Intergenerational Trauma and Youth Serious Mental Illness (SMI): A Family-Systems Training
Overview
This training examines the impact of intergenerational trauma on adolescents experiencing serious mental illness (SMI), emphasizing a family-systems approach. Participants will learn to integrate evidence-based tools — such as genograms, psychoeducation huddles, repair conversations, and relapse-prevention planning — into clinical practice. Special attention will be given to culturally responsive care, including the influence of racism, immigration, and disability on family dynamics. The training combines lectures, case vignettes, role-play, and guided reflection to provide immediately applicable skills for engaging youth and families in treatment. This training is intended for field-based mental health and outreach workers in Los Angeles County. Anytime session recorded on March 10, 2026.
Learning objectives
- Describe at least 3 pathways (behavioral, social, biological/epigenetic) through which intergenerational trauma affects youth with SMI
- Create a three-generation genogram and eco-map for a case vignette, identifying trauma patterns and supports
- Demonstrate a 15-minute family psychoeducation huddle and evaluate its effectiveness in reducing expressed emotion
- Discuss an ABFT-informed repair conversation that promotes trust and emotional safety between caregivers and youth
- Develop a relapse-prevention and safety plan that integrates early warning signs, coping strategies, and culturally relevant community resources