A major focus in behavioral health care is the reduction of stigma to help bridge the gap in access to quality care for marginalized communities. Supportive and motivating language is essential for engaging persons already burdened with dealing with the challenges that come from substance use disorders, mental illness, physical disabilities and more.
People-first language highlights and respects the individuality, equality, and dignity of people with disabilities. This interactive training will provide a review and practice skills on the use of person-first language which aligns with person-centered care, as an effective means of enhancing the provider-client communication and reducing bias perspectives with racial and ethnic populations, persons with disabilities and other underserved communities.
Diana Padilla, MCPC, CARC, CASAC-T
