Presenter(s): Lynne Rachlis and a representative from Wayside Family
Services - All Day Program (10:00-2:00)
Part I:Special
Education Advocacy for Students with Psychiatric Disabilities
In this session, the first portion of SPAN’s annual all-day workshop,
Lynne Rachlis will provide an overview of advocacy approaches and strategies for students whose mental health disabilities
and/or psychiatric hospitalization have resulted in social, emotional, behavioral or academic difficulties in school, at home,
or in the community at large. Lynn’s presentation will include a handout of advocacy
tips and significant time for Q&A . Part II:What Does Rosie D. Mean for My Clients? Later in the day, we will discuss the many
changes over this past year in the supports available for children with mental health needs. In some ways there are
more supports, but depending on a child’s health insurance, it may actually be more
difficult than ever to gain access to coordinated services. Participants will learn more about recent legislation and
changes to mental health law that are affecting many children with
special needs; what children’s rights are in the educational setting; and what community resources can be accessed
in order to create a comprehensive care plan for children with Mental Health care needs.
