Understanding Neurodiversity: Better Support System-Involved Youth [6 CEUs]

Understanding Neurodiversity: Strategies for Inclusion and Advocacy to Better Support System-Involved Youth [6 CEUs]

Trainer: Dr. Marya Wright, DSW, LCSW

Date: November 07, 2025

Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm

Location: Virtual – Zoom

Agency: City College San Francisco

Participants must complete registration via the City College San Francisco website in order to gain full access to the training course.

COMPLETE REGISTRATION HERE: https://ccsf-extension.pdx.catalog.canvaslms.com/browse/contracted/title-iv-e/courses/mw015k-understanding-neurodiversity-strategies-for-inclusion-and-advocacy-to-better-support-system-involved-youth--6-ceus-tive036-202580

Description

This introductory training is designed to foster a deep understanding of neurodiversity and equip participants who work with System Involved Youth with practical strategies for promoting inclusivity and advocating for the rights of neurodiverse individuals. The training will cover the diverse spectrum of neurodiverse conditions, their impact on various environments, and the importance of creating accommodating spaces that celebrate differences. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain valuable insights and tools to create an inclusive and supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals in their communities, workplaces, and educational institutions. The material will be delivered by PowerPoint presentation, short video clips, group discussion, breakout (small group) discussions, and participant workbook (handout).

Learning Objectives

• Participants will understand the concept of neurodiversity and recognize the diversity within the spectrum of neurodiverse conditions for working with System Involved Youth.
• Participants will identify the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals, System Involved Youth, in different settings, including educational environments and workplaces.
• Participants will acquire practical strategies for creating inclusive environments through the implementation of universal design principles and tailored communication techniques for supporting System Involved Youth.

Transfer of Learning Goals

• Participants will be able to exhibit an awareness of best practices for advocating neurodiversity, including strategies for addressing stigmas and promoting a culture of acceptance and respect for System Involved Youth.
• Participants will be able to access and utilize various resources and support networks available for System Involved Youth, individuals, families, and professionals dealing with neurodiverse conditions, thereby contributing to a more supportive and inclusive society.

Founder & Lead Trainer Bio

Marya Wright, DSW, LCSW (#128392), is a nationally distinguished Black social worker, consultant, published author, educator, and facilitator with extensive experience in organizational leadership, child welfare services, and curriculum development. As the Founder and CEO of Marya Wright Consulting LLC, Dr. Wright is dedicated to empowering system-involved families through awareness, services, and education. She also provides consultation, training, and facilitation to agencies serving these communities.

Dr. Wright earned her master’s in social work from Cal State East Bay, specializing in child welfare policy and research, and a bachelor’s in social work with a focus on Child Welfare Services and Motivational Interviewing from San Diego State University. She holds a doctorate in social work from the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, focusing on achieving equal opportunity and justice in the child welfare system.

As a community leader, Dr. Wright prioritizes building relationships, networking, and collaborating with stakeholders to address social and economic issues faced by clients, aiming for justice and peace. She has served as a qualified expert witness and forensic social worker. Additionally, Dr. Wright sits on the Board of Directors for the National Phi Alpha Honor Society and is actively involved with the National Association of Social Workers and California Chapter.

Dr. Wright’s research interests include child sexual exploitation, foster care, and algorithmic decision-making in child welfare. She has published articles and lectured extensively on these topics. Dr. Wright’s teaching experience includes courses in sociology and social work at Cal State East Bay, since January 2020, focusing on sexualities, child welfare policy, family sociology, and sexual violence. Currently, she serves as a professor in the graduate program teaching generalist practice, human behavior and social environment, and advance practice children youth and families.