrees in Psychology and Social Work and has earned professional certifications in Trauma and Resilience. With over 20 years of experience in child welfare, she has dedicated her career to supporting children and families through complex challenges with compassion and evidence-based practices. For the past six years, Anne Marie has worked directly with the Early Childhood Court in Florida’s 12th Judicial Circuit, where she applies her expertise in trauma-informed care, child development, and family systems to promote healing, stability, and long-term well-being for young children and their caregivers.
Kathryn Shea, LCSWFASD United Board Member
Kathryn has over 40 years of experience working with children with serious emotional and behavioral disorders and fetal alcohol and drug effects. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She served as the President and CEO of the Florida Center for Early Childhood in Sarasota, Florida for 12 years. Kathryn is a past president of the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health and has been very involved in developing and expanding Florida’s Early Childhood Court Initiative. Ms. Shea currently serves on the board of FASD United (formerly NOFAS) and is an independent consultant at the local, state, and national levels. Kathryn has received numerous awards for her work in infant mental health, FASD, and child advocacy.
This training may help prepare you for competencies related to the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health Endorsement. (For those outside Florida, check your state’s requirements).

Promoting Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood
2026-02-03 10:00 - 12:00
Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 10am – 12pm EST (9-11am CT/ 8-10am MT / 7-9am PST)
2 CEs included for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.
Cost: $59.00
Description:
This training highlights the vital role emotional intelligence (EI) plays in shaping healthy development and lifelong learning. Designed for early childhood educators and specialists, the session provides practical tools for fostering children’s self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and positive relationships within classroom and therapeutic settings. We welcome professionals and caregivers from around the world to join us! Feel free to share with fellow colleagues, family, friends, and professionals. Together we are better!
Learning Objectives:

Define the core elements of emotional intelligence and explain their significance in early childhood development.
Identify ways to intentionally support emotional growth through classroom practices, routines, and family partnerships.
Implement evidence-based strategies that strengthen self-regulation, empathy, and social connections in young children.

Presenter:
Kathryn Shea, LCSW, FASD United Board Member
Kathryn has over 40 years of experience working with children with serious emotional and behavioral disorders and fetal alcohol and drug effects. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She served as the President and CEO of the Florida Center for Early Childhood in Sarasota, Florida for 12 years. Kathryn is a past president of the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health and has been very involved in developing and expanding Florida’s Early Childhood Court Initiative. Ms. Shea currently serves on the board of FASD United (formerly NOFAS) and is an independent consultant at the local, state, and national levels. Kathryn has received numerous awards for her work in infant mental health, FASD, and child advocacy.
This training may help prepare you for competencies related to the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health Endorsement. (For those outside Florida, check your state’s requirements).

ALC of FASD Changemakers: FASD: It's all About the Dominos: The Big Five
2026-02-17 13:00 - 15:00
Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom
Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm EST, 12-2pm Ct, 11-1pm MT, 10-12pm PSTCost: FREE
Training Description:
In this workshop, the International Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers will explain and talk about what they call “inside the box thinking” behavior to describe how to better understand and think about FASD to support those who are living with it. This information is what they have learned as adults about a way to consider how, and why, their brains work differently and to understand – specifically – why the “behavioral” difficulties those with FASD of all ages experience occur. They will talk about this from five specific areas they believe are important to understand for anyone who is a parent or works with people of all ages with FASD. They believe this understanding is essential in working to build eventual success for those with FASD. They will present from the reference that this is “living experience…..not lived experience because “we are not past-tense; it is what we do; what happens every day” and that you must understand the processes involved to be more effective. They will apply the lens of what they wish people had understood when they were children.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood, home to Florida’s only FASD Diagnostic Clinics, located in Sarasota, Orlando, and the panhandle.
Learning Objectives:

Explain the concept of “inside the box thinking” and its relevance to FASD.
Identify core brain-based factors that contribute to behavioral challenges in individuals with FASD.
Apply an inside-the-box framework to improve support and intervention strategies for individuals with FASD.

ALC – FASD Changemakers
The International Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers is a well known group of citizen researchers and experts who each have diagnosed FASD. It is made up of 16 members. As a group, they have experienced all the events commonly associated with FASD but have learned how to overcome obstacles, maximize potential and re-define success. They use their combined living experience to work together as consultants, advisors, trainers, presenters, mentors, group moderators, bloggers, and as research project team members for universities and national organizations, centres and associations in several countries. They have organized, initiated, designed, developed and led full 3-day program conferences for teens and adults with FASD in both Vancouver and Seattle since 2014. As well, they develop and lead their own survey research, which has received wide interest by researchers, institutions, organizations, systems, and government and is currently being used to help focus research directions and questions. Their first survey on the health of 500 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2020, and their second survey on the quality of life of 450 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2024. A third Lay of the Land survey is currently in the initial stages of discussion.
Presenters:
CJ Lutke – CanadaCJ Lutke, who is 41, was diagnosed with full FAS at birth and adopted by her foster family at age five, who had already adopted her older brother and sister who also have FASD. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented at and participated in many conferences, seminars, training sessions and other events for over 20 years. CJ is a systems changer and advocate, provides advice and consultation and participates as an advisor and team member for different research projects. She currently sits on various committees, including one to make changes to the family court system in British Columbia (BC), chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of BC, and has just been asked to be on a research project on suicidality in those with FASD by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the national centre in Canada. She provides mentoring to younger adults with FASD and is the author of an on-line blog that is hosted by NOFASD Australia which is followed globally. As well, CJ has been a member of the Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers for 15 year and was one of its founders. She was the co-lead on their first ground-breaking Lay of the Land Survey on the health and physical issues of adults with diagnosed FASD that has received wide international attention and was published in 2020. CJ was the lead author on their second Lay of the Land Survey on the Quality of Life of Adults with diagnosed FASD, results of which have been presented widely including to NIAAA and were published in 2024. As well, CJ became an adoptive parent when she adopted her now 12-year-old son (with FASD) from foster care when he was seven. CJ believes that those with FASD must challenge perceptions about possibilities and outcomes, find their purpose and change the future. Her goal is to help others with FASD find their voice and to understand that we are greater when we work together.
Maggie May – IrelandMaggie May, who is 29 years old, was diagnosed at the age of five with FAS in foster care, where she grew up. She was born in and has lived her entire life in Ireland. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented widely, moderates several on-line groups including the largest global online support group for teens and adults with FASD and provides online mentoring to teens with FASD in several countries. Maggie is a systems changed and advocate and has been a member of the ALC for 5 years. She works for FASD UK. She is currently an expert advisory committee member for the development of a health app for adults with FASD by the University of Rochester, USA. Maggie’s goal is to help audiences change the way they view FASD, educate society to build environments for success, and empower those with FASD to find their own voices, purpose and the courage to be who they are and achieve what they want to do.

From Birth to Milestones: Early Childhood Development for Professionals
2026-02-19 10:00 - 12:00
Thursday, February 19, 2026, 10am – 12pm EST (9-11am CT/ 8-10am MT / 7-9am PST)
2 CEs included for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.The Florida Certification Board recognizes this training in the area of child welfare.
Cost: $59.00
Description:
This training helps professionals working with children assess development from birth through early childhood and support children and families effectively. It covers developmental milestones, responsive caregiving, family and cultural influences, and early identification of developmental delays to promote healthy outcomes for children with diverse needs.
Learning Objectives:

Describe early childhood developmental stages.
Explain the impact of milestones on behavior and learning.
Identify early signs of developmental delays.
Apply responsive, culturally informed strategies to support children and families.

Presenter:
Dr. Maria Hand, Certified Child Welfare Trainer
Dr. Maria Hand, a Doctor of Criminal Justice with a specialization in Education from Saint Leo University, brings over 13 years of child welfare experience and seven years as a trainer for child welfare and mental health professionals. She currently serves as Case Manager Supervisor with the Florida Center for Early Childhood, providing leadership and support to staff serving vulnerable children and families. A Certified Child Welfare Trainer, Maria delivers engaging, evidence-informed trainings that emphasize trauma-informed care, ethical practice, skill development, and practical strategies to support children, families, and professionals in real-world settings.

