New Workshop on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Announced by Care Plus NJ

Paramus, NJ, April 19, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) affects 1 in 100 infants in North America and is the most common developmental disorder, as published by SAMSHA, Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Canadian Pediatric Society. Its prevalence is more than that of autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, and sudden infant death syndrome combined. Findings such as these indicate a need for education, training, and discussion, and are the basis for the Care Plus NJ May workshop “Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).”

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is an umbrella term describing the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These effects can include physical, mental, behavioral, and learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications.

In this workshop, participants will gain an understanding of how FASD is diagnosed. Additionally, the goal is to raise awareness of FASD as a secondary diagnosis and explore the areas of development and function that are affected. Participants will also learn strategies to help build life skills support as well as the importance of building social support for this population.

The presenter, Gal Koren, MD, FRCPC, is the follow-up coordinator and needs assessment lead for the Motherisk Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Clinic at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

“This program is a valuable resource for anyone who works with children in an educational context including teachers, school administrators, and professional support staff, as well as parents and caregivers,” stated Joseph Masciandaro, President and CEO of Care Plus NJ. “In addition, clinicians will benefit from the strategies presented, and gain a better understanding of FASD and how to address behavioral health issues related to this disorder.”

The workshop will be held on May 21, 2012 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Care Plus NJ facility located at 610 Valley Health Plaza in Paramus, New Jersey. The registration fee is $30. For more information or to register, visit the Care Plus Innovations website at www.CPI-NJ.org or contact Lindsay Rivera 201-265-8200 extension 211.

About Care Plus NJ Inc.
Care Plus NJ is a northern New Jersey provider of recovery-focused mental health, substance abuse and family services that addresses the unique needs of individuals with a holistic approach to recovery and overall wellness. Through our subsidiaries we are enabled to extend our efforts to training, education, and empowerment to clinicians, caregivers, and clients alike.
About Care Plus Innovations

Care Plus Innovations, the educational support subsidiary of Care Plus NJ, strives to empower individuals to maximize their potential by providing optimal behavioral solutions. We also believe the community has the ability to affect significant positive change in the lives of those suffering with mental illness. Therefore, CPI provides the resources and vital tools necessary for individuals and family members, as well as the community, as they work towards wellness.