Presented by CASA of Ventura County in Collaboration with FKCE

Instructor: Dr. Judy Sullivan Osterhage
Self-harm can be frightening and confusing for caregivers, yet for many youth it is an attempt to cope with overwhelming pain, shame, or numbness. This class helps foster and resource parents understand the “why” behind cutting and other destructive behaviors, and how to respond in ways that promote safety, trust, and healing rather than punishment or fear.
Participants will explore common risk factors for youth in care—including trauma, abuse, isolation, depression, and feelings of powerlessness—and how self-injury can become a learned coping strategy. We’ll address myths and stereotypes, warning signs, and the difference between self-harm and suicidal intent. Caregivers will learn how to talk about self-injury without judgment, how to avoid reinforcing the behavior, and how to encourage professional support.

Your Instructor: Dr. Judy Sullivan Osterhage is a Parent Coach Consultant with Parenting Matters & an Early Childhood Specialist. She holds a Doctorate in Elementary Education, and with that, has brought educational trainings to foster and adoptive parents for over 30 years!

CE Hours: 2