Coaching the Coaches: Beyond Good Intentions: Addressing Ableism in FCS Service Provision

This training examines how ableism, often subtle and systemic, shows up in our behavioral health services. Participants will build awareness, identify practice-level impacts, and develop concrete strategies to promote equity, autonomy, and recovery-oriented services for individuals. Participants will explore how ableism can be embedded in everyday decisions, including goal setting, service planning, documentation, and risk assessment. The session will explore how even well-intentioned practices can unintentionally limit opportunity when expectations are lowered or choice is constrained. Participants will leave with practical tools to recognize and interrupt ableism strengthening engagement and advancing more equitable service delivery across Washington State FCS programs.