Learning Opportunities

March 6

This workshop is designed for professionals, rehabilitation practitioners, educators, social workers, counsellors, or psychologists who work with youth aged 5-18. A blend of both educational and applied learning will be utilized throughout the workshop. The workshop will consist of information about the most common anxiety disorders in school aged children: separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety, as well as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Information presented will include the diagnostic criteria for these anxiety disorders, myths and misconceptions, how these specific anxiety disorders can impact the child, and what it “looks” like within home settings, school as well in the community.

March 7

This workshop will utilize an applied style of learning, with participants gaining knowledge of various cognitive-behavioural strategies they can employ to help support children and youth either diagnosed with a specific anxiety disorder, or, demonstrating behaviours that might be indicative of an emerging anxiety disorder. These strategies will be demonstrated via role play, video demonstration, and open group discussion, and will be aimed to target “what to do” in school, community, and home settings. There will be time allotted throughout the workshop for ongoing question and answer discussion to help bring concepts to life and to allow participants the opportunity to practice skills.