Sleep Baby Safely
2026-02-20 11:00 - 12:30
LIVE Virtual Training via Zoom
Date: Friday, February 20, 2026Time: 11:00am – 12:30pm EST (10-11:30am CT/ 9-10:30am MT / 8-9:30am PST)
1.5 CEs included for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.The Florida Certification Board recognizes this training in the area of child welfare.
Cost: $29.00
Description:
This training examines current data on infant sleep-related deaths in Manatee County, Florida, and across the United States to provide critical context for prevention efforts. Participants will explore the science and evidence behind safe sleep education and learn best practices for creating safe sleep environments for infants. The session also addresses common barriers to safe sleep and offers practical strategies to support families in helping babies reach their first birthdays. Designed for professionals working with infants and families, this training emphasizes knowledge, discussion, and actionable prevention strategies.
Learning Objectives:

Examine the facts and data related to infant sleep-related deaths in Manatee County Florida, and across the United States.
Learn the best way to sleep babies safely – and the science behind these safety tips.
Discuss how all of you can help promote safe sleep for babies so they reach their first birthday.

Presenter:
Dr. Maria Hand, Certified Child Welfare Trainer
Dr. Maria Hand, a Doctor of Criminal Justice with a specialization in Education from Saint Leo University, brings over 13 years of child welfare experience and seven years as a trainer for child welfare and mental health professionals. She currently serves as Case Manager Supervisor with the Florida Center for Early Childhood, providing leadership and support to staff serving vulnerable children and families. A Certified Child Welfare Trainer, Maria delivers engaging, evidence-informed trainings that emphasize trauma-informed care, ethical practice, skill development, and practical strategies to support children, families, and professionals in real-world settings.

The Big 3: Lying, Stealing and Raging PLUS (+)
2026-02-24 19:30 - 21:30
The Big 3: Raging, Lying, and Stealing PLUS (+)

The Big 3: Raging, Lying, and Stealing
(2 hour webinar)
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm EST / 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm CST
Cost: $27 Early-bird price until February 2nd, $39 (beginning February 3rd)
** Did you attend or view the recording through the Training Institute, and wish a refresh, email Jennifer.Werden@TheFloridaCenter.org
PLUS (+) – 4 1-Hour Monthly Caregiver Coaching Series
Dates: March 25, April 22, May 27, and June 24, 2026
Time: 8:00-9:00 pm EST / 7:00-8:00 CST
Cost: $80 Early-bird price until February 2nd, then $99
(4 Sessions – $20 each at early-bird pricing)
Space is limited, early registration highly recommended.
Pricing available as follows:
The Big 3 attendance: $27 EB / $39 Full
The Big 3 refresh: $10
Coaching Series: $80 EB / $99 Full
The Big 3: Raging, Lying, and Stealing
(2 hour webinar)
Description:
Children and adolescents who have experienced trauma have unique brain wiring and are often at a mixture of developmental ages. Traditional consequence-based behavioral strategies or rewards are often not effective and can lead to further trauma and impact the relationship between the adults and children/adolescents. Participants will learn new approaches to use with children and adolescents who have trauma histories which will help you to understand and support them better and improve communication and relationships. The strategies we will cover are recommended for in-utero trauma such as FASD and also for trauma they may have experienced after birth. We will specifically cover the Big 3; raging, lying, and stealing.
Learning Objectives:

Explore why consequence/punitive based approaches are not effective with youth who have trauma histories
Identify trauma responsive approaches which promote connection and relationships
Understand the neurobehavioral aspect of challenging behaviors
Learn concrete ideas for responding to challenging behaviors

Presenter:
Barb Clark is a down-to-earth trainer and coach known for her no-fluff honesty, humor, and ability to turn tough topics into opportunities for growth and connection. She has trained thousands across the U.S., Canada, and beyond, helping people understand challenging behaviors through compassion, brain science, and lived experience. A parent of five now-adult children, including one with FASD—and having received her own FASD diagnosis at 56—Barb brings hard-earned insight to her work coaching parents and caregivers. Her first book, Raising Kids and Teens with FASD, was released October 21, 2025.

Cost: Early-bird $27 until February 2, 2026, then $39.00
For parents, caregivers, and professionals.
PLUS (+) – 4 1-Hour Monthly Caregiver Coaching Series
Interested in diving deeper?
Many caregivers complete training on The Big 3 and then ask, “How do I take what I’ve learned and handle this at home?” That is where the Plus comes in. With monthly caregiver coaching over four months, you will be supported by experienced coaches who understand this journey, not just professionally, but personally.
Together, we will focus on:

Understanding behaviors through a brain-based lens
Finding strategies that fit your child and your family
Problem-solving real challenges in real time
Building community with caregivers who get it
Leaving each session feeling more confident and hopeful

Attending The Big 3 training is a requirement to register for the coaching sessions. Spaces are limited. Register now!
The Coaching Series will be lead by Barb Clark and Crystal Dethlefs.
Crystal Dethlefs
FASD Parent Advocate at The Florida Center Crystal Dethlefs is the proud biological & adoptive mother of seven, including four siblings who joined the family as infants, after prenatal alcohol exposure.
She is passionate about providing caregivers and professionals with the knowledge and tolls necessary to support individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, recognizing that informed care will bring
about positive outcomes for those with FASD. Crystal is a Parent Advocate with The Florida Center for Early Childhood FASD Clinic.

RECORDING OF The Big 3: Lying, Stealing and Raging (available 2/25/26-2/23/27)
2026-02-24 21:30 - 2027-02-23 23:59
This is a special opportunity to view the recording at your convenience, and available for purchase and viewing until midnight February 23, 2027.
Children and adolescents who have experienced trauma have unique brain wiring and are often at a mixture of developmental ages. Typical consequence-based behavioral strategies are often not effective and can lead to further trauma and impact the relationship between the adults and children/adolescents. Participants will learn new approaches to use with children and adolescents who have trauma histories which will help you to understand them better and improve communication and relationships. The strategies we will cover are recommended for in-utero trauma such as FASD and also for trauma they may have experienced after birth. We will specifically cover the Big 3; lying, stealing and raging.
Presented by: Barb Clark
Barb Clark is a down-to-earth trainer and coach known for her no-fluff honesty, humor, and ability to turn tough topics into opportunities for growth and connection. She has trained thousands across the U.S., Canada, and beyond, helping people understand challenging behaviors through compassion, brain science, and lived experience. A parent of five now-adult children, including one with FASD—and having received her own FASD diagnosis at 56—Barb brings hard-earned insight to her work coaching parents and caregivers. Her first book, Raising Kids and Teens with FASD, was released October 21, 2025.
Cost: $39.00 to view the recording
For parents, caregivers, and professionals.

What Parents Should Know About Youth and Substance Use
2026-03-03 11:00 - 12:00
LIVE Virtual Training via Zoom
Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm EST (10-11:00am CT/ 9-10:00am MT / 8-9:00am PST)
1 CEs included for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.The Florida Certification Board recognizes this training in the area of child welfare and mental health.
Cost: FREE
Description:
What Parents Need to Know About Youth and Substance Use is a one-hour training by the Florida Center Training Institute featuring Linda Christensen of Suncoast Institute on Chemical Dependency. This educational training equips parents with practical, science-based tools to help prevent youth substance misuse and addiction. Parents will learn what addiction is and is not, how the developing brain works, and why youth are especially vulnerable. The session explores environmental, behavioral, and developmental risk factors, and provides 12 concrete actions parents can take, along with effective communication strategies that build trust, awareness, and healthy decision-making at home.
Learning Objectives:

Define addiction and distinguish it from common myths.
Explain how youth brain development increases vulnerability to substance use.
Identify key risk factors for youth substance misuse.
Recognize warning signs of substance misuse and addiction.
Describe evidence-based strategies parents can use to help prevent addiction.
Apply effective communication strategies when talking with children about substance use

Presenter:
Linda Christensen, BS, MEd, Director of Education Program for Suncoast Institute on Chemical DependencyWith 35 years in urban education, Linda brings deep experience in teaching, mentoring educators, and designing impactful learning programs. Drawing on lived experience of recovery, she now educates communities on substance use disorder, prevention, and pathways to healing—grounded in the belief that education and understanding save lives.

