Available for the 25-26 training year

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

This program offers specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of child and adolescent suicide-risk, self-harm, and depression. Training emphasizes evidence-informed and evidence-based treatment strategies, with an emphasis on treatments developed and/or tested in YSAM programs, specifically: emergency evaluation and acute care strategies (Family Intervention for Suicide Prevention/SAFETY-Acute); dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) informed cognitive-behavioral approaches (SAFETY); DBT; and cognitive-behavior therapy for depression. YSAM programs are family-centered and aim to mobilize strengths in the youth, family, and community. YSAM treatment approaches were listed in the National Registry of Evidence Based Practices (nrepp.samhsa.gov) and are listed in federal guides on suicide prevention and treatment (SAMHSA, HRSA).

The YSAM program includes our SAMHSA Center for Trauma-Informed Adolescent Suicide, Self-Harm & Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention (ASAP) which is part of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. YSAM clinical care and treatment strategies are also used in our NIMH Zero Suicide trial, a randomized trial of stepped care for suicide prevention in teens and young adults. Trainees electing a research rotation will have opportunities to learn about our national dissemination program through the ASAP Center, as well as our research projects. The YSAM elective provides excellent opportunities for individuals interested in research, clinical service evaluation and quality improvement, and clinical care.

YSAM Clinic & Didactics

2:00pm-6:00pm, Friday. This time includes didactics, supervision, and clinical care. Patient evaluations, individual and family treatment is conducted during this time. Trainees will be offered experience with DBT groups which currently occur on Tuesdays from 5:00-6:30pm, but this is not required and available as space permits. We will work to provide all who are interested some multi-family group experience.

Overview of YSAM Clinical Activities

The YSAM Program provides evaluation and treatment for children and youths presenting with suicidal and/or self-harm behavior, elevated risk for suicide/self-harm, depression, and/or difficulties with emotion regulation and stress management. The clinic operates on Friday (2-6 pm) and Tuesday (5-6:30 pm) in the UCLA 300 Medical Plaza building. Other appointment times may be possible.

YSAM emphasize adolescents, but services for younger children may be offered. Services include:

• Crisis/Acute Care Evaluation & Intervention

• Evaluation

• Consultations

• Individual & Family Centered Treatment

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy, including multifamily group treatment

DAY, TIME AND LOCATION:

Fridays 2:00-6:00, 300 Medical Plaza, Room 1208

DBT group (Not required): Tuesday, 5-6:30

HOURS PER WEEK:

4-5

DURATION OF ELECTIVE:

6-month commitment required; full year blended clinical/research/service preferred

FACULTY AND STAFF:

Joan Asarnow, Ph.D. & Jeanne Miranda, Ph.D., Directors

Lucas Zullo PhD, Jocelyn Meza PhD, Natalia Jaramillo PhD

TRAINING PROVIDED:

Evaluation, and acute care for youths with elevated risk of suicidal/self-harm behavior

DBT

DBT-informed family centered cognitive-behavioral approaches

Cognitive-behavior therapy for depression

Clinical skills with Gender and Sexual Minority Youth.

Minimum commitment: 4 hrs./week if YSAM clinic patients are seen. Participation in didactics only will be considered when appropriate and feasible.

Please contact Dr. Asarnow if you are interested in this option. More information can be found at www.asapnctsn.org and http://www.semel.ucla.edu/mood/youth-stress

DIVERSITY TRAINING:

The YSAM clinic works with people from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, sexual, gender identity, and cultural backgrounds. As a part of best practice, discussions in team case conference, presentations, and supervision routinely take into consideration diversity and cultural considerations. Readings and didactics are also used to increase the trainee’s awareness and competency in the treatment of clients with diverse backgrounds. Further, trainees may also take advantage of opportunities to participate in research on adaptions of treatments to best serve our diverse populations. If interpreters are required to facilitate the assessment process, specific supervision regarding the sensitive and appropriate use of live interpretation (online interpretive services are not used) will be provided.

SUPERVISION PROVIDED:

Method of Supervision: Direct Observation and Case presentation

Format: Individual and Group

Hours Per Week: 2-6 (.50 of group, .50 of individual)

Days and Times: Friday 2-6 PM; optional Tuesday 3 – 6 PM

Names of Supervisor(s): Joan Asarnow, PhD; and Jeanne Miranda, PhD