Effectively Advocating for Students in the Public Schools

3 Category 1 CEUs*, Zoom based, live and interactive

This training is designed to equip mental health professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively support and advocate for clients navigating the public education system. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of special education laws, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and Section 504 Plans, along with practical strategies for collaborating with school teams.

Through real-world scenarios and actionable guidance, this training will help clinicians identify when educational support is warranted, how to interpret and contribute to school documentation, and how to empower families in advocating for services. Learn how to reframe school challenges, facilitate communication between systems, and ensure clients have equitable access to the resources they need to succeed.

Objectives

1. Understand the basics of special education law, including IDEA, FAPE, LRE, IEPs, and Section 504 Plans.
2. Recognize when a student may qualify for educational supports based on academic, emotional, or behavioral needs.
3. Learn how to effectively navigate and participate in school-based meetings, such as IEP, 504, and manifestation determination meetings.
4. Gain practical strategies to support clients and families, including data collection, creative problem-solving, and collaboration with schools.
5. Increase confidence in advocating for appropriate accommodations and services that align with a client’s unique needs.

Presenter

Samantha (Sam) Steinberg is a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for empowering youth and families. She holds a BA in Psychology from West Virginia University (Let’s Go Mountaineers!) and an MSW from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. Sam brings a wealth of experience from working across diverse settings—including residential treatment centers, inpatient psychiatric units, schools, and outpatient programs.

At Capital Youth Services, Sam is a key member of the DBT team and holds specialized training in DBT for Children, Adolescents, Families, and Couples. She has particular expertise in DBT for Children (DBT-C) and is a member of the international training and research team led by developer Dr. Francheska Perepletchikova. Sam is known for her collaborative, skill-based approach to therapy and her dedication to fostering strong, supportive relationships.

With deep knowledge of the public school system, Sam helps families understand educational processes and advocates effectively for appropriate supports and services. Her practical, strengths-based style makes her a sought-after clinician and trainer.

*Continuing Education Information

Rathbone & Associates is authorized by the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland to sponsor social work continuing education programs and maintains full responsibility for the programs and their content. These trainings qualify for Category I continuing education units. Please contact your state board for verification of reciprocity with other states and professions. In order to receive a certificate, registrants must attend the entire session.

Rathbone & Associates is a sponsor of continuing education credits for psychologists in Maryland under the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Rathbone & Associates maintains responsibility for the program content.