Families

Fall sessions start September 11 and will feature a series on youth and caregiver mental health. Topics will include understanding therapy options, emotion dysregulation, fixation and coping with negative feelings, strength-based approaches, sleep and bedtime routines, and caregiver support resources.

Email projectecho@uwyo.edu for information about joining an in-person host site in Casper (Spanish speaking), Cheyenne, Laramie, Jackson (English or Spanish), Pinedale, Rock Springs, or Thermopolis.

This presentation will provide a practical overview of different types of therapeutic supports relating to autism and advanced healthcare needs, with a specific focus on (1) distinguishing between different types of services across multiple domains (e.g., general goals of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, mental health supports), (2) identifying different types of mental health supports, specifically, and (3) sharing practical resources for families.

Presenter: Christina McDonnell, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Wyoming

This session offers an overview of emotion regulation in youth, focusing on understanding its importance, identifying key emotion regulation strategies, and providing effective support for youth. Signs of dysregulation and challenges related to emotion regulation will also be discussed. Though the focus of this presentation will be on supporting youth, emotion regulation strategies are relevant and important across the lifespan and may also apply to adults and caregivers more broadly.

Presenter: Kate Breitenfeldt, Clinical Psychology Graduate Student, University of Wyoming

This session offers an overview of supporting youth with how to identify and name negative feelings and how to cope when experiencing negative feelings. We will also emphasize practical tools to use when experiencing negative emotions.

Presenter: Meisa Khaireddin, Clinical Psychology Graduate Student, University of Wyoming

Participants will learn strategies for incorporating strength-based approaches and about identifying their child's strengths and communicating strengths and areas for support.

Presenter: Theresa Andrzejewski, Clinical Psychology Graduate Student, University of Wyoming

Join us for information on how to set children up for success in their slumber. Skills will include setting a bedtime routine, limiting distractions before bed, and sticking to the routine to best benefit the household.

Presenter: Emily Miller, Clinical Psychology Graduate Student, University of Wyoming

Presenter: TBA

Presenter: Parent Panel