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
2026-03-04 11:00 - 12:30
This is a Live Virtual Zoom webinar
Wednesday, March 4, 202611-12:30pm EST / 10-11:30am CST / 9-10:30am MST / 8-9:30am PST
$10 – 2 CEs for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.Florida Certification Board recognizes this training for continuing education in the areas of mental health and child welfare.
Cost: $49.00 Early-Bird until 2/20, then $69.00
Florida’s in our name — but our support is global.We connect caregivers and professionals around the world with knowledge, training, and community.Join us. Wherever you are, we’re with you.
Description:Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders are often missed or misunderstood, especially in children who may struggle to explain what they are experiencing. Early recognition makes a meaningful difference in getting individuals the right support. This presentation will enhance participants’ understanding of these disorders through reviewing the diagnostic criteria, identifying key red flags to watch for, exploring the different themes and patterns in how OCD presents in everyday life across different developmental stages, and detecting when symptoms are impairing and treatment may be needed.
Learning Objectives:

Describe the diagnostic criteria for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders.
Identify key red flags that may indicate the presence of OCD.
Recognize common themes and presentation patterns of OCD across developmental stages.
Determine when OCD symptoms meet the threshold for clinical impairment and require treatment.

Presenters:
Isabel (Izzy) Brahn, LMHC, NCCIsabel (Izzy) Brahm (formerly Devorkin) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Izzy received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse, and continued her education at Mount Mary University where she earned a Master’s in Clinical Mental health Counseling. Izzy completed her hours toward licensure under the supervision of the practice owner, Dr. Gibson.
Izzy completed her internship experience with Children’s Wisconsin, where she worked with children and their parents utilizing a variety of interventions such as Play Therapy, TheraPlay, and Child Parent Psychotherapy. There Izzy gained extensive experience with younger children ages 2-8. Izzy also gained experience understanding treatment needs through a trauma lens.
Izzy is passionate about supporting children, teens, and parents, with a strong focus on evidence-based therapies to help them navigate challenges and build lasting resilience. She believes in meeting each individual and family where they are, recognizing their unique strengths and needs while providing personalized, compassionate care. Izzy prioritizes building strong, trusting relationships with every client who walks into her office, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered.
With experience using trauma-informed and strength-based approaches, Izzy has worked with children with PTSD, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. She has provided one-on-one support to a child with Autism on daily living skills, worked closely with at-risk teens, and gained hands-on experience as a teaching assistant in a child care center.
Izzy has completed training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and treating school refusal. In November 2024, she completed the International OCD Foundation Pediatric Behavior Therapy Training Institute Training, focusing on Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to effectively treat children with OCD and related disorders, including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). Additionally, she completed TLC’s Virtual Professional Training Institute on treating BFRBs and is trained to provide SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a therapy for child anxiety and/or OCD that works with parents only. Izzy and Dr Gibson co-created Mighty Minds, an OCD camp for kids and teens, which Izzy now directs each summer.Izzy is a certified Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) therapist. Izzy is also certified in PCIT Adapted for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM). Izzy serves as the site supervisor for undergraduate interns.
Katherine (Kate) Gibson, Psy.D., ABPPDr. Kate Gibson started her mental health career in Sarasota, Florida in 1998 at the Coastal Recovery Center Crisis Stabilization Unit followed by the Coastal Recovery Center Juvenile Assessment Center before pursuing her graduate education. Dr. Gibson received her Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego, CA in 2008. Prior to that Dr. Gibson earned a Master of Arts degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, NY. Dr. Gibson is Board Certified in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology, and is a National Register Health Service Psychologist.
Dr. Gibson provides therapy to children, teens and families with a supportive, goal oriented, and cognitive behavioral (CBT) focus. Dr. Gibson is experienced at treating anxiety disorders, OCD and related disorders, trauma, mood disorders, attention difficulties, impulsivity, and other behavioral problems in children. In 2016 Dr. Gibson completed the International OCD Foundation Pediatric Behavior Therapy Training Institute Training on using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to effectively treat children with OCD and related disorders such as Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) like trichotillomania and excoriation disorder. Dr. Gibson is also trained to provide SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a therapy for child anxiety and/or OCD that works with parents only.
Dr. Gibson is certified by PCIT International as a Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Therapist and Regional Trainer (able to train clinicians in Florida to become PCIT therapists or Within Agency Trainers). Dr. Gibson is certified by Kurtz Psychology Consulting as a Therapist and Within Agency Trainer for PCIT adapted for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM). Dr. Gibson is first author of “Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Adapted for Older Children: A Research Development Manual.” Dr. Gibson is rostered to provide the adaptation “PCIT with Toddlers” as well.
Dr. Gibson has additional expertise in the treatment of trauma in children. Dr. Gibson specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is a certified TF-CBT therapist. Dr. Gibson is also trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), an attachment based trauma focused therapy for young children and their caregivers Dr. Gibson has done research in the areas of trauma resulting from intimate partner violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and trauma program evaluation.
Dr. Gibson Co-Founded the first Parent and Child Psychological Services in New York City in 2010, where she provided therapy, assessment and supervision before relocating to Florida and opening Parent and Child Psychological Services in Sarasota in 2014. In New York Dr. Gibson co-founded a women’s health and wellness private practitioner networking group. Dr. Gibson worked with Unleashed, an after school leadership program for middle school girls in New York City that involved them in animal rescue. In addition to running Parent and Child Psychological Services of Sarasota, Dr. Gibson was the Training Director at Kurtz Psychology Consulting from 2019 to 2022. In that role Dr. Gibson coordinated training of undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate trainees in PCIT, PCIT-SM and CBT. Dr. Gibson was also co-director of the Kurtz Psychology MMK SM camp. Dr. Gibson created a 1-day intensive for children with SM focused on parent coaching in a simulated village called Lifetown in Livingston, NJ and implemented the intensive at Kurtz Psychology and Caring Cove. Dr. Gibson worked at Caring Cove in Chatham, NJ from 2022-2023 where she co-directed the first MMK New Jersey assisting the program with adopting the SM Intensive Group Behavioral Treatment camp model from Kurtz Psychology. Dr. Gibson brought MMK to this practice in Sarasota in the Summer of 2023. Dr Gibson assisted in the creation and development of Mighty Minds- OCD camp that will launched in June 2024.
​Dr. Gibson completed American Psychological Association (APA) accredited clinical training at Astor Services for Children and Families, a non-profit outpatient community mental health center in the Bronx, NY where she worked in both outpatient and day treatment settings. Dr. Gibson went on to be the Clinical Supervisor at one of Astor’s outpatient clinics. Dr. Gibson also completed clinical training at two trauma specialty clinics: The Chadwick Center for Children and Families in San Diego, CA (treating children and parents of children who had been exposed to trauma using the Trauma Assessment Pathway (TAP)), and Safe Horizon Counseling Center in Brooklyn, NY.
​Dr. Gibson is passionate about providing and training others to provide high quality care. Dr Gibson provides training, consultation and supervision on the implementation of Evidence Based Treatments for children and adolescents.

This training may help prepare you for competencies related to the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health Endorsement. (For those outside Florida, check your state’s requirements).

Families Moving Forward (FMF) Foundations Specialist Training
2026-03-10 10:30 - 16:30
Transform Your Practice with Evidence-based FASD Intervention
The Families Moving Forward (FMF) Specialist Training equips master’s-level professionals with the expertise to deliver a scientifically validated intervention for families affected by prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Recognized as a promising practice by the California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse and recommended by the CDC, this comprehensive program combines positive behavior support, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy to create lasting positive outcomes.
Training Schedule & Registration – NEW datesSix Full-Day Virtual Sessions:

Dates: March 10, 13, 20, 27, 31 and April 10, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM EST
Cost: $2,500

Application deadline: Monday, February 9, 2026 – No application fee. Complete our registration form to receive your application.
Program StructureThe FMF Program delivers expert training through two essential phases:

Six days of comprehensive virtual instruction
12 or 18 hours of intervention fidelity training ($150/hour)

Training includes:

Live instruction and interactive discussions via Zoom
Extensive case studies and practical applications
Complete access to the FMF Website Portal with specialized clinical materials
Ongoing support and implementation guidance

Eligibility RequirementsThis program is designed for master’s level professionals in counseling, social work, psychology, or related fields working with families affected by PAE/FASD.
Clinical FrameworkThe FMF Program serves children ages 3 to 13 (or those functioning within this range) and their families through a flexible delivery model that can be implemented both in-person and via telehealth. Our evidence-based approach helps parents transform their understanding of FASD while developing effective strategies to address behavioral challenges.
Expert LeadershipDr. Anika Trancik leads our training program with over two decades of specialized experience in FASD. Her background includes:

