Learning Opportunities

Collaborative Problem Solving®(CPS), developed by Think:Kids of the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital, starts with the philosophy that all kids want to do well and will do well if they can.  This evidence-based approach to managing challenging behaviour promotes the understanding that challenging kids lack the skill –not the will– to behave; specifically, skills related to problem-solving, flexibility, and frustration tolerance.

Unlike traditional models of discipline, the CPS approach avoids the use of power, control, and motivational procedures, and instead focuses on collaborating with the child/youth/young adult to solve the problems leading to challenging behaviour and building the skills they need to succeed.  Additional information and resources can be found at: www.thinkkids.org

Tier 1 Training is designed for educators, clinicians, and other professionals who want to apply the CPS approach with the kids in their lives. Participants will learn all three components of the approach – assessment, planning, and intervention. Attendees are also exposed to the neurobiology behind CPS and how CPS operationalizes the latest research on trauma-informed care.

Tier 1 incorporates lectures, case studies, interactive role-play, video examples, and breakout groups. The training also provides practical guideposts and materials to help participants use the model in their daily lives.