For social workers, difficult conversations are part of a broad landscape of interactions necessary to achieve the best outcomes for children, youth and families. The updated training “Advanced Guidelines for Difficult Conversations” will give you the tools to feel prepared to manage these exchanges effectively and with respect.
By definition difficult conversations bring together opposing opinions and high stakes, with the potential for conflict and negative emotional reactions. Though challenging, these interactions are essential to working through problems and finding solutions, something at the core of carrying out effective social work practice. They are part of communicating well with families, and can also surface in professional environments.
This course will begin by taking you through a self-assessment of your own comfort level, and help you understand your own emotions and how to maintain objectivity. You will then engage in discussions around how to develop a goal or mutual purpose for these conversations, considering what all parties want to achieve. You also will talk about how to develop a safe space for having these conversations, a vital element in creating open dialogue. You will break into small groups with other participants to work through scenarios with all the skills you have just learned.
At the close of the training, you will know how to create mutual purpose and ensure safety when having difficult conversations as you move forward. This will give you the tools to develop conversation goals to strategize case planning for families you work with.
DCYF staff can register for Advanced Guidelines for Difficult Conversations (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Apr 28, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 24, 2022 10:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
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Jun 2, 2022 1:00PM to 5:00PM
- Jun 3, 2022 10:00AM to 12:00PM
In this workshop supervisors and managers will develop their skills for engaging across culture when tension exists. Participants will explore Intent vs. Impact, how implicit bias can effect their decision making in determining outcomes and unpack dynamics between employees when conflict exists. Participants will learn how best to approach tense situations through role playing, video, and small and large group discussion.
Objectives. Participants will…
- Learn strategies for engaging when they commit, witness or experience a microaggression;
- Explore strategies for addressing conflict that occurs between their staff;
- Improve their ability to have courageous conversations.
This course is presented by Dr. Caprice Hollins. Dr. Hollins is the co-founder of Cultures Connecting. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology with an emphasis in multicultural and community psychology in 1998. She became licensed in Washington State in 2000 and has over 20 years of experience studying and working with ethnically diverse populations. She has over 14 years of experience teaching graduate courses, working with historically marginalized populations, researching, studying, and facilitating race related conversations. Her experience includes opening and directing the Department of Equity & Race Relations for Seattle Public Schools, developing and implementing district-wide and school-based trainings, while utilizing her background in psychology to assist district leaders and staff, institutionalize change to promote equity and social justice. She also currently works as a part-time core faculty in the department of counseling at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology.
CEU eligible: 6 credits
DCYF staff can register for Advanced Microaggressions for Supervisors: Guiding Staff through Cross Cultural Conflict through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members are unfortunately unable to register for this course. If you have any questions, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Apr 26, 2022 9:00AM to 3:30PM
The most frequent allegation of child maltreatment is neglect. Some families are referred to the department numerous times with little change in family functioning. In this course, participants will learn how to assess for chronic neglect, its effects on children and appropriate interventions.
DCYF staff can register for Appropriate Interventions for Chronic Neglect through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 5, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 26, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
In this training, you’ll consider how to best explain the safety threat that’s keeping a child in out-of-home care and think about how this threat impacts child safety during family time. You’ll practice applying the threshold questions to decisions about family time and articulating to the court why you are recommending a specific level of supervision, even when the child needs to remain out of the home. You will also learn to address areas of personal and institutional bias and how this appears in the language used to shape views of child safety. Finally, you’ll consider how safety threats can be mitigated when parents progress and children are able to return home, including how transition plans can support everyone’s long term success.
DCYF staff can register for Assessing Safety Beyond Removal: Family Time and Conditions for Return Home through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via AllianceSupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 10, 2022 9:00AM to 3:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 19, 2022 9:00AM to 3:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 16, 2022 9:00AM to 3:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 27, 2022 9:00AM to 3:00PM
This eLearning primarily features a video of a popular Child Protection Medical Consultation (MedCon) presentation for Regional Core Training. The video showcases two respected and well-known child abuse pediatricians, Dr. Rebecca Wiester and Dr. Joyce Gilbert. Dr. Wiester and Dr. Gilbert discuss important aspects of Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and Neglect within the context of their expertise as child protection medial consultants.
Viewers are walked through recognizing sentinel injuries; understanding Abusive Head Trauma and its connection to the Period of PURPLE Crying; identifying when to seek medical consultation, how to submit a referral, and what information to provide; and how to locate important county protocols and policy resources online. Viewers will also be provided with a helpful Notes Worksheet, which will guide them through capturing important information needed in practice, and to pass the quiz at the end. This eLearning also provides a Facilitator Guide and can be viewed either individually, or facilitated for a small group viewing.
DCYF staff can register for Child Protection Medical Consultation (MedCon) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
This is a webinar version of the classroom and will cover the same content. The two different CPS pathways, Family Assessment Response (FAR) and Investigations will be discussed. This training includes learning modules on: Interviewing members of a household to assess safety, including children, parents and Subjects; Collateral information gathering; Protocols when working with Law Enforcement (LE); Working with Child Protection Medical Consultant Network (MEDCON) and local medical providers; Utilizing the Child Safety Framework; completing the Investigative Assessment (IA) & the Family Assessment Response Family Assessment (FARFA); Following Indian Child Welfare Act policies (ICWA); and other policy & legal requirements. Also covered in this webinar training will be requirements for reasonable efforts to prevent placement, addressing Domestic Violence, CSEC, Infant Child Safety; and more. Participants will be asked to review several examples of CPS intakes and the information in the course will be presented through using these case examples. On the last day, there will be a panel made up of Department of Children, Youth, and Families Investigative and FAR staff and a Parent Ally. This course is required for all first year CPS Case Workers as well as caseworkers and supervisors transferring to a CPS position who have not attended the CPS track within the past two years.
DCYF staff can register for Child Protective Services In-Service (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
-
Apr 25, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Apr 26, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Apr 27, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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May 3, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- May 4, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- May 5, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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Jun 1, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 2, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 3, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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Jun 7, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 9, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 10, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
Coaching for Ad Hoc NeedsCourse Info
Coaching sessions are utilized to enhance a learner’s specific skill attainment in an identified area of practice. Coaching sessions are provided to Children’s Administration workforce to help workers attain specific skills pertinent to their daily work/practice in child welfare. Identified goals are created and progress towards those goals is measured by both the learner and the coach after each session.
Ad Hoc field based coaching topics include:
Tasks such as AFCARS, redaction, case closure, and entering ICWA/NAIR information into FamLink, filing of documentation into case files.
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
Coaching for AssessmentsCourse Info
Coaching sessions are utilized to enhance a learner’s specific skill attainment in an identified area of practice. Coaching sessions are provided to Department of Children, Youth, and Families workforce to help workers attain specific skills pertinent to their daily work/practice in child welfare. Identified goals are created and progress towards those goals is measured by both the learner and the coach after each session.
Assessments (Functionality and Content) field based coaching topics include:
Content and FamLink functionality in completing the Investigative Assessment (IA), Family Assessment Response Family Assessment (FARFA) and Comprehensive Family Evaluation (CFE); understanding the use of the gathering questions to assess for child safety; identifying and utilizing protective factors and protective capacities for safety and case planning; understanding timeframes for each assessment in the different program areas; service referrals and the use of EBP’s.
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
Coaching sessions are utilized to enhance a learner’s specific skill attainment in an identified area of practice. Coaching sessions are provided to Department of Children, Youth, and Families workforce to help workers attain specific skills pertinent to their daily work/practice in child welfare. Identified goals are created and progress towards those goals is measured by both the learner and the coach after each session.