Licensed child clinical psychologist
14 years as Clinical Psychologist at Florida’s pioneering FASD Clinic
Original member of the FMF Program development team at the University of Washington
Primary National FMF Trainer

Program Impact & BenefitsParticipants will gain:

Deep understanding of FASD/PAE and associated stigma
Evidence-based intervention strategies
Customizable treatment approaches
Comprehensive clinical resources
Confidence in delivering specialized care for children with FASD/PAE and early adversity

The training provides:

30 CE credits through FL CEBrokers for:

Licensed Clinical Social Workers
Marriage and Family Therapists
Mental Health Counselors
Certified Master Social Workers

Offered by The Florida Training Institute in partnership with the Families Moving Forward Program Office in Seattle, Washington.
Elevate your clinical practice with specialized FASD intervention training
Request your application now by clicking “Register” below
For more information or registration assistance, contact: Training@TheFloridaCenter.org

Motivational Interviewing Essentials for Professionals
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00
Thursday, March 12, 2026, 12pm – 1pm EST (11am-12pm CT/ 10-11am MT / 9am -10am PST)
1 CE included for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.The Florida Certification Board recognizes this training in the area of child welfare and mental health.
Cost: $49.00 Early-bird until 3/5, then $59
Description:
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based, client-centered approach designed to strengthen motivation for change. This interactive training introduces professionals to the foundational principles and practical skills of MI, equipping participants with tools to foster meaningful, goal-oriented conversations across a variety of settings. Participants will explore the core spirit and principles of Motivational Interviewing, including partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation. The training provides a structured overview of OARS—Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summaries—and examines how these core communication skills enhance engagement and reduce resistance. In addition, participants will learn the technique of developing discrepancy to help individuals explore the gap between their current behaviors and personal values or goals. Through guided instruction, attendees will demonstrate the use of OARS skills and begin integrating MI-consistent strategies into their professional practice. This training is ideal for healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals, educators, social service providers, leaders, and other professionals seeking to strengthen their conversational skills and support sustainable behavior change.
Learning Objectives:

Define the core principles and spirit of Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Discuss the components of OARS
Identify the technique of developing discrepancies
Demonstrate the use of OARS skills in structured practice scenarios

This training is designed for professionals, wherever you may reside. Feel free to share with fellow colleagues, and professionals. Together we are better!
Presenter:
Dr. Maria Hand, Certified Child Welfare Trainer
Dr. Maria Hand, a Doctor of Criminal Justice with a specialization in Education from Saint Leo University, brings over 13 years of child welfare experience and seven years as a trainer for child welfare and mental health professionals. She currently serves as Case Manager Supervisor with the Florida Center for Early Childhood, providing leadership and support to staff serving vulnerable children and families. A Certified Child Welfare Trainer, Maria delivers engaging, evidence-informed trainings that emphasize trauma-informed care, ethical practice, skill development, and practical strategies to support children, families, and professionals in real-world settings.

ALC of FASD Changemakers: FASD and Communication: How Hard Can It Be? Lost in Transmission; Lost in Translation: The “Transmislation Trap”
2026-03-17 13:00 - 15:00
Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom
Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm EST, 12-2pm Ct, 11-1pm MT, 10-12pm PSTCost: FREE
There has been an adjustment to the name of this training. It is now called: FASD and Communication: How Hard Can It Be? Lost in Transmission; Lost in Translation: The “Transmislation Trap”
Training Description:
If the ALC could have one wish for those with FASD, it would be that they talked only as well as they understood, in which case the communication disability would be obvious. Unfortunately, this is not the case. There are only a small handful of disorders (genetic or brain injury, etc) in which receptive language is impaired while expressive language is good. But FASD is not a genetic disorder; it is not a stroke; it is not a traumatic brain injury; and since 75% of people with FASD are not intellectually disabled, this big problem that affects almost everyone with FASD, regardless of intellectual level, gets missed. So why is this a missed problem in FASD? What happens? How does it happen? What can be done about it? Because humans who talk well are almost always assumed to understand well, the kind of daily behavior that is affected in FASD is seen to be just that – “deliberate behavior” and is the root of so very many problems. But effective communication is a two-way process and only one part is in any way under any control of the person with FASD; the other part is completely within the control and power of the other person. Even though it is said that 70% of all communication is non-verbal, it is the 30% that is verbal communication, both spoken and written, that is so crucial to how we function. If we want to have functional, working communication, in which messages are actually understood as intended, we have to deal with that 30%.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood, home to Florida’s only FASD Diagnostic Clinics, located in Sarasota, Orlando, and the panhandle.
Learning Objectives:

Differentiate between expressive and receptive language challenges in individuals with FASD.
Recognize signs of receptive language impairment that may be misinterpreted as intentional behavior.
Apply practical communication strategies to improve understanding and two-way verbal interactions.

ALC – FASD Changemakers
The International Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers is a well known group of citizen researchers and experts who each have diagnosed FASD. It is made up of 16 members. As a group, they have experienced all the events commonly associated with FASD but have learned how to overcome obstacles, maximize potential and re-define success. They use their combined living experience to work together as consultants, advisors, trainers, presenters, mentors, group moderators, bloggers, and as research project team members for universities and national organizations, centres and associations in several countries. They have organized, initiated, designed, developed and led full 3-day program conferences for teens and adults with FASD in both Vancouver and Seattle since 2014. As well, they develop and lead their own survey research, which has received wide interest by researchers, institutions, organizations, systems, and government and is currently being used to help focus research directions and questions. Their first survey on the health of 500 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2020, and their second survey on the quality of life of 450 adults with diagnosed FASD was published in 2024. A third Lay of the Land survey is currently in the initial stages of discussion.
Presenters:
CJ Lutke – CanadaCJ Lutke, who is 41, was diagnosed with full FAS at birth and adopted by her foster family at age five, who had already adopted her older brother and sister who also have FASD. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented at and participated in many conferences, seminars, training sessions and other events for over 20 years. CJ is a systems changer and advocate, provides advice and consultation and participates as an advisor and team member for different research projects. She currently sits on various committees, including one to make changes to the family court system in British Columbia (BC), chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of BC, and has just been asked to be on a research project on suicidality in those with FASD by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the national centre in Canada. She provides mentoring to younger adults with FASD and is the author of an on-line blog that is hosted by NOFASD Australia which is followed globally. As well, CJ has been a member of the Adult Leadership Collaborative (ALC) of FASD Changemakers for 15 year and was one of its founders. She was the co-lead on their first ground-breaking Lay of the Land Survey on the health and physical issues of adults with diagnosed FASD that has received wide international attention and was published in 2020. CJ was the lead author on their second Lay of the Land Survey on the Quality of Life of Adults with diagnosed FASD, results of which have been presented widely including to NIAAA and were published in 2024. As well, CJ became an adoptive parent when she adopted her now 12-year-old son (with FASD) from foster care when he was seven. CJ believes that those with FASD must challenge perceptions about possibilities and outcomes, find their purpose and change the future. Her goal is to help others with FASD find their voice and to understand that we are greater when we work together.
Maggie May – IrelandMaggie May, who is 29 years old, was diagnosed at the age of five with FAS in foster care, where she grew up. She was born in and has lived her entire life in Ireland. She is a well-known speaker on FASD, having presented widely, moderates several on-line groups including the largest global online support group for teens and adults with FASD and provides online mentoring to teens with FASD in several countries. Maggie is a systems changed and advocate and has been a member of the ALC for 5 years. She works for FASD UK. She is currently an expert advisory committee member for the development of a health app for adults with FASD by the University of Rochester, USA. Maggie’s goal is to help audiences change the way they view FASD, educate society to build environments for success, and empower those with FASD to find their own voices, purpose and the courage to be who they are and achieve what they want to do.

