Training

The PLX certificate program incorporates both face to face and virtual classroom instruction as well as discussion with online supplemental coursework and practice consultation to guide the learning experience. Completion of this certificate program will provide learners with knowledge, skills, practice opportunities and a supportive multidisciplinary community in which to learn and collaborate. Learners will develop a deeper understanding of adolescent development, issues and challenges facing youth in systems, and increasing positive engagement and supportive relationships between youth and the people who serve them.

PLX is open to all professionals, regardless of race, ethnicity, or national origin. Thanks to generous funding support from the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, PLX is pleased to offer registration for the cohorts at a reduced rate of $350 + $40 registration fee. Learners will be asked to regularly provide feedback about the content, activities, flow, and facilitation of the sessions.

There are limited FREE enrollment spots for those employed by one of Minnesota's 11 federally-recognized tribes. The Minnesota Child Welfare Training Academy is sponsoring additional scholarships* (less the $40 registration fee) available to professionals employed by a Minnesota county in a child welfare role (child protection, foster care, permanency/adoption). Inquire with the PLX Coordinator, Leah Strom, at [email protected].

*Scholarship funding is dependent on available federal and state funding dedicated to this training project.

Funding generously provides a limited number of travel stipends for participants who travel a significant distance (75+ miles one way) for training. Inquire with the PLX Coordinator for more information.

• PLX Fundamentals: Three days of in-person training sessions (online for the virtual cohort) and accompanying online learning modules that are mandatory for all learners.
• PLX Electives: Six one day “deep dive” virtual elective training sessions and online learning modules. Learners are required to attend four (but may attend all six at no additional cost).
• PLX Consultation: Professional consultation sessions conducted virtually in between the training sessions. Learners are required to attend and participate in six of nine assigned consultation sessions. Consultation sessions will be virtual and last 2 hours per session.
• PLX Simulation: One in-person simulation-based learning experience, designed to allow learners to practice their knowledge and skills in simulated settings. All simulations take place on the University of Minnesota campus in the Twin Cities.

Once all components of the certificate are completed, learners will receive a certificate of completion and 70+ general CEUs approved by the MN Board of Social Work.

• Learners need to have earned a BA/BS degree or have 5 years or more of work experience with adolescents/youth.
• For the purposes of applying skills learned in the classroom, learners should currently have a professional role where they are in contact with adolescents/youth involved in or at risk of being involved in child welfare/juvenile justice.

PLX offers two cohorts, one hybrid and one virtual cohort. Click on a cohort title to see the calendar.

*Please note program dates may be subject to change. Should there be any updates to program dates, it will be noted here.