Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Trauma Informed Care

Course Overview

This course will explore the effects that adverse child experiences—or ACEs—can have on CalWORKs program participation. Topics include the intersectionality of trauma and the ways that social determinants of health are related.

About ACEs

ACEs are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years), and can include experiences such as violence, abuse or neglect; witnessing violence in the home; and other aspects of the child’s environment that can undermine their sense of safety, stability and bonding such as parental substance misuse, mental health problems or parental separation. ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness and substance misuse in adulthood. These experiences can also negatively impact education and job opportunities.

 Learning Objectives

After attending this training, participants will be able to understand:

• How trauma impacts us (ourselves, our clients and our colleagues)
• How to apply an understanding of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) responsibly
• The Impact of trauma on the brain and body
• The basics of trauma informed care