Past Lessons, Future Impact: Reflectively Applying the Family Lens to Enhance Community Response
2026-03-24 10:00 - 12:00
FREE Live Interactive Online Training offered on Zoom
2 CEs ($10) for Florida LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, CMSW offered through Florida CEBrokers.Florida Certification Board recognizes this training for mental health and child welfare.
Who is this training for?This presentation is designed for professionals across child- and family-serving systems who want to strengthen collaboration, examine internal practices, and partner more effectively with families to prevent future crises.
Training Description:This presentation explores the complex needs of children and caregivers within the Child & Family Well-Being System, focusing on invisible, brain-based challenges related to prenatal alcohol and substance exposure. Through a case study, we will examine perspectives from professional and those with lived experience as participants explore how behaviors often labeled as “non-compliant” or “combative” reflect unmet needs and frustration. The training highlights missed opportunities for early intervention, the escalation of crises, and practical, compassionate strategies to better support families.
Learning Objectives:

Recognize invisible, brain-based differences related to prenatal substance exposure and their impact on behavior.
Reframe “non-compliant” or “combative” behaviors as signs of unmet needs rather than intentional defiance.
Understand how missed early intervention contributes to increased crises, including Baker Acts and lock-out calls.
Apply compassionate, practical strategies to better support children and caregivers within the Child & Family Well Being System.

Presenters:Tamra Cajo, LCSW, Director of FASD ServicesNathan Scott, B.A., CCPP, Child & Family Well-BeingJenn Werden, MSW, Outreach and Engagement Coordinator of the FASD ClinicElida Mujic, Circuit 12 Community Development AdministratorJen Propsom, CPRS-F/A High Fidelity Wraparound Coach and Facilitator.

Circle of Security- 8 week Parenting Course
2026-03-25 18:00 - 19:30
Circle of Security8-week Parenting Course
Days: Wednesdays, March 25 – May 13, 2026Time: 6:00 – 7:30 pm ESTCost: $99Class size is limited to 15.
12 CEs $10 for Florida LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and MCSW through CEBroker, Certificates provided for self-reporting for others.
GREAT FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN BIRTH THROUGH 11 YEARS OLD, AS WELL AS PROFESSIONALS
DESCRIPTION:As parents/caregivers, we often think, “Are we getting it right?” We base our parenting on experiences from our own childhood, advice from others, and our instincts and beliefs. But often we feel overwhelmed and challenged by our child(ren).The Circle of Security © Parenting eight-week course provides relationship tools to offer a new way of understanding your child. You will learn how secure relationships can be supported and strengthened, pick up on cues your child is communicating, and be able to identify when they need encouragement to do things on their own or emotional support. This training is not recorded. Participants must attend all sessions to receive a certificate.
This evidence-based curriculum is great for parents, caregivers of children from birth through 11 years old, as well as professionals.
TAKEAWAYS:

Understand and respond to children’s emotional needs
Help your child manage feelings and behaviors
Honor your inner wisdom and desire for your child(ren) to be secure
Help children build a healthy foundation for a lifetime of success
Understand the importance of attachment in healthy growth anddevelopment

Circle of Security Facilitator:
Jailene Soto, MSEarly Childhood Mental Health Consultant, The Florida Center for Early Childhood
Jailene has been working with children and families since 2017. She has combined professional experience and academic training in public health with a focus on children’s health, along with a master’s degree in family education. She has worked with diverse groups of children and has knowledge of children’s development, social-emotional health, and children’s programming.

The Big 3: Lying, Stealing and Raging PLUS (+)
2026-03-25 20:00 - 21:00
PLUS (+): 4 1-Hour Monthly Caregiver Coaching Series
Dates: March 25, April 22, May 27, and June 24, 2026
Time: 8:00-9:00 pm EST / 7:00-8:00 CST
Cost: $99
Attending The Big 3 training is a requirement to register for the coaching sessions. Click here to purchase ($39) the recording.
Many caregivers complete training on The Big 3 and then ask, “How do I take what I’ve learned and handle this at home?” That is where the Plus comes in. With monthly caregiver coaching over four months, you will be supported by experienced coaches who understand this journey, not just professionally, but personally.
Together, we will focus on:

Understanding behaviors through a brain-based lens
Finding strategies that fit your child and your family
Problem-solving real challenges in real time
Building community with caregivers who get it
Leaving each session feeling more confident and hopeful

Space is limited to 40 participants.
The Coaching Series will be lead by Barb Clark and Crystal Dethlefs.
Presenter:
Barb Clark is a down-to-earth trainer and coach known for her no-fluff honesty, humor, and ability to turn tough topics into opportunities for growth and connection. She has trained thousands across the U.S., Canada, and beyond, helping people understand challenging behaviors through compassion, brain science, and lived experience. A parent of five now-adult children, including one with FASD—and having received her own FASD diagnosis at 56—Barb brings hard-earned insight to her work coaching parents and caregivers. Her first book, Raising Kids and Teens with FASD, was released October 21, 2025.
Crystal Dethlefs
FASD Parent Advocate at The Florida Center Crystal Dethlefs is the proud biological & adoptive mother of seven, including four siblings who joined the family as infants, after prenatal alcohol exposure.
She is passionate about providing caregivers and professionals with the knowledge and tolls necessary to support individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, recognizing that informed care will bring
about positive outcomes for those with FASD. Crystal is a Parent Advocate with The Florida Center for Early Childhood FASD Clinic.

Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) Caregiver Training (12 CEs) - 6 Sessions
2026-03-27 13:00 - 15:00
TBRI® Caregiver Training – live virtual training (this training is NOT recorded)
Dates: March 27 – May 8, 2026 (Fridays on 03/24, 04/10, 04/17, 04/24, 05/01, 05/08 – no class on 04/03 due to offices closed to observe Good Friday)Time: 1pm-3pm EST, 12pm-2pm CT, 11am-1pm MT, 10am-12pm PSTCost: $159 single/couple (early-bird until March 9th, then $179), addition of client $79,
Continuing Education:12 CEs ($25) available for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.Florida Certification Board recognizes this training for mental health and child welfare.
Participation in this training may be applied toward your annual foster parent training requirements.
DESCRIPTION:TBRI® is an attachment-based, evidence-based, and trauma-informed intervention that is designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children. TBRI uses Empowering Principles to address physical needs, Connecting Principles for attachment needs, and Correcting Principles to disarm fear-based behaviors. The TBRI Caregiver Training is designed for TBRI Practitioners to train caregivers, broadly speaking, within their organization in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), equipping staff/caregivers with the skills and tools needed to be successful in their various roles. This training will not be recorded.
The TBRI Caregiver Training offers training on 4 TBRI topics:1) Introduction & Overview – a TBRI primer2) Empowering Principles – address physical needs3) Connecting Principles – address attachment needs4) Correcting Principles – address fear-based behaviors
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:Helps caregivers to see the need behind the behaviorsOffer practical tools to support the individual needs of childrenBring hope and healing to families experiencing challenges when traditional parenting is not effective.
TBRI Practitioner:
Melannie Webster, TBRI Practitioner, and Child Advocate
Melannie Webster, a compassionate and dedicated individual with a degree in early childhood education and in pursuit of a master’s in psychology. As a certified TBRI practitioner and MSOW instructor through the Halo Project, she is passionate about supporting children who have experienced trauma and helping parents navigate the challenges of adoption. Melannie’s personal journey as an adoptive parent has inspired her mission to create a positive impact in the lives of families through understanding, empathy, and nurturing care.

RECORDING OF The Difference Between Autism and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
2026-03-30 12:00 - 2026-12-31 13:00
This is a special opportunity to view the recording at your convenience, and available for purchase for $39.00. This service is not automated, and will be forwarded during business hours.
This one-hour presentation will discuss the similarities and differences between Autism and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (ASD/FASD). Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) cover various conditions caused by moms drinking alcohol during pregnancy, leading to changes in the body and brain. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex brain-related condition. Some experts think that when moms drink during pregnancy, it might raise the chances of their child having ASD, especially if there’s a family history. This review aims to break down the research on the possible connection between FASD and ASD. Studies in this area have given mixed results, showing both similarities and differences between the two conditions. What’s interesting is that both disorders often get misunderstood or not recognized enough. So, it’s crucial to look beyond the obvious signs and pay attention to subtler traits and less severe cases.
Objectives:

Better understanding of similarities and differences between FASD and ASD
Able to identify at least four similarities/differences in social behaviors in FASD and ASD.
Learn different teaching methods for working with students with ASD/FASD.

Presented By Kathryn Shea, LCSW, FASD United Board MemberOver 40 years of experience in the field, and has a son Seth, who is 35 years of age who they received very shortly after birth.

