CASA Calendar

Presented by VCOE, FKCE, CASA
Instructor: Raquel Montes
How well can you regulate, relate, and reason in an intense moment?
This foundational training builds on trauma-informed care to help caregivers respond with confidence and compassion when emotions run high. Developed and taught by two licensed clinical social workers, the course deepens your understanding of how trauma and adverse childhood experiences shape a child’s ability to feel safe, learn, remember, and grow—especially for youth in foster care during critical stages of development.

No matter your role in a child’s life—short-term or long-term—you can be a powerful source of healing. This curriculum guides participants to PAUSE (honor Presence, create Attunement, promote Understanding, provide Support, and foster Engagement) that opens the door to growth and connection.

Through practical tools, real-life strategies, and reflective learning, you will strengthen your ability to stay grounded, look beyond behaviors, and respond in ways that nurture resilience. Join us to learn how to meet challenging moments with intention—turning everyday interactions into meaningful opportunities for safety, trust, and healing.

This class assumes the following pre-requisites:

Working definition of trauma, ACES, ACE score, and/or prior attendance at basic trauma training. To fulfil this please refer to Module 01 - Defining Trauma, Types of Trauma, Six Principles of Trauma Informed Care.
We also recommend viewing ReMoved: Part 1; Trigger Warning: this video contains depictions of unstable housing, domestic violence, and family separation.
Raquel Montes, MSW, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience in child welfare and behavioral health. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she specializes in trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices that strengthen the capacity of caregivers, educators, service providers, and community leaders. Raquel is a certified national trainer in Bringing the Protective Factors to Life in Your Work and Equity in Early Childhood Education and has trained professionals on cultural competency and supporting youth impacted by trauma. Drawing from her work as a clinician, program administrator, and consultant, she provides practical strategies to help schools create safe, inclusive, and resilient learning environments. Outside of her professional role, Raquel is the proud mother of two youth and welcomes adolescents into her home. She treasures the experience of raising youth alongside her own children and their dog Rascal.

CE Hours: 4 (for attending both evenings)