NC Children with Complex Need Ask the Expert Series 2026

Title of Training: Executive Functioning & Support Strategies 

Training Description: 

This live training will provide participants with an in-depth exploration of executive functioning impairments and its implications for youth with dual diagnoses 

Learning Objectives:  

1. Increase understanding regarding executive functioning deficits for youth with dual diagnoses 
2. Increase understanding of executive functioning skills  
3. Identify grounding co-regulation strategies to address executive functioning support needs 
4. Identify resources to support youth with executive functioning deficits and their families in NC 

Agenda:  

Part 1:  

12:12:10pm- welcome/introduction of speaker/housekeeping items 

12:10-1:45pm- presentation/instruction 

1:45-2pm- Q& A/closing remarks 

2pm- conclusion of training  

Part 2:  

12-12:05pm- Welcome and housekeeping  

12:05-12:20pm- Short review/presentation of topic 

12:20-1:30pm- Q&A/closing remarks 

1:30pm- conclusion of training

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Title of Training: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Special Implications for Dually Diagnosed Youth

Training Description: 

 This training will provide participants with increased knowledge of traumatic brain injury including implications for supporting youth and their families.   

Learning Objectives:  

1. Increase understanding of key terminology surrounding traumatic brain injury (TBI) 
2. Increase understanding of special implications for youth with a traumatic brain injury 
3. Identify resources for supporting youth with a traumatic brain injury in NC 

Agenda:  

Part 1:  

12:12:10pm- welcome/introduction of speaker/housekeeping items 

12:10-1:45pm- presentation/instruction 

1:45-2pm- Q& A/closing remarks 

2pm- conclusion of training  

Part 2:  

12-12:05pm- Welcome and housekeeping  

12:05-12:20pm- Short review/presentation of topic 

12:20-1:30pm- Q&A/closing remarks 

1:30pm- conclusion of training 

 

Maggie Robbins is the Clinical Director for NC START Central where she has loved working since 2017. She is a Registered Drama Therapist and loves infusing creative arts therapy with the core principles of START, especially positive psychology and PERMA. As the Clinical Director at NC START, Maggie provides training and consultation on topics related to supporting individuals from a Trauma Informed and Positive Psychology lens. Maggie’s top strengths are: Perspective, Fairness, Kindness, Love and Humor.  

 

 

Molly Hastings joined the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina as an Outreach Coordinator in July 2023. When a need for a Camp Director emerged in 2024, she stepped into the role, and shortly after in March 2025, she also took on the position of Statewide Training Coordinator. Molly was then promoted to Statewide Training Manager in November 2025. In this position, she advances the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina’s mission by delivering education, training, and resources to professionals, survivors, caregivers, and communities across the state, ensuring individuals impacted by brain injury have access to informed support systems and services. As Camp Director, she also fosters connection, healing, and empowerment through transformative camp experiences.

Prior to joining the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina, Molly worked at Craig Hospital in Colorado, a nationally renowned rehabilitation center for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury. She also played a key role in one of Denver’s first concussion clinics, gaining vital experience in supporting individuals and families through the often unseen challenges of brain injury.

Molly holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Science. Her passion for this work stems from witnessing the profound, life-altering effects of brain injury, not only on survivors, but also on their support networks. With experience in both inpatient rehab and community settings, she is dedicated to bridging gaps in understanding and care so that no one faces recovery alone.


Madeline Attianese joined the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina in December 2025 as the Special Populations Outreach Coordinator. In this role, she focuses on reaching high-risk and often overlooked groups, including children in foster care, older adults, veterans, survivors of intimate partner violence, and people experiencing homelessness, to ensure they receive meaningful brain injury prevention, education, and advocacy support. With a background in public health and a career rooted in nonprofit work, Madeline is passionate about building equitable environments where all North Carolinians can access the resources they need to thrive. Previously serving as a Research Lead, she brings a strong commitment to evidence-based, people-centered solutions and proudly embraces her reputation as a data nerd. Madeline holds a BA in Public Health from Elon University and is currently pursuing her MPH from George Washington University. Although she does not have personal experience with TBI, she is driven by the gaps she has seen in research and care and is excited to contribute to meaningful change. Outside of work, Madeline enjoys hiking, staying active, diving into mystery novels, listening to 90s country music, and spending time with her large, close-knit family.