Case Organization and Prioritization field based coaching topics include:
How to prioritize the daily work, including: using outlook, desk calendars, and reminders; prioritization of caseload activities, assessments and due dates for different programs; reassessing safety and updating safety assessments at pivotal points in the case.
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
Coaching sessions are utilized to enhance a learner’s specific skill attainment in an identified area of practice. Coaching sessions are provided to the Department of Children, Youth and Family's workforce to help workers attain specific skills pertinent to their daily work/practice in child welfare. Identified goals are created and progress towards those goals is measured by both the learner and the coach after each session.
Assessing for Child Safety throughout the Life of the Case field based coaching topics include:
Assessing for present danger/impending danger; applying the Child Safety Framework; understanding the 17 safety threats and how to plan for present danger with protective action plans and safety plans in cases with identified impending danger; how to make appropriate collateral contacts; interviewing of children, parents/caregivers and all adults in the home; using medical consultation (Med-Cons); scheduling and preparing for appropriate case staffings; using Structured Decision Making (SDM) to help assess risk in cases and reassessing child safety throughout the life of the case.
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
Coaching sessions are an opportunity for participants to receive training and support on critical topics that is flexible enough to respond to their current needs. Coaching sessions can involve one or several workers, and may be delivered in person, on the phone or by other real time collaboration (face-time, etc). Preferably, they allow material to be understood within a context of an actual case, and completion of current work.
This coaching session opportunity for staff will aim at compliance with ICWA, give recommendations for working with Tribes and Tribal families, revisit the Federal Act, State ICW codes and current policies/procedures when ICWA applies or is being considered.
This session will revisit current practices in Department of Children, Youth, and Families, specialized units and steps available for staff, including tailored topics such as:
- Initial Intake (ICW Procedures at initial contact)
- Tribal/State Agreements
- Inquiry and Verification of Child’s Indian Status
- Disclosure of Confidential Records/Information to Tribes
- Child Protective Services for Indian Children
- Casework Activities for Court Proceedings – forms Legal Notice, FamLink Response from NAIR eLearning, Monthly Progress report
- Indian Child Placement Preferences and Relative Search
- Adoption
- Interstate Compact on the Placement of Indian Children
- Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committees
- Payments for Services for Children in Tribal Care or Custody
- Casework Services for Children and Families of Non-Federally Recognized Tribes and Canadian First Nations
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
In this coaching session you will get individual support from a coach as you apply what you learned during the NCAST/PCI Feeding Scales Certification training. This application includes observing a feeding interaction and gathering pertinent information about the parent-child dyad; assessment of parent-child interactions; , scoring the Feeding Scale; and intervening with parents and young children. You will get direct feedback as you learn to apply the skills and knowledge to your everyday interactions with children and families inside and outside the scope of the Feeding Scales assessment.
To request coaching, please email the Regional Education and Training Administrator in your regions. Once a request has been made and training certification verified, an Alliance Coach will contact you for scheduling:
Region 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
Region 5 and 6 - Christine Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
In this coaching session you will get individual support from a coach as you apply what you learned during the NCAST/PCI Teaching Scales Certification training. This application includes observing a teaching interaction and gathering pertinent information about the parent-child dyad; assessment of parent-child interactions; scoring the Teaching Scale; and recommending service interventions for parents and young children. You will get direct feedback as you learn to apply the skills and knowledge to your everyday interactions with children and families inside and outside the scope of the Teaching Scales assessment.
To request coaching, please email the Regional Education and Training Administrator in your regions. Once a request has been made and training certification verified, an Alliance Coach will contact you for scheduling:
Region 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
Region 5 and 6 - Christine Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
Coaching for PermanencyCourse Info
Coaching sessions are utilized to enhance a learner’s specific skill attainment in an identified area of practice. Coaching sessions are provided to Department of Children, Youth, and Families workforce to help workers attain specific skills pertinent to their daily work/practice in child welfare. Identified goals are created and progress towards those goals is measured by both the learner and the coach after each session.
Permanency (Timeline/Case Planning /Case Management) field based coaching topics include:
Permanency timelines; permanency from day one; engaging with families to co-create case plans; setting safety objectives; measuring progress versus compliance in cases; transition planning for children; knowing when to file for Termination of Parental Rights (TPR); understanding the court process and when to change permanency plans; understanding the adoption process; understanding parent/child visitation plans (supervised, monitored, etc.); understanding reasonable efforts versus active efforts for ICWA cases.
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
Coaching for SupervisorsCourse Info
Coaching for Supervisors provides a one-on-one professional development opportunity and is an essential element in supporting the daily work supervisors do with their units and staff. Sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute intervals and can cover:
- Observation and feedback on monthly supervisory case reviews
- Use of Supervisor Review Tool in FamLink
- Documentation / Assessment review and approvals
- Observation and feedback on skills used to engage with staff
- Organization and Prioritization of work
Coaching sessions can be scheduled in 30 minute increments, depending on the topic being covered. Coaches are available to provide individual sessions or small group sessions (such as at unit meetings). Once a request is made, the Alliance Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) will assign a coach and scheduling will occur between the coach, the learner and the Supervisor/AA. Written feedback on each session will be provided by the coach to the learner and supervisor following the coaching session and the coaching session will be entered into the worker's training record to reflect the completed coaching.
Please direct all questions and requests to the Regional Education and Training Administrator (RETA) via the email addresses below:
- Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 - Patty Erdman, pe3@uw.edu
- Regions 5 and 6 - Chris Kerns, kernsc9@uw.edu
This course provides information on the service contract process and the role of Social Workers, Fiduciaries, Program Managers, and Contract Managers. Participants will learn how to identify what types of services do and do not require contracts, how to determine if a contract is already in place, how to access contracted providers appropriately, how CA Contract Managers develop contracts and the Social Worker’s role in the process, as well as the process for paying for contracted services through FamLink.
DCYF staff can register for Contract for Services: Part 1 – Understanding the CA Contract Process (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Participants will learn about the importance of contract monitoring, the Contract Monitoring Team, the purpose of a Compliance Agreement, and what to do if there are concerns about a contractor’s performance.
DCYF staff can register for Contract for Services: Part 2 – Contract Monitoring (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
For years society has encouraged colorblind ideology without taking into consideration the impact this has on People of Color. Through video, interactive activities and discussion of the research, participants are challenged to examine implicit bias, stereotype threat and its effect on cross cultural relationships and ethnic/racial identity development. As a result, participants deepen their appreciation of challenges facing People of Color, grow in self-awareness and learn ways to mitigate the impact.
Objectives:
Participants Will…
- Engage in courageous conversations;
- Deepen their understanding of implicit bias and stereotype threat;
- Learn strategies to mitigate the impact of implicit bias.
This training is presented by Cultures Connecting, LLC. Cultures Connecting, LLC was founded in 2008, providing culturally relevant professional development, keynote addresses, consulting and coaching services to organizations seeking to improve their staffs’ ability to effectively work with diverse cultures.
Owners, Caprice D. Hollins, Psy.D., and Ilsa M. Govan, M.A., have over 30 years combined experience researching race related topics, designing curriculum, and facilitating culturally relevant professional development workshops.
DCYF staff can register for Cultural Competence: Understanding Implicit Bias and the Impact of Racial Stereotyping through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Apr 28, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
This training is designed for social workers who are serving children placed with Kinship Caregivers, and their supervisors. The class will prepare you to recognize and address the issues that Kinship Caregivers are most likely to confront, and those that often lead to placement disruption or impact child wellbeing. Participants will leave with a host of written resources that may be helpful as they talk with caregivers about their needs and about the child’s needs, and as they guide caregivers in connecting to resources within and outside the department that will decrease stress and increase support for them and their families. Participants will also practice discussing issues of concern with relative caregivers, so that they can be best prepared to have these discussions frequently and successfully with Kinship Caregivers.