ONGOING COURSE: Life Lesson: Post-Separation Proactive Parenting (High Conflict Parenting) / Lección de Vida: Después de la Separación
2026-03-30 18:00 - 2026-10-07 20:00
The Life Lesson: Post-Separation Proactive Parenting course is ongoing and accepts new parents weekly. (Scroll down for information about the Course offered in Spanish / Continue hacia abajo para information en espanol.
Spanish Classes begin August 2025
Clases en espanol comienzan en agosto 2025 –
This course supports parents who have decided to end their relationship and are experiencing conflict that directly or indirectly affects their child(ren). With over twelve years of experience assisting families, Shaun Hoyle continues to guide high-conflict parents through this transformative program.
The course teaches participants how to move from conflict-based parenting to parallel parenting, and when possible, toward healthy co-parenting. Many parents find that parallel parenting brings greater peace to their families and helps build resilience for both themselves and their children.
We are excited to announce that Mayra Cestero, M.A., will join our team and begin offering this course in Spanish, with new intakes starting July 14, 2025, and the first class beginning August 12 & 14, 2025.
Request to enroll today to bring peace and resiliency to your family.
An ongoing LIVE online course with twelve two-hour sessions attended weekly (once a week.)
When parents both attend the course, they attend separate classes.
Classes (in English) are available on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m EST.
Classes (in Spanish) are available on Tuesday or Thursday, 6 pm. – 8 pm beginning August 12 & 14, 2025. Call now to book your intake which begin July 14, 2025.
Both parents do not need to attend to achieve peace in their families.
One-hour intake is: $84.00, and each of the 12 two-hour sessions: $48.00
Partial payments ($48) may be made weekly.
Total: $660.00
Complete the “registration” to request to register. Parents will be contacted to set up an in-take session. The intake session must be completed prior to the first session. Time/Day priority is on a first-call basis when both parents are referred or ordered by the court.
All services are offered on a volunteer basis or court-ordered. Send court order / referral paperwork to: Training@TheFloridaCenter.org.
Instructor provides:
A Certificate of Enrollment is provided upon the parent completing the one-hour in-take session, signing intake paperwork, and paying for the in-take session.
Certificate of Attendance / Completion is provided after twelve two-hour sessions and in-take, full payment, and other program agreements which are covered during the in-take.

Facilitated by Shaun Hoyle, CPE

Ms. Shaun Hoyle, CPE, Director of Training at The Florida Center Training Institute, a division of The Florida Center for Early Childhood
Shaun has taught parenting courses since April 2002 including Redirecting Children’s Behavior, Parent Education and Family Stabilization Class, The High Conflict Diversion Program, and Redirecting for a Cooperative Classroom through Life Lessons of Manasota, LLC. After 21 years on her own, she continues her mission of empowering children by educating parents across the country through The Florida Center Training Institute. She received a Bachelor of Science in Business-Marketing from Florida Southern College, parenting certifications (including Train the Trainer) from the Network of Children and Families, now known as the “Academy of Parent Education and Coaching”, and Parent Coaching certifications.
Shaun is pleased to offer the Life Lesson: Post-Separation Proactive Parenting course through The Florida Center Training Institute.
Presented By Ms. Shaun Hoyle, B.S., CPE
Director of Training
Lección de Vida: Crianza Proactiva Post-Separación curso está abierto y acepta nuevos padres semanalmente.
Nueva Ofrecimiento del Cursos Para Padres en Español a Partir de Agosto de 2025
Este curso apoya a padres que han decidido terminar su relación y experimentan conflictos que afectan directa o indirectamente a sus hijos. Con más de doce años de experiencia ayudando a familias, Shaun Hoyle continúa guiando a padres con altos niveles de conflicto a través de este programa transformador.
El curso enseña a los participantes cómo pasar de una crianza conflictiva a una crianza paralela y, cuando sea posible, a una crianza compartida saludable. Muchos padres descubren que la crianza paralela aporta mayor paz a sus familias y less ayuda a desarrollar resiliencia, tanto para ellos mismos como para sus hijos.
Nos complace anunciar que Mayra Cestero, M.A., se unirá a nuestro equipo y comenzará a ofrecer este curso en español, con nuevas incorporaciones a partir del 14 de julio de 2025 y la primera clase a partir del 12 de agosto de 2025.
Inscríbete hoy mismo para brindar paz y resiliencia a tu familia.
Un curso en línea EN VIVO y continuo con doce sesiones semanales de dos horas (una vez por semana).
Cuando ambos padres asisten al curso, asisten a clases separadas.
Las clases (en inglés) están disponibles los martes, miércoles y jueves de 6:00 a 8:00 p.m. (hora del este).
Las clases (en español) están disponibles los martes y jueves de 6:00 a 8:00 p.m. a partir del 4 de agosto.
Las inscripciones comienzan el 14 de julio de 2025.
No es necesario que ambos padres asistan para lograr la paz familiar.
El costo de la sesión de una hora es de $84.00 y cada una de las 12 sesiones de dos horas es de $48.00.
Se pueden realizar pagos parciales ($48) semanales.
Total: $660.00
Complete el formulario de registro para solicitar la inscripción. Nos pondremos en contacto con los padres para programar una sesión de inscripción. Esta sesión debe completarse antes de la primera sesión. Se priorizará la hora y el día según laprimera llamada cuando ambos padres sean referidos o por orden judicial.
Todos los servicios se ofrecen de forma voluntaria o por orden judicial. Envíe la documentación de la orden judicial o referido
a: Training@TheFloridaCenter.org.
El instructor proporciona:
Un Certificado de Inscripción que se entrega al padre/madre que completa la sesión de inscripción de una hora, firma la documentación de admisión inscripción, y paga la misma.
El Certificado de Asistencia/Finalización se entrega después de doce sesiones de dos horas, la admisión, el pago completo y otros acuerdos del programa que se abordan durante la sesión.

Mayra Cestero, B.A., M.A.
Bacihillerato en Psicología; Maestría en Consejería de Salud Mental
Mayra dirigió un Programa de Intervención para Agresores desde 2000 hasta 2013. Obtuvo su certificación como educadora de padres, coach, y capacitadora de la Academia de Educación y Coaching para Padres (anteriormente la Red Internacional de Niños y Familias). Mayra ha impartido cursos de crianza, incluyendo el programa de Redirección del Comportamiento Infantil, la Clase de Educación para Padres y Estabilización Familiar, y el Programa de Desviación de Conflictos Altos.
Con una amplia experiencia trabajando con familias, se especializa en fomentar relaciones saludables y dinámicas familiares positivas. Sus programas han servido a muchas familias, ayudando a los padres a desarrollar estrategias de disciplina efectivas, guiando a los padres divorciados a través de los desafíos de la coparentalidad y apoyando a las personas en la ruptura de ciclos de abuso. Ella cree que el cambio duradero surge cuando los clientes están equipados con herramientas prácticas, apoyo compasivo, y una comprensión de los patrones emocionales subyacentes.
Mayra se complace en ofrecer el curso de Lecciones de Vida: Crianza Proactiva Post-Separación en español a través del Instituto de Capacitación del Centro de Florida.
Mayra Cestero, M.A.
Bachelor in Psychology; Master’s in Mental Health Counseling
Mayra directed a Batterer’s Intervention Program from 2000 to 2013. She obtained her certification as a parent educator, coach, and trainer from the Academy of Parenting Education and Coaching (formerly the International Network of Children and Families). Mayra has taught parenting courses, including Redirecting Children’s Behavior, Parent Education and Family Stabilization Class, The High Conflict Diversion Program.
With extensive experience working with families, she specializes in fostering healthy relationships and positive family dynamics. Her programs have served many families, helping parents develop effective discipline strategies, guiding divorced parents through co-parenting challenges, and supporting individuals in breaking cycles of abuse. She believes that lasting change emerges when clients are equipped with practical tools, compassionate support, and an understanding of underlying emotional patterns.
Mayra is pleased to offer the Life Lesson: Post-Separation Proactive Parenting course in Spanish through The Florida Center Training Institute.

