This training examines the clinical implications of social injustice, racism, and historical oppression on youth, families, and communities. Through the facilitator’s lived experience as an African-American and Puerto Rican woman, participants will explore how intergenerational trauma, colonization, and structural racism shape emotional and behavioral health outcomes.

Clinicians will review how exposure to injustice — including police violence, mass incarceration, voter suppression, wealth disparities, and the school-to-prison pipeline — can contribute to both direct and vicarious trauma in youth, even when these topics are not openly discussed. The training addresses common reasons clinicians may avoid these conversations and the clinical impact of silence.

Participants will engage in reflection, video-based learning, and applied discussion to strengthen their ability to facilitate developmentally appropriate conversations with youth. Emphasis is placed on trauma informed communication, cultural humility, and clinician self-care to promote ethical, sustainable practice.