DCYF staff can register for Culture of Family: Supporting Kin to Support Kids through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
DCYF Policy Rollout: December 2021Course Info
DCYF rolls out new policies and any updates, revisions or other changes to current policy as needed throughout the year. This eLearning walks you through the following policies, which are effective December 31, 2021:
New Policy
- 4551. Day and Overnight Camp Approval Process
Revised Policies
- 1150. Case Plan
- 2310. CPS Initial Face-to-Face (IFF) Response
- 4122. Case Transfer
- 4420. Monthly Visits with Children or Youth, Parents or Guardians, and Caregivers
- 46100. Monthly Clinical Supervision Case Reviews
- 4430. Courtesy Supervision
This training provides you with specifics on what the policy changes are and why the changes are being made. You will find links to resources that provide context or support your policy compliance. For your continued learning, the training includes the full text of the policy and a way to connect with someone within DCYF if you have questions.
This eLearning is part of a series that will be updated along with policy rollouts.
DCYF staff can register for DCYF Policy Rollout: December 2021 through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
This course is intended for DCYF staff only.
Children and youth in care who identify as LGBTQ+ face challenges that can affect their quality of life far beyond their experiences in the child welfare system. Because of this, it is especially important that Licensing Division Foster Care employees can assess providers’ and caregivers’ ability to provide a welcoming and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ children and youth.
The training first takes you through an exercise that allows you to reflect on possible personal biases that may affect your evaluation of prospective caregivers, children and youth during the licensing process. You will then go through a learning around SOGIE/LGBTQ+ terminology and discuss how to talk to children, youth and providers about LGBTQ+ culture, a critical component of interviewing.
A key component of the course is the focus on being able to review and apply the laws and minimum licensing requirements around assessing a provider’s ability (not just willingness) to care and support children and youth who identify as LGBTQ+, as well as the provider’s level of knowledge pertaining to LGBTQ+ children and youth, and their interest in expanding that knowledge as needed. This learning includes defining welcoming and affirming environments. You will learn characteristics of those spaces, such as open conversations with children and youth, and talk about how to support caregivers in providing positive and affirming surroundings.
Finally, you will dive in for a deep look at nondiscrimination-focused RCWs, WACs, and Policies, Practices and Procedures, and discuss how to apply them in licensing and investigations. You will have an opportunity to build skills formulating and applying questions based on current licensing standards and mandates.
At the close of the training, you will have a personal and professional action plan that outlines what you have studied and the steps you will take to best engage with, learn from and advocate for your clients.
DCYF staff can register for Developing Skills for Licensing Staff Assessing LGBTQ+ Awareness and Support (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Domestic Violence in Child Welfare (webinar)Course Info
Working with families impacted by Domestic Violence can be challenging, nerve wracking, and sometimes inspiring. You may often wish that you had more guidance about how you should approach this work. In this course, you’ll learn more about the policy and legal guidance for child welfare work with families experiencing domestic violence. More importantly, you’ll learn the best practices for this work and get to practice applying these best practices. In Washington we are lucky to have an entire manual outlining these best practices, “The Social Worker’s Practice Guide to Domestic Violence.” This guide will be heavily relied upon in this course and you’ll become familiar with most of its contents. The course aims to build your knowledge and skills across four core areas: universal and periodic screening for domestic violence, conducting a specialized DV assessment, engagement and accountability with DV perpetrators, and case planning in families experiencing DV. In addition, you’ll learn about the different types of protection orders that may exist and the implications of each, as well as the process of domestic violence safety planning with adult DV victims.
DCYF staff can register for Domestic Violence in Child Welfare (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
-
May 5, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
- May 12, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
- May 26, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
- Jun 2, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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Jun 21, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
- Jun 22, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
- Jun 28, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
- Jun 29, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
Drug Testing (eLearning)Course Info
Drug testing practices and their use in child welfare assessment of safety and risk is covered in this course. Participants learn the guidelines for the frequency and duration of testing, practices at drug collection sites, detection of adulterated samples and interpreting drug test results. Participants will know what to test and how to include this in the assessments of parents involved in the child welfare system, focusing on the behavior of parents, and knowing what a drug test can tell us is emphasized.
DCYF staff can register for Drug Testing (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
This course focuses on DCYF Education Policy and Procedures to achieve positive educational outcomes through solid education planning throughout the child's experience in out-of-home care. Caseworkers will understand education case planning and documentation requirements as well as how to engage with schools on enrollment, transportation plans, and potential cost sharing agreements. Information sharing processes and Post-Secondary Education and Training resources are also provided.
***Supervisors: This eLearning may be completed individually or as a group during a unit meeting. If the eLearning is completed as a group, be sure to contact an Alliance coach to input completion of the eLearning training in LMS for all participants.
Supervisors may use the Supervisors Guide to Education Policy and Case Planning eLearning available here to promote discussion after caseworkers have taken the eLearning. (this is an optional activity)
DCYF staff can register for Education Policy and Case Planning (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Social Service Specialists who complete this eLearning will understand how and why to request an exception or extension to a required Initial Face to Face (IFF) meetings with a victim or child related to an intake. They will practice developing documentation that supports their supervisor through the decision-making process, as well as any additional guidance for reasonable efforts to locate these children and their families.
DCYF staff can register for Exceptions and Extensions to the Initial Face to Face (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via AllianceSupport@uw.edu.
These sessions provide participants of the Domestic Violence in Child Welfare in-service training an opportunity to expand their knowledge and work within live cases. Topics of the sessions are identified by the cohort members and learning activities are organized and facilitated by Alliance staff. These sessions will rely on the policy and best practices in "The Social Worker’s Practice Guide to Domestic Violence" for child welfare work with families experiencing domestic violence.
These learning sessions will continue to build across the four core areas from the Domestic Violence in-service: universal and periodic screening for domestic violence; conducting a specialized DV assessment; engagement and accountability with DV perpetrators; and case planning in families experiencing DV.
Completion of the Domestic Violence in Child Welfare in-service course is a pre-requisite for this course.
Tailored topics may include:
- Understanding the child welfare definition of domestic violence
- Identifying and engaging perpetrators of domestic violence to enhance child safety
- Supporting survivors in decision-making
- Assessing lethality and understanding protection orders
- Disclosure of confidential information
- Assessing child and survivor safety when there is intimate relationship violence
- Casework activities for court proceedings
- Documentation
Unit supervisors or staff will schedule directly with a Coach to set up sessions. Completion of the sessions will be entered into the Learning Center after they have occurred.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Facilitated Cohort Learning Sessions To Support ICWA Practice provides former cohorts from RCT and SCT classes that are working on Indian Child Welfare cases to expand their knowledge beyond core training curriculum and gain application within live cases. Topics of the sessions are identified by the cohort members and learning activities are organized and facilitated by Alliance staff. These sessions will review current WA State ICWA practices while providing opportunities to apply critical thinking to the overall complexities of child welfare work.
Tailored topics may include:
- Initial Intake (ICW Procedures at initial contact)
- Tribal/State Agreements
- Inquiry and Verification of Child’s Indian Status
- Disclosure of Confidential Records/Information to Tribes
- Child Protective Services for Indian Children
- Active Efforts
- Casework Activities for Court Proceedings – forms Legal Notice, FamLink Response from NAIR eLearning, Monthly Progress report
- Indian Child Placement Preferences and Relative Search
- Adoption
- Interstate Compact on the Placement of Indian Children
- Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committees
- Casework Services for Children and Families of Non-Federally Recognized Tribes and Canadian First Nations
Request a date for your group by emailing Patricia Erdman at pe3@uw.edu with a subject line of "Facilitated Cohort Learning Sessions To Support ICWA Practice", as well as a list of desired topics and other information. Dates are not set in advance for normal class registration. Sessions can be requested beyond Region 4 by way of a Supervisor or Area Administrator.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Family Preservation Services (eLearning)Course Info
Family Preservation Services, or FPS, is one option social workers have when assessing for the most appropriate in-home service. This interactive eLearning will cover the service components of FPS, what to expect from the FPS provider and what is required of the referring social worker in the delivery of FPS services.
