2026.04.30. CMHLS: From Adversity to Resilience: Understanding ACEs and Positive Childhood Experiences in Practice

Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network's CMHLS

Presents:

From Adversity to Resilience: Understanding ACEs

And

Positive Childhood Experiences in Practice

With:

Christopher Clark, PH.D

Date: April 30, 2026

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Location: Virtual - Zoom Meeting

https://dwihn-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/U4uFF_hcRhaOl_fA6zy_LA

Course Description:

This training introduces clinicians and social work practitioners to the concepts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and their influence on long-term mental and physical health outcomes. Participants will explore how early life adversity contributes to toxic stress and affects behavioral, emotional, and developmental outcomes in children and across the life course. The training will also highlight emerging research demonstrating how supportive relationships, safe environments, and community connections can buffer the effects of ACEs and promote resilience.

Through a combination of lecture, discussion, and case-based activities, participants will examine how trauma-informed and resilience-oriented frameworks can be applied in clinical and community settings. The training will emphasize practical strategies social workers and mental health professionals can use to recognize the impacts of childhood adversity while intentionally fostering positive experiences that support healthy development and long-term wellbeing.

Course Objectives:

· Define Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and describe their relationship to long-term mental, behavioral,      and physical health outcomes.

· Explain the concept of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and how they can buffer the effects of childhood    adversity.

· Identify behavioral and emotional responses in children that may reflect toxic stress or trauma exposure.

· Apply trauma-informed and resilience-based approaches to support children and families in clinical and                  community practice

Time Agenda:

· 11:00 -11:30 Introduction to ACEs, childhood adversity, and long-term health outcomes

· 11:30–12:00 Toxic stress, brain development, and behavioral responses to trauma

· 12:00–12:30 Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and the science of resilience

· 12:30–1:00 Application for social work practice, case discussion, and participant reflection

Registration / Walk-In Policy

Registration is required. Walk-ins WILL NOT be permitted. Register to ensure your attendance.

Photo Consent

By joining us at this event, attendees consent to Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network's Detroit Wayne Connect photographing, videotaping and using your image and likeness.