Recording of Motivational Interviewing Essentials for Professionals Training
2026-03-31 12:00 - 2026-12-31 23:59
This is a Zoom recording of the training “Motivational Interviewing Essentials for Professionals”
Cost: $49.00
Description:
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based, client-centered approach designed to strengthen motivation for change. This interactive training introduces professionals to the foundational principles and practical skills of MI, equipping participants with tools to foster meaningful, goal-oriented conversations across a variety of settings. Participants will explore the core spirit and principles of Motivational Interviewing, including partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation. The training provides a structured overview of OARS—Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summaries—and examines how these core communication skills enhance engagement and reduce resistance. In addition, participants will learn the technique of developing discrepancy to help individuals explore the gap between their current behaviors and personal values or goals. Through guided instruction, attendees will demonstrate the use of OARS skills and begin integrating MI-consistent strategies into their professional practice. This training is ideal for healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals, educators, social service providers, leaders, and other professionals seeking to strengthen their conversational skills and support sustainable behavior change.
Learning Objectives:

Define the core principles and spirit of Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Discuss the components of OARS
Identify the technique of developing discrepancies
Demonstrate the use of OARS skills in structured practice scenarios

This training is designed for professionals, wherever you may reside. Feel free to share with fellow colleagues, and professionals. Together we are better!
Presenter:
Dr. Maria Hand, Certified Child Welfare Trainer
Dr. Maria Hand, a Doctor of Criminal Justice with a specialization in Education from Saint Leo University, brings over 13 years of child welfare experience and seven years as a trainer for child welfare and mental health professionals. She currently serves as Case Manager Supervisor with the Florida Center for Early Childhood, providing leadership and support to staff serving vulnerable children and families. A Certified Child Welfare Trainer, Maria delivers engaging, evidence-informed trainings that emphasize trauma-informed care, ethical practice, skill development, and practical strategies to support children, families, and professionals in real-world settings.

Understanding PANS/PANDAS - What is it and What do I do?
2026-04-01 11:00 - 12:00
This is a Live Virtual Zoom webinar
Wednesday, April 1, 202611:00am-12:00pm EST / 10-11:00am CST / 9-10:00am MST / 8-9:00am PST
$10 – 1 CEs for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW through Florida CEBrokers.Florida Certification Board recognizes this training for continuing education in the areas of mental health and child welfare.
Cost: $49.00
Florida’s in our name — but our support is global.We connect caregivers and professionals around the world with knowledge, training, and community.Join us. Wherever you are, we’re with you.
Description:This talk will explain Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS). These conditions are often overlooked or misinterpreted as the symptoms may appear suddenly and be confusing or difficult to describe. Participants will build a clear understanding of how PANS and PANDAS are defined, learn to recognize key warning signs, explore the different ways these conditions may present, and develop insight into when further evaluation and treatment may be needed. Early identification plays a necessary role in making sure children receive timely and appropriate care and support.
Learning Objectives:

Define Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS).
Recognize key warning signs of PANS and PANDAS.
Describe the various clinical presentations of PANS and PANDAS.
Determine when further evaluation or treatment is warranted for children with PANS or PANDAS.

Presenters:
Isabel (Izzy) Brahm, LMHC, NCCIsabel (Izzy) Brahm (formerly Devorkin) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Izzy received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse, and continued her education at Mount Mary University where she earned a Master’s in Clinical Mental health Counseling. Izzy completed her hours toward licensure under the supervision of the practice owner, Dr. Gibson.
Izzy completed her internship experience with Children’s Wisconsin, where she worked with children and their parents utilizing a variety of interventions such as Play Therapy, TheraPlay, and Child Parent Psychotherapy. There Izzy gained extensive experience with younger children ages 2-8. Izzy also gained experience understanding treatment needs through a trauma lens.
Izzy is passionate about supporting children, teens, and parents, with a strong focus on evidence-based therapies to help them navigate challenges and build lasting resilience. She believes in meeting each individual and family where they are, recognizing their unique strengths and needs while providing personalized, compassionate care. Izzy prioritizes building strong, trusting relationships with every client who walks into her office, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered.
With experience using trauma-informed and strength-based approaches, Izzy has worked with children with PTSD, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. She has provided one-on-one support to a child with Autism on daily living skills, worked closely with at-risk teens, and gained hands-on experience as a teaching assistant in a child care center.
Izzy has completed training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and treating school refusal. In November 2024, she completed the International OCD Foundation Pediatric Behavior Therapy Training Institute Training, focusing on Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to effectively treat children with OCD and related disorders, including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). Additionally, she completed TLC’s Virtual Professional Training Institute on treating BFRBs and is trained to provide SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a therapy for child anxiety and/or OCD that works with parents only. Izzy and Dr Gibson co-created Mighty Minds, an OCD camp for kids and teens, which Izzy now directs each summer.Izzy is a certified Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) therapist. Izzy is also certified in PCIT Adapted for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM). Izzy serves as the site supervisor for undergraduate interns.
Katherine F. Gibson, Psy.D., ABPPDr. Kate Gibson started her mental health career in Sarasota, Florida in 1998 at the Coastal Recovery Center Crisis Stabilization Unit followed by the Coastal Recovery Center Juvenile Assessment Center before pursuing her graduate education. Dr. Gibson received her Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego, CA in 2008. Prior to that Dr. Gibson earned a Master of Arts degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, NY. Dr. Gibson is Board Certified in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology, and is a National Register Health Service Psychologist.
Dr. Gibson provides therapy to children, teens and families with a supportive, goal oriented, and cognitive behavioral (CBT) focus. Dr. Gibson is experienced at treating anxiety disorders, OCD and related disorders, trauma, mood disorders, attention difficulties, impulsivity, and other behavioral problems in children. In 2016 Dr. Gibson completed the International OCD Foundation Pediatric Behavior Therapy Training Institute Training on using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to effectively treat children with OCD and related disorders such as Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) like trichotillomania and excoriation disorder. Dr. Gibson is also trained to provide SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a therapy for child anxiety and/or OCD that works with parents only.
Dr. Gibson is certified by PCIT International as a Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Therapist and Regional Trainer (able to train clinicians in Florida to become PCIT therapists or Within Agency Trainers). Dr. Gibson is certified by Kurtz Psychology Consulting as a Therapist and Within Agency Trainer for PCIT adapted for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM). Dr. Gibson is first author of “Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Adapted for Older Children: A Research Development Manual.” Dr. Gibson is rostered to provide the adaptation “PCIT with Toddlers” as well.
Dr. Gibson has additional expertise in the treatment of trauma in children. Dr. Gibson specializes in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is a certified TF-CBT therapist. Dr. Gibson is also trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), an attachment based trauma focused therapy for young children and their caregivers Dr. Gibson has done research in the areas of trauma resulting from intimate partner violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and trauma program evaluation.
Dr. Gibson Co-Founded the first Parent and Child Psychological Services in New York City in 2010, where she provided therapy, assessment and supervision before relocating to Florida and opening Parent and Child Psychological Services in Sarasota in 2014. In New York Dr. Gibson co-founded a women’s health and wellness private practitioner networking group. Dr. Gibson worked with Unleashed, an after school leadership program for middle school girls in New York City that involved them in animal rescue. In addition to running Parent and Child Psychological Services of Sarasota, Dr. Gibson was the Training Director at Kurtz Psychology Consulting from 2019 to 2022. In that role Dr. Gibson coordinated training of undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate trainees in PCIT, PCIT-SM and CBT. Dr. Gibson was also co-director of the Kurtz Psychology MMK SM camp. Dr. Gibson created a 1-day intensive for children with SM focused on parent coaching in a simulated village called Lifetown in Livingston, NJ and implemented the intensive at Kurtz Psychology and Caring Cove. Dr. Gibson worked at Caring Cove in Chatham, NJ from 2022-2023 where she co-directed the first MMK New Jersey assisting the program with adopting the SM Intensive Group Behavioral Treatment camp model from Kurtz Psychology. Dr. Gibson brought MMK to this practice in Sarasota in the Summer of 2023. Dr Gibson assisted in the creation and development of Mighty Minds- OCD camp that will launched in June 2024.
​Dr. Gibson completed American Psychological Association (APA) accredited clinical training at Astor Services for Children and Families, a non-profit outpatient community mental health center in the Bronx, NY where she worked in both outpatient and day treatment settings. Dr. Gibson went on to be the Clinical Supervisor at one of Astor’s outpatient clinics. Dr. Gibson also completed clinical training at two trauma specialty clinics: The Chadwick Center for Children and Families in San Diego, CA (treating children and parents of children who had been exposed to trauma using the Trauma Assessment Pathway (TAP)), and Safe Horizon Counseling Center in Brooklyn, NY.
​Dr. Gibson is passionate about providing and training others to provide high quality care. Dr Gibson provides training, consultation and supervision on the implementation of Evidence Based Treatments for children and adolescents.