DCYF staff can register for Family Preservation Services (FPS) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Family time is an essential part of supporting a child’s ongoing relationships while they are in out-of-home care. When a parent is incarcerated, there are specific policies and processes that need to be followed to ensure continuation of family time. This training will help you understand from start to finish the process of completing a visitation at a Washington Department of Corrections (DOC) prison, and how to supplement contact in other appropriate ways.
This eLearning will walk you through the myriad requirements and details involved in these types of visitations, in an easy-to-understand way. You will learn how to navigate DOC websites, schedule visitation, and which forms you will need to secure and why. You also will review the requirements and steps to arranging electronic/telephonic contact, which are additional tools you can use to support the connection between parent and child. You will have multiple opportunities throughout to test your knowledge with real-life scenarios.
The course also covers information you will need to prepare a child, the caregiver and the family time supervisor in advance of a visit to an incarcerated parent. This learning includes why it’s important to “debrief” with the child after family time.
At the close, you will get the complete resources you will need going forward, and you will take a final quiz to ensure you have fully grasped all of the information.
DCYF staff can register for Family Time With Incarcerated Parents (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
This 6-hour mandatory course will provide participants with an understanding of substance use and when it affects the safety of children in the family, how to plan for safety with families who have children of all ages (0-18), how to support clients in their treatment programs, and how to measure progress sufficiently to mitigate the safety threats to the children.
DCYF staff can register for Harm Reduction and Safety Planning With Substance Using Families through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 27, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 6, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
Participants will be engaged to consider their own thoughts, beliefs, and biases about mental illness; understand basic definitions associated with parental mental illness and child safety; and identify family assessment strategies that can focus on the intersection between parental mental illness and child safety. Additionally, ideas and tools for drafting effective case plans and objectives to achieve child safety with parental mental illness is a factor will also be discussed. Finally, participants will receive resources for services and interventions that promote the reduction of risk associated with parental mental illness and enhance protective factors for family well-being.
DCYF staff can register for Impacts of Parental Mental Health on Child Safety through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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May 9, 2022 8:30AM to 12:00PM
- May 10, 2022 8:30AM to 12:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 26, 2022 8:30AM to 4:30PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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Jun 13, 2022 8:30AM to 12:00PM
- Jun 14, 2022 8:30AM to 12:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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Jun 27, 2022 8:30AM to 12:00PM
- Jun 30, 2022 8:30AM to 12:00PM
Assessment of every environment in which an infant lives and sleeps, as well as all individuals providing care, is critical to ensuring the safety of this vulnerable population. Emphasis will be placed on developmental needs, attachment, and the infant’s relationships. The focus of this course is to provide instruction around assessment of the infant’s interactions with both caregivers and the environment, identifying parent/caregiver training or support needs, and opportunities for demonstration, practice, and feedback pertaining to meeting the practice and policy requirements for this component of the Infant Safety Education and Intervention.
DCYF staff can register for Infant Safety: Assessing the Infant's Environment (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 13, 2022 9:00AM to 2:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 13, 2022 9:00AM to 3:00PM
The Period of PURPLE Crying will provide social workers with an understanding of the importance of assessing for both prolonged crying in infancy and the caregiver’s ability to manage long periods of crying. Emphasis will be placed on safety in terms of the connection between prolonged crying and child abuse/neglect, as well as completion of the Period of PURPLE Crying Training Certification through dontshake.org (if not previously completed). The focus of this course is to provide instruction around assessment, and opportunities for demonstration, practice, and feedback pertaining to meeting the practice and policy requirements for this component of the Infant Safety Education and Intervention Policy.
DCYF staff can register for Infant Safety: Period of PURPLE Crying (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 20, 2022 1:00PM to 5:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 16, 2022 8:30AM to 12:30PM
Infant Safety: Plan of Safe Care (webinar)Course Info
The Plan of Safe Care is an element of case planning for families with infants born with and affected by substance abuse or withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure, or a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, or born to a dependent youth. The Plan of Safe Care focuses on access to a network of community-based providers and support services and addresses the needs of both the infant and the family/caregiver. The focus of this course is to provide opportunities for demonstration, practice, and feedback pertaining to meeting the practice and policy requirements for this component of the Infant Safety Education and Intervention Policy.
DCYF staff can register for Infant Safety: Plan of Safe Care (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 27, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 22, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
Using objective evidence, recognizing patterns of behavior, considering families’ perspectives, and utilizing collaterals can improve decision-making in child welfare. Skills to ensure incorporation of new information and to identify biases, including confirmation bias, will be examined in this course to improve decision making.
DCYF staff can register for Informing Decisions Through Critical Thinking through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
In this course you will learn about the requirements of the Interstate Compact and Placement of Children (ICPC), including both sending children in foster care to other States, and receiving children in foster care from other States. In addition, you will learn how ICPC applies to ICWA cases. Your role and responsibilities from beginning to end are covered including the home study process, completing quarterly reports, and closing cases. Details about common violations, parent visits, and how to contact the headquarters ICPC team for support and guidance are provided.
DCYF staff can register for Interstate Placements: Fundamentals and Your Role (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
This eLearning covers two main components of service provision in CPS and FVS: the Structured Decision Making Risk Assessment (SDMRA) and the Case Plan. Participants will use a realistic scenario to walk through the SDMRA and a resulting case plan. Participants will learn how to target resources towards those who can benefit most using the SDMRA and then how to develop and monitor an effective case plan that moves the family toward change.
DCYF staff can register for Introduction to Case Planning and the Structured Decision Making Risk Assessment through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via AllianceSupport@uw.edu.
Supervisors, Program Managers, and Quality Practice Specialists need to achieve competency in understanding the child welfare practice as well as in the higher levels of systems management. This course provides Supervisors and Program Managers with an introduction of baseline competencies for middle managers in public child welfare, and opportunities to develop and practice new skills regarding these competencies. Managing self, managing others, managing systems and managing outward are the four main themes integrated throughout this course.
Day 1: Foundations for Managers in Child Welfare
Day 2: Effective Relationships as a Manager
Day 3: Strategies for Effective Organizational Communication
Day 4: Growing and Sustaining Effective Internal and External Teams
Day 5: Essentials for Resource Management
Day 6: Strategic Thinking and Planning Tools for the Manager
Peter Dahlin, MS, is an experienced child welfare worker, supervisor, administrator and educator in the public sector for nearly 30 years. He has provided curriculum development, training, and evaluation services to child welfare, foster care, and family service agencies throughout the country and in Quebec. He has trained extensively throughout Washington and California. His specialty areas include trainer, supervisor, manager and executive development, and he has developed and delivered numerous training programs in these areas. He has created advanced trainings for supervisors and managers, including a required three-year program for Los Angeles County. He teaches the core manager (AA) course in the State of Washington, and developed and delivered part of the Core Supervisor Series in the State of Florida. His curriculum development work and training delivery, including that of “train the trainer” has also included clients such as National CASA and Casey Family Programs. As the former director of the Bay Area Academy, he oversaw an 18-month recruitment & retention study reviewing practices in thirteen counties with an emphasis on succession planning, and he has consulted with San Diego State’s Southern Academy on developing and delivering part of its Executive Development Program. He also provides executive coaching to managers and deputies in San Diego Child Welfare Services.
