Young people experiencing risk factors such as trauma, family instability, substance use, involvement with juvenile justice systems, or other significant challenges require specialized, culturally responsive approaches to care. Working effectively with at-risk youth demands understanding of complex trauma, resilience building, and the intersection of individual, family, and systemic factors.

This resource collection provides trauma-informed care principles, engagement strategies for building trust with vulnerable populations, and evidence-based interventions that address the unique needs of at-risk youth. Resources include approaches for working with adolescents who may be resistant to traditional therapy, strategies for addressing co-occurring issues, and tools for building protective factors and resilience.

You’ll also find guidance on collaborative care approaches, working within community systems, understanding the impact of adverse childhood experiences, and supporting youth in developing healthy coping strategies and positive future planning.

Books:

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma: van der Kolk M.D., Bessel: 9780143127741: Amazon.com: Books
The Deepest Well
by Nadine Burke Harris, M.D.
 
 
 
Dibs in Search of Self
by Virginia M. Axline, Ed.D.
 
 
The Healing Power of Play: Working with Abused Children 
by Eliana Gil, Ph.D.
 
 
 
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.

 
 
Creative Interventions with Traumatized Children
by Cathy A. Malchiodi, Ph.D.