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Training through the Family Empowerment Network

FEN offers various training opportunities for parents, other caregivers and professionals who work with children and adults with FAS/FAE. Since the goal of our education is to assist all those individuals who are involved with the success of the child/adult with FAS in his/her community, our training is directed toward many disciplines: physicians, nurses, treatment center staff, AODA counselors, teachers, social workers, parents, criminal justice professionals, vocational counselors, counselors, and group home staff, to name a few. We offer many types of training sessions, ranging from one hour to one semester!


2007 Trainings:

For more courses on AODA please go to: www.dcs.wisc.edu/classes/alcohol.htm

An exciting series of three workshops have been developed for the fall of 2007. Join us for one or all! For a complete brochure detailing speakers and pricing, please contact Kristi Obmascher at kristi.obmascher@fammed.wisc.edu

6 hours of professional continuing education will be offered. Contact Kristi Obmascher for details.

All workshops will be held at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. A workshop confirmation, parking information and directions will be sent upon receipt of registration.

September 21, 2007: Young Children with FASD
This workshop will begin with an overview of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Developmental and mental health implications for children with FASD will be examined along with a model of providing support for families while providing skills-development for providers and caregivers who work with children.

October 26, 2007: Model Programs to Prevent Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancies
Workshop faculty will present current information on the impact of alcohol on women and the effects of alcohol on pregnancy. Exciting new models and programs aimed at reducing alcohol-exposed pregnancies will be showcased. Participants will be provided with self-guided change publications for distribution to clients at-risk.

November 8, 2007: FASD Training of Trainers Annual Refresher
If you have completed the 4-day FASD Training of Trainers in Wisconsin, please contact Kristi Obmascher about attending this one-day refresher! Learn the exciting new advances in the field, and plan to stay for the November 9 workshop (see below)!

November 9, 2007: Providing Effective Substance Abuse Treatment and Aftercare for Adults with FASD
This workshop will explore the substance abuse treatment needs of adults with FASD. Screening and assessment materials for FASD will be provided, along with tips and tools for transition planning and addressing the vocational and residential needs of individuals with FASD.


2008 Trainings:

April 3 - 4, 2008: National Conference on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD): Evidence-Based Strategies to Support Individuals, Families, and Communities Affected by FASD

This two-day national conference will offer keynote addresses, breakout sessions, poster presentations, and exhibits sharing state-of-the-art information and strategies for providers, families, and communities affected by FASD. Space is limited.

Attention: we will accept abstract submissions for workshop sessions or poster presentations. To be considered, requests must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, October 1, 2007. You may now submit an abstract online.

View: pre-registration information PDF
View: abstract submission instructions PDF
View: downloadable abstract submission form Word


FEN can customize a training to meet your needs. Here is a menu of potential topics:


Overview of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

  • Diagnostic Criteria
  • Differential Diagnoses


Developmental Implications of FAS/FAE

  • Physical and behavioral implications throughout the lifespan


Intervention Strategies for Parents and Professionals

  • Environmental modifications in home, school, work, and community settings
  • Behavioral modifications
  • Positive Behavior Support


FAS in the Criminal Justice System

  • Roles of the Individual with FAS within the criminal justice system
  • Representing the Client with FAS
  • Determining competency in individuals with FAS
  • From arrest to trial: Advocating for the client with FAS


FAS in the Vocational Rehabilitation System

  • A Supported Employment model for FAS
  • Vocational modifications
  • Appropriate Assessment tools and tips
  • Counseling the client with FAS


Therapeutic Interventions and the Client with FAS

  • Appropriate counseling theories and strategies
  • Individual vs. group counseling


Working with Women in AODA Treatment

  • Screening children for FAS/FAE
  • Supporting Aftercare planning for parents of children with FAS/FAE


Prevention of FAS

(608) 262-6590 or toll-free at 1-800-462-5254. E-mail fen@fammed.wisc.edu.