Comments from previous participants in this training:
"What we do is so difficult we rely on each other. And part of that is building a strong team that all come from the same mission and vision. Some of my folks had been here for a long time and they were on the verge of burnout and I had to think differently about how to look at that. Like what still motivates you to come in? why do you do it? What keeps you coming? That tool [from the AA training] I’ve used, asking them what are their passions and how can I help them get there."
"The team work portion [was the most valuable part of the training]. I had them all do the short version of the disk assessment and it brought up different communication styles and what we can expect in their management group. The most meaningful part of this training is because of the team and the connection they have. It’s the driver of retention in my opinion and I want to work on building teams to retain people."
"There are some trainings where they tell us to go back to our staff and our staff come back and say ‘no we’re not going to do that.’ But we go back and this is real, what he gives us [in this training] we can use."
"The value for me is the value for staff, the budget the grant information shouldn’t be hidden if you disperse that in a good way it will encourage creativity."
"I found it helpful to learn about the relationship with money and funding. The detail was really helpful, because I had a general idea. We always talked about half of our salary was IV-E but that’s not really true, it’s a more nuanced conversation."
"I really enjoyed the activity around staffing the formula around how much staff we should have. I want to go back and look at what the formula looks like for us, I appreciated the discussion around what types of different data we can use and the value of it."
Tribal Member who participated in this training:
"[Learning about the value of] external stakeholders was valuable. We’ve done work in the tribe around [our] vision and mission. But in terms of values, strategic plans in terms of bringing in other stakeholders was valuable information to remember to bring those folks into the discussion."
DCYF staff can register for Leadership Training for Supervisors, Program Managers, and Quality Practice Specialists (based on Area Administrator Core Training) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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May 3, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- May 4, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 2, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 3, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 28, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- Jun 29, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
Collaboration and mentorship are central tenets of leadership, and coaching provides an opportunity to help supervisors identify practice barriers that have direct impact to the children and families you serve. In this course, you will learn how to build coaching capacity into your work supervising staff. At the center of this is the Learner Centered Coaching model, which enhances practice skills and self-efficacy of DCYF supervisors. It aims to reduce trauma response in the child welfare practice environment by highlighting positive regard, cultural humility and a trauma-informed lens.
This training will provide a foundational picture of how to utilize coaching in supervision. The introduction covers identification of behaviors that create a sense of psychological safety for individuals on your team, a must-have for success. The core of the training will highlight the principles of complex skill development in adults, as well as, the Learner Centered Coaching model itself, including the principles, values and behaviors that make up a “coaching stance” and the five steps of learner centered coaching. Throughout the course you will be asked to consider what you might do differently in your ongoing staff development work, and the individual skills you might be using at each step in the coaching process.
The education in this training goes beyond the webinar. Before your training is complete, you will have a chance to apply this information by using handouts and reflection worksheets to consider how you will integrate coaching into your work. You will also submit a coaching plan and begin the coaching process with two of your staff members. And to encourage your long-term professional development, you will be supported after you complete the course, through individualized coaching and resources to help you develop and enhance your coaching skills as you move forward.
DCYF staff can register for Learner Centered Coaching Skills for Supervisors and Area Administrators (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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Apr 11, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
- Apr 18, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
- May 2, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
- May 9, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
- May 23, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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May 6, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
- May 13, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
- May 27, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
- Jun 3, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
- Jun 10, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
Las personas que toman este curso digital aprenderán sobre su rol como denunciadores de abuso por mandato cuando se sospecha abuso o negligencia infantil y los pasos para reportar estas preocupaciones. Este entrenamiento provee información sobre los indicadores que pueden indicar que abuso o negligencia infantil está ocurriendo y las situaciones comunes que en que es necesario llamar a la agencia correspondiente para hacer una denuncia. Las personas tomando este curso también aprenderán a considerar el impacto de los prejuicios culturales cuando se hacen estas denuncias y el problema de disparidad racial representada en el sistema. También este curso explica los requisitos federales para reconocer el linaje de un niño/a con una tribu indígena o su afiliación a una tribu reconocida federalmente. Finalmente, este curso también repasa los pasos para comunicarse con la Administración de Protección Infantil y hacer una denuncia, la información que se necesita, y lo que ocurre una vez que la denuncia ha sido hecha e investigada.
This course is also available in English at https://allianceforchildwelfare.org/content/mandatory-reporter-roles-and-responsibilities-elearning
INSTRUCCIONES DE REGISTRO:
- Haga clic en el botón azul a continuación.
- Cuando aparezca la página del curso, haga clic en el botón “Iniciar” (“Launch”).
Para obtener ayuda con los perfiles o las contraseñas, puede comunicarse con nuestro servicio de asistencia enviando un correo electrónico a alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Mandatory reporters play a key role in ensuring the safety of vulnerable children. These professionals are obligated to report concerns about abuse or neglect, and this eLearning will guide you as mandated reporter through the process of identifying and documenting those concerns.
This training breaks the process down into three parts: Recognize, Record and Report. Through the training, you will understand what indicators of abuse to look for; how to appropriately record and what information to have; and what happens when a report is filed.
You will consider the impact of biases on reporting possible child abuse and neglect, and learn about the problem of racial disproportionality in our state’s child welfare system. The training also covers the federal requirement of identification of Indian heritage and affiliation with federally recognized tribes.
At the conclusion of the training, you will feel confident in understanding your role in keeping children safe.
Este curso también está disponible en español en https://allianceforchildwelfare.org/content/mandatory-reporter-paquete-de-herramientas-para-denunciadores-de-abuso-infantil-por-mandato
DCYF staff can register for Mandatory Reporter Roles and Responsibilities (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
This eLearning covers the correct way to administer, log, store, and dispose of medications. In addition, this eLearning will provide information/protocol to revise agency policies and procedures with current information and best practice.
DCYF staff can register for Medication Management and Administration (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Training provides an overview of successful case planning for children in foster care. Course topics include referring to the mental health services, use of screening tools, characteristics and behavior indicators of developmental and mental health concerns, use psychotropic medications with children in foster care, case management techniques with mental health service providers, understanding the elements and criteria of Evidence-Based and Promising Practices, and matching available EBP’s with specific client needs. This course will also describe key signs, symptoms and impacts of trauma, disrupted attachment, and childhood adversity and ways to incorporate trauma informed care into their day-to-day work.
DCYF staff can register for Mental Health: In-Depth Applications for Child Welfare through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
This in-service level training will teach participants the steps for identifying Indian Children, address practical steps to input information into FamLink, and give CA staff tips on completing Ancestry Charts and submitting referrals to the Native American Inquiry Request (NAIR) unit to fulfill the requirements of the Federal ICWA, State Law and Department of Children, Youth, and Families policies.
DCYF staff can register for NAIR - Creating and Monitoring Your Native American Inquiry Request through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
Caregivers Register Here
- May 16, 2022 9:00AM to 11:00AM
Caregivers Register Here
- Jun 14, 2022 1:30PM to 3:30PM
This eLearning will teach the participant the steps for identifying Indian Children, address practical steps to input information into FamLink, give Department of Children, Youth, and Families staff tips on completing Ancestry Charts and submitting referrals to the Native American Inquiry Request (NAIR) unit to fulfill the requirements of the Federal ICWA, as well as reviewing State Law and Department of Children, Youth, and Families policies.
