This 1-hour video presentation highlights that while we may not be a mental health professional, we can ask questions to enhance our best interest advocacy and use resources to get them answered if we know about: 

  • Best practices
  • Requirements; and 
  • Resources 


Please join presenter, Laurie Blades (GAL Director of Child Behavioral Health Advoacy) as she provides relevant guidance as well as multiple resources to consider when considering fundamental principles of childhood development, the impact of trauma and its relation to children and families served by child welfare. 


Additional notes for GAL Volunteers and/or Staff: 

  • OPTIMA TRAINING TOPIC:  (Volunteers & GAL Staff):  "ACEs/Effects of Trauma"
  • CAM CERTIFICATION DOMAIN: Legal, Ethical and Professional Responsibilities
  • CLE Certificate number and information provided at completion of course.    





Original Webinar Date: April 22, 2022

Director of Children's Behavioral Health Advocacy

Laurie Blades, M.A., CPM

Ms. Blades received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor is Special education and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. She is a Certified Public Manager and has worked in the human services field in both the private and public sectors in the areas of children’s mental health, juvenile justice, special education and child welfare for twenty five years. She has provided direct services to children and youth with mental health and behavioral conditions as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and mental health counselor. In addition, she served as the Chief of Children’s Mental Health and recently as the Deputy Director of Substance Abuse and Mental Health for the state mental health authority, the Florida Department of Children and Families. She has served on many councils and boards related to children’s mental health and has extensive knowledge of Florida’s system of care serving children, youth and their families.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Young Children in Foster Care are Fragile: Handle with Care

    • Course Information & Video

    • Quick Review