Supporting clients with mental health conditions requires more than knowledge, it requires empathy, attunement, and skillful, culturally responsive practice. That’s why the Adult Protective Services Workforce Innovations (APSWI) team, in partnership with Southern California APS programs, designed and delivered a transformative training series focused on Mental Health in APS.
Recognizing a growing need in the field, APSWI co-created this training series in close partnership with Southern California Adult Protective Services programs to help professionals go beyond surface-level understanding and build a deeper, more practical foundation for supporting clients with mental health needs, diagnosed or not. Facilitated by Brenda Wilson-Codispoti, Workforce Development Specialist and expert in trauma-informed care, this training environment was crafted with intentional care: a space where participants could reflect, engage, and grow without fear of judgment.
Every single participant who completed the end-of-day survey reported that the space felt safe and supportive—two essential ingredients for any meaningful learning experience, especially when the content is emotionally complex.
Participants were not only informed, they were transformed.
Here’s what they shared:
“I will be more aware of the realities of my client’s everyday lives and be able to empathize and tailor my interview style to the client’s personalized experiences.”
“This helped me better understand how undiagnosed conditions can show up—and how I can respond in a supportive, thoughtful way.”
“I learned that one disorder may mimic symptoms of another, and that there are specific strategies for engaging clients experiencing depression or suicidal ideation.”
In a field where APS professionals often encounter the effects of trauma, isolation, and underdiagnosed mental illness, this kind of learning doesn’t just build knowledge—it builds confidence, connection, and clarity. It helps professionals see the whole person, and adapt their approach with care.
We’re proud to lead with purpose, innovation, and partnership. And we’re especially proud to support a workforce committed to meeting clients where they are with empathy, insight, and practical tools that make a difference.