DCYF staff can register for NAIR - Creating and Monitoring Your Native American Inquiry Request (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
The NCAST Parent-Child Interaction (PCI) scales are designed for parents/caregivers and children age birth-3 years (36 months). The PCI scales consist of two measures – a Feeding Scale and a Teaching Scale. Both scales are assessment tools which provide valid and reliable measurements of parent-child interactions. When used in child-welfare, either assessment can provide recommendations for services to strengthen parent-child interactions, both scales can also serve as reliable pre-/post- measures of progress made through service engagement.
In this training, you will learn how to use NCAST PCI scales as a tool to gather pertinent information about the parent-child dyad, assessment of parent-child interactions, and intervening with parents and young children. You will also gain a host of skills and knowledge to apply to your everyday interactions with children and families both inside, and outside the scope of these assessment scales.
As a result of the successful completion of this training, you can become certified assessors in one or both the Feeding Scales or the Teaching Scales. The Feeding Scales can be used with parents/caregivers and infants age 0-12 months (1 year old), the Teaching Scales can be used with parents/caregivers and infants age 0-36 months (3 years old). The scales can be used with all parenting and family scenarios (biological, adopted, blended, foster care, relative care, fictive kin, etc.) Certification, or reliability, is obtained through first practicing, and then scoring videos developed by the Parent-Child Relationship Program at the University of Washington. The videos depict parent-child interactions in both feeding and teaching scenarios.
DCYF staff can register for NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Feeding Scales Certification (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
The NCAST Parent-Child Interaction (PCI) Feeding Scales are designed for parents/caregivers and children age birth-1 year (12 months). The PCI Feeding Scales are an assessment tool which provides valid and reliable measurements of parent-child interactions. When used in child-welfare, these scales can provide recommendations for services to strengthen parent-child interactions, and serve as reliable pre-/post- measures of progress made through service engagement.
Once individuals become certified to use the PCI Feeding Scales, they must prove reliable through annual re-certification. This one-day course provides participants with the opportunity to achieve annual reliability in the use of this tool. Re-certification will allow individuals to maintain certification in the use of the PCI Feeding Scales.
Current Certification as an NCAST Assessor
DCYF staff can register for NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Feeding Scales Recertification through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
The NCAST/PCI scales are a prominent tool that child welfare workers use to gather information when assessing parent-child interactions and intervening with parents and young children. Being certified in the use of this tool supports workers’ ongoing assessment, case planning and permanency planning efforts with families. There are two scales, Feeding and Teaching, which often are used together.
The NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Feeding Scales Recertification course supports your knowledge-building with the opportunity to achieve reliability and to maintain your certification in the use of this tool.
DCYF staff can register for NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Feeding Scales Recertification (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
The NCAST Parent-Child Interaction (PCI) scales are designed for parents/caregivers and children age birth-3 years (36 months). The PCI scales consist of two measures – a Feeding Scale and a Teaching Scale. Both scales are assessment tools which provide valid and reliable measurements of parent-child interactions. When used in child welfare, either assessment can provide recommendations for services to strengthen parent-child interactions, both scales can also serve as reliable pre and post measures of progress made through service engagement.
In this training, you will learn how to use NCAST PCI scales as a tool to gather pertinent information about the parent-child dyad, assessment of parent-child interactions, and intervening with parents and young children. You will also gain a host of skills and knowledge to apply to your everyday interactions with children and families both inside, and outside the scope of these assessment scales.
As a result of the successful completion of this training, you can become certified assessors in one or both the Feeding Scales or the Teaching Scales. The Feeding Scales can be used with parents/caregivers and infants age 0-12 months (1 year old), the Teaching Scales can be used with parents/caregivers and infants age 0-36 months (3 years old). The scales can be used with all parenting and family scenarios (biological, adopted, blended, foster care, relative care, fictive kin, etc.) Certification, or reliability, is obtained through first practicing, and then scoring videos developed by the Parent-Child Relationship Program at the University of Washington. The videos depict parent-child interactions in both feeding and teaching scenarios.
Supervisor approval is required before registering for this course.
DCYF staff can register for NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Teaching Scales Certification (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
The NCAST Parent-Child Interaction (PCI) Teaching Scales are designed for parents/caregivers and children age birth-3 years (36 months). The PCI Teaching Scales are an assessment tool which provides valid and reliable measurements of parent-child interactions. When used in child-welfare, these scales can provide recommendations for services to strengthen parent-child interactions, and serve as reliable pre-/post- measures of progress made through service engagement.
Once individuals become certified to use the PCI Teaching Scales, they must prove reliable through annual re-certification. This one-day course provides participants with the opportunity to achieve annual reliability in the use of this tool. Re-certification will allow individuals to maintain certification in the use of the PCI Teaching Scales.
Current Certification as an NCAST Assessor
DCYF staff can register for NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Teaching Scales Recertification through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
The NCAST/PCI scales are a prominent tool that child welfare workers use to gather information when assessing parent-child interactions and intervening with parents and young children. Being certified in the use of this tool supports workers’ ongoing assessment, case planning and permanency planning efforts with families. There are two scales, Feeding and Teaching, which often are used together.
The NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Teaching Scales Recertification course supports your knowledge-building with the opportunity to achieve reliability and to maintain your certification in the use of this tool.
DCYF staff can register for NCAST/Parent-Child Interaction Teaching Scales Recertification (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Permanency Considerations (eLearning)Course Info
This course will provide participants with an overview of permanency planning for children in out of home care. This course will focus on the differences and similarities of adoption, guardianship and non-parental custody as concurrent plans. Participants will explore personal bias, how it influences their professional decision-making, and how to counter bias in making permanency decisions that reflect the best interest of children. All permanency options are explored and a case scenario will help participants understand the multiple factors to consider in determining the child’s best interest and best alternate plan.
***Supervisors: This eLearning may be completed individually or as a group during a unit meeting. If the eLearning is completed as a group, be sure to contact an Alliance coach to input completion of the eLearning training in LMS for all participants.
Supervisors may use the Supervisors Guide to Permanency Considerations eLearning (PDF) available here to promote a permanency discussion after caseworkers have taken the eLearning. (this is an optional activity)
DCYF staff can register for Permanency Considerations (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
This course focuses on the successful transition of pregnant and parenting youth involved with child welfare and covers specific case management activities. You will learn about your role and responsibilities to provide information to pregnant and parenting youth, including the Pregnant and Parenting Teen Guidebook and tip sheets (DSHS #22-1536), and utilizing a Shared Planning Meeting to identify services and community resources.
DCYF staff can register for Pregnant and Parenting Youth for DCYF Staff (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Program Manager Conference 2022Course Info
Program Managers from Department of Children, Youth, and Families will come together to learn how to strengthen their skills and discuss current practice. Sessions are pertinent to the daily work performed in offices across the organization including dynamic teaming, change management, project management, self-care/support, facilitation, CQI, Trauma and Resiliency.
Please register in The Learning Center (registration open until May 21).
On May 22, you will receive an email from the Event Planner about signing up on the Cvent website for access to the conference.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
-
May 24, 2022 9:00AM to 4:15PM
- May 26, 2022 9:00AM to 12:30PM
During this two-hour workshop, you will learn what characteristics make up quality contacts with caregivers and why quality contacts matter. You will have an opportunity to watch a social worker conduct a caregiver interview, and you can then apply skills observed to a case scenario. Throughout the workshop, Alliance coaches will support the integration of quality contacts into social work practice.
TO SCHEDULE A WORKSHOP for your unit or office, please contact:
- Patty Erdman - Region 1, 2, 3, and 4 pe3@uw.edu
- Christine Kerns - Region 5 and 6 kernsc9@uw.edu
A coach will be assigned and follow up to schedule a time and work out the details of the workshop.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
During this two-hour workshop, you will learn what characteristics make up a quality contact with children and youth during initial and on-going assessment and/or out-of-home placement, and why quality contacts matter. You will have an opportunity to watch a social worker conduct a health and safety visit with a youth, and then you will apply skills observed to a case scenario. Throughout the workshop, Alliance coaches will support the integration of quality contacts into social work practice.
