Foster Care Training

This interactive, didactic course on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for youth and families features an exploration of a scientifically-supported treatment for childhood depression, anxiety, anger, aggressive and disruptive behavior, substance use, self-harm, suicidality, attention, eating disorders, sleep, school refusal, traumatic stress, physical pain, and other issues. The course will begin by defining CBT, provide an overview of relevant research supporting its use, and include a “how to” section on implementing CBT strategies with youth and families in the context of therapy. Topics and techniques covered will include: the role of psychoeducation; helping youth identifying triggers (e.g. why “situations” are as important as “genetics”); the CBT cycle of thoughts, feelings and behaviors; teaching youth about “emotions in the body;” identifying, naming, and talking back to cognitive distortions; coping strategies such as relaxation, mindfulness, and self-soothing techniques; the importance of thought- and behavior-tracking; and the role of parent training. Handouts and study materials will be provided, and students will have the opportunity to practice and role-play techniques in class.