This training may help prepare you for competencies related to the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health Endorsement. (For those outside Florida, check your state’s requirements).

ZOOM RECORDING - Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) from Birth to Age 5
2026-04-01 12:00 - 2026-12-31 14:00
This is a special opportunity to view the recording at your convenience.
Cost: $39.
Description:
This training introduces the impact of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) on children from birth through age five. Participants will gain a broad understanding of how prenatal alcohol exposure can affect brain development, physical health, and early learning. The session highlights early signs and challenges while offering practical approaches to support children and families in everyday settings.
We welcome professionals and caregivers from around the world to join us! Feel free to share with fellow colleagues, family, friends, and professionals. Together we are better!
Learning Objectives:

Identify the key characteristics and developmental challenges associated with FASD in children from birth to age five.
Recognize early signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of FASD in young children.
Apply supportive strategies and interventions that promote healthy growth, learning, and family well-being in children living with FASD.

Presenter:
Kathryn Shea, LCSW, FASD United Board Member
Kathryn has over 40 years of experience working with children with serious emotional and behavioral disorders and fetal alcohol and drug effects. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She served as the President and CEO of the Florida Center for Early Childhood in Sarasota, Florida for 12 years. Kathryn is a past president of the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health and has been very involved in developing and expanding Florida’s Early Childhood Court Initiative. Ms. Shea currently serves on the board of FASD United (formerly NOFAS) and is an independent consultant at the local, state, and national levels. Kathryn has received numerous awards for her work in infant mental health, FASD, and child advocacy.

Literacy with a Purpose with Dr. John Hutton, MD MS FAAP
2026-04-06 11:00 - 2026-05-11 12:00
FREE Live Interactive Online SHORT Presentations offered on Zoom
10 session series on Mondays as follows:
Feb 9th – 11-11:30am EST: Bedtime Baby, Safe and SoundMarch 2 – 11-11:30am EST: Calm Baby GentlyMarch 9 – 11-11:30am EST: SHARE/STEP approach / COMPARTIR in SpanishMarch 16 – 11-12pm EST: DR Books seriesMarch 23 – 11-12pm EST: Billie the Brain Learns to ReadApril 6 – 11-12pm EST: Baby UnpluggedApril 13 – 11-11:30am EST: Baby BookwormApril 20 – 11-11:30am EST: Sherm the Germ Goes to School, Sherm the GermApril 27 – 11-12pm EST: The Reading HouseMay 4 – 11-12pm EST: The Number Farm
Free 10-Day Learning Series with Dr. John S. Hutton, MD MS FAAP
Various Mondays | either 11:00–11:30 AM ET or 11:00-12 PM ET (adjust to your time zone)| No Charge
Join us for a powerful, free 10-day learning series led by Dr. John S. Hutton, nationally recognized pediatrician, researcher, author, and literacy advocate. This concise, engaging series is designed for individuals who want practical, science-backed insights into early brain development, literacy, and the impact of digital media on young children.
Dr. Hutton is a pediatrician and researcher at UT Southwestern and Children’s Health (Dallas, TX) and former Director of the Reading and Literacy Discovery Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. He is also the founder of blue manatee press and the Blue Manatee Literacy Project, and spent nearly 20 years owning the beloved Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore.
Known globally as “Dr. John,” he is the first researcher to document links between the home reading environment, screen-based media, and brain structure and function prior to kindergarten using MRI. His work has reshaped how families, clinicians, and educators think about early literacy, language development, and human connection. His children’s health-literacy book series—including Baby Unplugged and Love Baby Healthy—has reached millions of families worldwide and outperformed standard guidance in clinical trials.
Throughout this series, Dr. Hutton shares accessible research, real-world applications, and inspiring insights focused on building strong brains, healthy habits, and meaningful family connections—across all backgrounds.
Session Time (Mondays) (either 30 or 60 minute sessions):

11:00 – 11:30 AM/12:00 PM Eastern (ET)
10:00 – 10:30/11:00 AM Central (CT)
9:00 – 9:30/10:00 AM Mountain (MT)
8:00 – 8:30/9:00 AM Pacific (PT)

Open to individuals across the U.S. and beyond.
Free to attend. Registration includes choosing the session you wish to attend. Note that they are various Mondays, and mark your calendar appropriately. The Zoom link will show every Monday due to their formatting, however, it will be as noted above, and in the confirmation email.
This is a unique opportunity to learn directly from a global leader at the intersection of pediatric health, literacy, and early brain development—in just 30-60 minutes a week. Each session will include a question & answer period.

Dr. John Hutton, MD MS FAAP
Dr. John S. Hutton is a pediatrician and researcher at UT Southwestern and Children’s Health, Dallas, TX. He is also former Director of the Reading and Literacy Discovery Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. He owned blue manatee children’s bookstore for almost 20 years, then donated via a “Golden Ticket” in 2019 to create the non-profit Blue Manatee Literacy Project. He is also the founder of blue manatee press, which originated to support a community advocacy project during his pediatric residency training.
“Dr. John’s” research involves exploring the effect of the home reading environment and screen-based media on early brain development using MRI, and has been the first in the world to document relationships with brain structure and function prior to kindergarten. He is also a pioneer in developing children’s books for pediatric health literacy promotion and early literacy screening (The Reading House), several distributed via statewide infant health campaigns, benefiting non-profit groups, and found superior to usual guidance in clinical trials. His goal is to improve the general and health literacy of families from all backgrounds, not just because it’s lovely and wonderful, but because it builds brains and bonds.
Dr. John is passionate about better understanding the rising influence of digital media on young children, and the importance of a solid foundation in language, human connection and creative play. His health-themed series Baby Unplugged and Love Baby Healthy have been distributed to millions of families worldwide. He has won numerous awards for his research and writing, lectures widely across the US, and attended writing workshops in Iowa City and Squaw Valley, CA.
He lives with his family in Dallas, Texas and visits his grownup children and grandson in Cincinnati and other locales

Prácticas Somáticas para Niños que Han Experimentado Trauma
2026-04-30 13:00 - 14:30
Jueves 30 Abril 2026 1:00pm , 1-2:3pm hora del este / 12-1:30pm CST / 11-12:30pm MST / 10-11:30am PST
El costo de la capacitación es de $39 e incluye 1.5 créditos de educación continua, aprobados por la Junta de Florida para LCSW, LMFT, LMHC y trabajadores sociales con certificación de maestro a través de CE Brokers.
Cost: $39.00
Descripción de la formación
Prácticas somáticas para niños que han experimentado trauma es un taller diseñado para explorar técnicas somáticas basadas en evidencia que apoyan la regulación emocional y fisiológica en niños. A través de este espacio formativo, los participantes aprenderán estrategias prácticas para ayudar a los niños a reconectarse con su cuerpo, fortalecer su sensación de seguridad y desarrollar habilidades de autorregulación. Este taller está dirigido a terapeutas, profesionales de la salud mental y a cualquier persona interesada en adquirir herramientas efectivas y sensibles al trauma para el trabajo con la infancia.
Objetivos de aprendizaje::

Comprender los fundamentos de las prácticas somáticas en el tratamiento del trauma infantil.
Aprender técnicas específicas para apoyar la regulación emocional y del sistema nervioso en niños.
Desarrollar estrategias prácticas que promuevan seguridad, conexión y resiliencia.
Integrar intervenciones somáticas dentro del trabajo clínico y psicoeducativo.

Presentadora:
Juliana Zamudio-Bayer, MA, LMHC, Terapeuta de salud mental escolar
Juliana es trabajadora social con experiencia desde 2018, dedicada a apoyar a niños y familias mediante un enfoque holístico e informado sobre el trauma. Su carrera comenzó en Australia, donde trabajó estrechamente con comunidades aborígenes para conectar las necesidades culturales con el sistema de protección infantil, garantizando así la seguridad de los niños en sus hogares. También cuenta con experiencia en el sistema judicial, enfocándose en la interrupción de ciclos de encarcelamiento mediante prácticas de justicia restaurativa. Actualmente, brinda terapia de salud mental a niños en The Florida Center, especializándose en modelos de atención para trauma, somáticos y basados ​​en el apego. Originaria de Colombia, ha vivido en cuatro países, una trayectoria que le ha brindado una perspectiva diversa y enriquecedora sobre las personas, la cultura y la vida.