TO SCHEDULE A WORKSHOP for your unit or office, please contact:
- Patty Erdman - Region 1, 2, 3, and 4 pe3@uw.edu
- Christine Kerns - Region 5 and 6 kernsc9@uw.edu
A coach will be assigned and follow up to schedule a time and work out the details of the workshop.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
During this two-hour workshop, you will learn what characteristics make up a quality contact with parents during initial and on-going assessment as well as out-of-home placement, and why quality contacts matter. You will have an opportunity to watch a social worker conduct a parent interview, and then you will apply skills observed to a case scenario. Throughout the workshop, Alliance coaches will support the integration of quality contacts into social work practice.
TO SCHEDULE A WORKSHOP for your unit or office, please contact:
- Patty Erdman - Region 1, 2, 3, and 4 pe3@uw.edu
- Christine Kerns - Region 5 and 6 kernsc9@uw.edu
A coach will be assigned and follow up to schedule a time and work out the details of the workshop.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Participants will leave this training with a common language and understanding of what is meant by cultural competence and the work they need to do to grow their ability to effectively engage across cultures, an understanding of Racial Microaggressions and why they are problematic, and an increased ability to have courageous conversation about difference and to effectively engage racial tension.
This training is presented by Dr. Caprice Hollins, co-founder of Cultures Connecting, LLC. Dr. Hollins received her doctorate in clinical psychology with an emphasis in multicultural and community psychology in 1998. She has over 14 years of experience teaching graduate courses, working with historically marginalized populations, researching, studying, and facilitating race related conversations. Her experience includes opening and directing the Department of Equity & Race Relations for Seattle Public Schools, developing and implementing district-wide and school-based trainings, while utilizing her background in psychology to assist district leaders and staff, institutionalize change to promote equity and social justice. She also currently works as a part-time core faculty in the department of counseling at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology.
DCYF staff can register for Racial Microaggressions: Developing Cross Cultural Communication Skills through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Following this eLearning you will be able to define the key elements in Random Moment Time Study (RMTS) and the role it plays in the agency’s work, as well as, your role and responsibility in completing the study. You will learn how to locate the RMTS notifications, determine proper coding for tasks completed during the sample, and properly document associated details into FamLink.
DCYF staff can register for Random Moment Time Study (RMTS) Roles and Responsibilities for DCYF Staff (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via AllianceSupport@uw.edu.
This eLearning will teach the participant the steps to initiate and monitor efforts completed by the Relative Search unit. When a child is in need of out of home care, the Department should be actively seeking placement of children with relatives. The centralized Relative Search unit assists staff to locate and identify relatives and this training will help staff learn about the process, required forms and how to gather detailed information from FamLink.
DCYF staff can register for Relative Search - Creating and Monitoring your Request (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Secondary Trauma: Impact and SolutionsCourse Info
This 3-hour course will help DCYF social workers and supervisors who do ongoing work in the child welfare system with identification of and responses to secondary trauma. The training will increase knowledge and understanding of the levels of secondary trauma, its impact, and how to manage the impact in our environment.
Phoebe Mulligan, LICSW serves as the Clinical Program Director at HopeSparks Family Services in Pierce County. Through her role as Clinical Director, Ms. Mulligan is committed to creating a team of therapists that are culturally responsive; current on best practices in the field; and building integrated systems that seek to respond holistically to children and adults who have been victims of trauma. Ms. Mulligan is regularly invited to speak regionally on Evidence-Based Practices (EBP), effects of trauma on children and adults; and as an expert on anxiety and trauma. Her audiences range from clinicians to judges and she is often a guest lecturer in social work master's programs. A graduate of Social Work program at the University of Washington, Seattle, Ms. Mulligan is passionate about reframing the legal paradigm of response to child trauma victims to be child-centric and creating systemic partnerships that remove barriers for children.
Christina R Fajardo, MA, LMHC is a licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Child & Family Therapist at HopeSparks, Tacoma, WA. She is responsible for providing individual/ family counseling using evidence based and best practices for mental health treatment of children and families. She is a certified instructor for the Incredible Years parenting program.
DCYF staff can register for Secondary Trauma: Impact and Solutions through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 19, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
The Child Safety Framework and the Structured Decision Making Risk Assessment are the tools that should guide caseworkers in making their most important decisions. Both tools aim to improve critical thinking and objective decision making, and ultimately to help DCYF correctly identify what level of intervention – from placement out of the home to providing referrals and case closure – is the most appropriate for each child and family. As a supervisor, you must understand these tools, but you also have a responsibility to integrate the tools into your supervision. This eLearning aims to strengthen your understanding by providing an overview of each of these tools. It also asks initial questions about how you might continue to integrate these tools into your work within your unit.
DCYF staff can register for Supervising for Safety: Decision Making Tools for Supervisors (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
The “Supervising for Safety” series comprises three webinars and an eLearning that aim to support supervisors in the understanding and application of assessment tools and integration of these tools into their supervision.
In this training you will consider how to support your staff in preventing and responding to safety threats in out of home care, and how integrating safety framework tools may help with this process. We will review a variety of situations, from initial assessment of a prospective caregiver, to issues needing immediate response in a current placement, to low-level concerns that over time impact the quality of care. You will also learn how biases impact our ability to spot serious abuse by out of home or adoptive caregivers. Lastly, you will make plans to integrate strategies into your supervision practice that help ensure that everyone attached to a caregiving setting is gathering sufficient information to identify and respond to concerns early – increasing the chance that we prevent unsafe placements and that we intervene as early as possible when a safety threat does occur.
The “Supervising for Safety” series is mandatory for Area Administrators. This individual webinar is mandatory for CFWS and LD staff.
DCYF staff can register for Supervising for Safety: Out of Home Care (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 5, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 21, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
The “Supervising for Safety” series comprises three webinars and an eLearning that aim to support supervisors in the understanding and application of assessment tools and integration of these tools into their supervision.
In this training, you will first identify the legal, policy and practice guidance that requires children remain home, or return home, whenever safely possible. Then, you will practice guiding a case worker in applying the safety framework tools to their case, and making a decision about whether it’s safe to return a child home. You will focus in particular on the safety threshold and safety plan analysis questions, which guide safety decisions once we have sufficient information about the family and situation. You will review guidance on safety planning, and consider how your supervision can support case workers in developing strong safety plans, and monitoring these until the safety threat is no longer active. Lastly, you will make plans to integrate strategies into your supervision practice that help ensure that the safety framework is integrated into all discussions you are having on this topic.
The “Supervising for Safety” series is mandatory for Area Administrators. This individual webinar is mandatory for CPS/FAR and CFWS staff.
DCYF staff can register for Supervising for Safety: Remain or Return Home Decisions (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 13, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
The “Supervising for Safety” series comprises three webinars and an eLearning that aim to support supervisors in the understanding and application of assessment tools and integration of these tools into their supervision.
In this training you will consider how the safety framework helps us make decisions about whether a child needs to be removed from their parent(s). We will also identify the legal and policy requirements that guide removal decisions. You will practice guiding a caseworker in applying the safety framework tools in their case and making a decision about whether a child needs to be removed from their home. We will focus in particular on gathering questions, and on how to support caseworkers in obtaining sufficient, relevant information before we make an assessment of whether a child is safe. Lastly, you’ll consider how you can better integrate the child safety framework into your supervisory practice when approving or discussing removal decisions.
The “Supervising for Safety” series is mandatory for Area Administrators. This individual webinar is mandatory for CPS/FAR and LD staff.
