Trauma and substance use: Introduction to Compassionately Supporting Youth Who Use Substances

Trauma and substance use: Introduction to Compassionately Supporting Youth Who Use Substances

Presented by SickKids CCMH Learning Institute

Date: DateDate: July 8, 2026

Time: 1 to 4 p.m. ET 

Facilitator: Leora Rich, MSW, RSW

CE hours: 3

Client age category: For professionals who work with clients aged 12 to adulthood

Description: Substance use poses multifaceted challenges and often co-exists with experiences of trauma. Did you know:

• Young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental illness and/or substance use disorders than any other age group.
• People with a mental illness diagnosis/psychiatric diagnosis are twice as likely to have a substance use disorder compared to the general population. At least 20% of people with a mental illness diagnosis/psychiatric diagnosis have a co-occurring substance use disorder.

(Source: CAMH - Mental Illness and Addiction: Facts and Statistics)

This training will focus on supporting youth clients who have experienced trauma and substance use, emphasizing a compassionate approach. We will begin by reviewing foundational information on substance use, including key terminology, understanding internal biases and reviewing different drug classifications. Participants will explore the principles of harm reduction and trauma-informed care for youth clients who use substances. This training combines theory, frameworks, therapeutic techniques, and practical applications to effectively work with clients.

Learning objectives:

• Understand the risks and reasons why individuals use substances. 
• Explore the connection between managing trauma symptoms and substance use.
• Build introductory knowledge of the impact of trauma on the body.
• Learn trauma-informed application of harm reduction principles.
• Build knowledge of terminology, types of substances, risks, and vulnerabilities for developing challenges with substance use.
  
  

Registration fee: General - $150  |  Student and group rates are available

For full program overview and registration details please visit:  https://cvent.me/ZgQ8en

Facilitator Bio: Leora Rich, MSW, RSW

Leora Rich, MSW, is a clinical social worker currently working in private practice. Leora has experience providing therapy and support to youth and their families through direct treatment, therapy, program evaluation and program development. She has worked within different community mental health and hospital settings across the GTA and has supported many justice-involved youth.

In her previous role as clinical manager at East Metro Youth Services, Leora provided training nationally to interdisciplinary service providers on the subject of gender-based violence and human trafficking.

Leora is passionate about working with youth who are experiencing challenges with their substance use. She is dedicated to increasing capacity for service providers to best support youth struggling with concurrent disorders. With a strong commitment to providing trauma-informed care, she enjoys educating other service providers in this model of care.

Leora is committed to continuous learning and engaging in discussions about health equity, anti-racism and trauma-informed care. 

Continuing Education (CE) information:  3 CE hours

SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health Learning Institute is approved by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) to offer continuing education (CE) hours. The number of eligible CE hours are outlined within each program. SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health Learning Institute maintains responsibility for the programs.

Other licensing boards and professional organizations will grant continuing education credits for attendance at their own discretion; participants will need to submit the course outline and Certificate of Participation for their consideration.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed on the latest programming and promotions: Subscribe Now

Follow our social channels to stay connected:
X/Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn