Supporting children in therapy means understanding that they never exist in isolation—they are deeply connected to families, schools, communities, and other systems that shape their development and well-being. This training offers a comprehensive look at how to work effectively and ethically with children by engaging the systems around them.

Participants will explore systemic thinking, relationship-based practices, and culturally responsive approaches to child therapy. Emphasis will be placed on building collaborative relationships with caregivers, navigating school and community partnerships, and integrating systemic context into clinical case conceptualization. Through interactive discussion and case examples, clinicians will learn strategies to strengthen their work with children by honoring the strengths, challenges, and cultural dynamics of the systems they live in.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Describe how family, school, and community systems impact a child's emotional, behavioral, and relational development.

• Apply a systemic lens to case conceptualization and treatment planning when working with children.

• Utilize collaborative strategies for engaging caregivers, educators, and other key system partners in the therapeutic process.

• Navigate common challenges such as caregiver conflict, school communication barriers, and differing cultural values across systems.

• Integrate culturally responsive, developmentally appropriate, and trauma-informed practices into child and family work.

• Demonstrate confidence in balancing the therapeutic relationship with the child while maintaining alignment and communication with the systems that support them.