DCYF staff can register for Supervising for Safety: Removal Decisions (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 9, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
Supervisor Core Training provides the foundation for effective supervisory practice in the child welfare system. This program will prepare you to become comfortable in assuming your new role through learnings and field based activities about what it means to be a supervisor in the child welfare system and understanding the new responsibilities of this position.
You will be assigned a coach upon notification of hire to support you through the learning.
Part 1.1 of this course is designed to provide you critical information needed on Day 1 in your new role. When you complete this training, you will be able to effectively use FamLink, including managing cases and approvals and using the Tickler; recognize the structure and goals of Learner Centered Coaching; use the Administrative Incident Reporting Systems; understand the scope of Aiden’s Act Review; and be able to identify the components of clear documentation and your responsibilities around it. You will have reviewed your unit employees’ personnel information and identified gaps; be able to describe how power influences subordinate employees and develop a plan for self-awareness and self-management
This course consists of these eLearnings:
- Welcome to FamLink for Supervisors
- Introduction to Learner Centered Coaching
- AIRS/Critical Incidents
- Aiden’s Act
- Professional Documentation/Human Resources Division
These activities are part of this course:
- Personnel File Review (field-based learning activity completed prior to webinar)
- Everyday Leadership (video and field-based learning activity completed prior to webinar)
- Welcome and introduction to SCT overview with assigned coach (approximately 90 minutes)
DCYF staff can register for Supervisor Core Training 1.1: Essential Professional Tools (series) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Supervisor Core Training (SCT) provides the foundation for effective supervisory practice in the child welfare system. This program will prepare you to become comfortable in assuming your new role through learnings about what it means to be a supervisor in the child welfare system and understanding the new responsibilities of this position.
In this comprehensive and competency-based training program, you will have the opportunity to learn across multiple modalities including webinar, coaching, simulations, eLearnings and field-based activities. This lays the foundation for continuous on-the-job learning and professional development critical to your development as a competent, confident, and effective child welfare supervisor.
Throughout the classes, you will learn skills that you can take right back into your work, such as how to most efficiently use your time, and you will also tackle critical-thinking-focused topics such as how to build a strong team and how to work with your staff to ensure their continued growth.
At the close of Part 2.0 of SCT, you will be inspired and prepared to take on the challenges of this role and in a position to reap its rewards.
Participants will be registered for Part 2.0 by their coach from Part 1.1 and 1.2.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Supervisor ReadinessCourse Info
This three-hour course covers Situational Leadership and Supervisor Readiness (4Rs). The course will review the three necessary components and strategies to impact performance. The Situational Leadership Theory developed by Paul Hersey and Kenneth Blanchard presents a model that suggests that to be effective leaders, supervisors must match their leadership style to an individual worker’s level of job readiness (job maturity). The manager’s effectiveness depends on their ability to correctly identify the supervisor’s readiness level and to employ the appropriate leader style in that particular situation. Supervisor readiness for any task is determined by the supervisor’s ability and willingness.
DCYF staff can register for Supervisor Readiness through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 31, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
Supervisor Reflective Workshops (webinar)Course Info
Coaching is an important piece of ongoing professional growth, presenting opportunities for personalized skill development and self-assessment. As a supervisor, this takes on added significance as the learnings are applicable to both you and your staff. “Supervisor Reflective Workshops” give you the chance to discuss with your peers coaching successes and barriers, helping you grow and improve.
The workshops are intended to be attended after the completion of the “Learner Centered Coaching Skills for Supervisors and Area Administrators” course and support the integration of the model into supervisory practice. The sessions provide an opportunity for peer discussion around implementation of coaching with your teams. You may work through practice barriers together, or hear how coaching is applied and supports clinical supervision.
Enhanced skill-development opportunities such as how to assess for identified practice barriers, the use of reflective questions, motivational Interviewing strategies/techniques, providing feedback and the use of tools in coaching will be facilitated based on feedback and requests made from each independent group. These workshops will also provide an opportunity for you to think about coaching support you may want to identify and work on with your assigned Alliance coach.
If you have completed the Learner Centered Coaching for Supervisors course, an Alliance coach will register you for Supervisors Reflective Workshop (webinar) and provide you with the date and meeting link for the class. Individual learners do not need to self-register for this course.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
This course focuses on providing information and engaging in conversation about LGBTQ+ children, youth and families. You will learn about identifying and addressing systemic institutional and personal biases when serving LGBTQ+ children, youth and families. Activities and self-reflection exercises will prepare you to return to your work and create a welcoming, safe and affirming space. Included in this training is updated terminology, resources, and current data/statistics.
DCYF staff can register for Supporting LGBTQ+ Children, Youth and Families through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 3, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- Jun 9, 2022 9:00AM to 12:00PM
This three hour webinar course will provide opportunities for participants to utilize the various supervisory case review tools as well as reflective supervision to promote permanency, critical thinking and reflection when supervising staff. Ideally this session will be delivered to a combined group of CFWS and Adoption Supervisors to strengthen the connectedness between units and eliminate potential barriers to permanency. It is intended that this session and the materials presented will promote active participation and discussion in the context of real cases.
DCYF staff can register for Tools for CFWS/Adoption Supervisors (webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
- May 19, 2022 1:00PM to 4:00PM
Trauma Informed EngagementCourse Info
Trauma Informed Engagement is a 6-hour course applying lessons from trauma studies to child welfare practice for children, youth, and adults. Participants will discuss practice guidelines crucial to trauma informed practice in any setting. Participants will learn to distinguish trauma from other adversities and suffering; describe the characteristics, dynamics and effects of trauma; and emphasize the ways in which chronic trauma and complex trauma compromise normal functioning. Participants will learn to recognize and respond to situations involving the loss of control of body, mind, and emotions associated with trauma. Participants will practice, and commit to trauma informed engagement strategies, utilizing themes of empowerment, advocacy, and building resilience in children, youth, and adults.
DCYF staff can register for Trauma Informed Engagement through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
No classes have been scheduled for this course...
Washington State ICW Training (webinar)Course Info
In this two-session training, we will follow the flow of a Child Welfare case and how workers need to incorporate ICWA. DCYF has revised ICW Policies and Procedures and attendees will strengthen their foundational base about ICWA and learn about changes in policy and procedure as it applies to ICWA practice in Washington State.
DCYF staff can register for Washington State ICW Training (Webinar) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can request registration for this course using the Alliance External Registration form. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.
Classes Available
DCYF Staff Register Here
See Registration Instructions
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May 17, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
- May 18, 2022 9:00AM to 4:00PM
In this eLearning you will learn about the spectrum of Deaf, deaf and hard of hearing culture and how people’s culture and identity impacts their communication. In addition, you will learn about assistive communication technology and how to access these devices, setting up an environment that is conducive to communication with the deaf or hard of hearing person. You will explore ways to engage with an interpreter to support positive and productive communication when a person’s primary language is sign language. If the person you are working with has a severe hearing loss and requires C.A.R.T interpretation services or an axillary listening device to support communication, you will learn how to recognize and access the needed supports. By the end of the eLearning you will understand DCYF expectations when working with clients with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act and DCYF Administrative Policy 6.03: Access to Services for Individuals with Disabilities.
DCYF staff can register for Working With People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing: Culture and Communication through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via AllianceSupport@uw.edu.
Participants learn the characteristics associated with youth who are at risk for running away, and key strategies to reduce the likelihood of running behavior. Policy and procedural requirements are presented. The components of a Run Prevention Plan are covered, as well as the fundamentals of conducting a debriefing meeting to assess the youth's immediate needs upon their return.
DCYF staff can register for Youth Missing from Care (eLearning) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.