Course Description

In 2015, a survey by the Canadian Mental Health Association found that 46% of girls and 26% of boys in grades 7 to 12 reported symptoms of anxiety and depression. Clinicians are experiencing a rise in children, youth and their families struggling to cope with debilitating symptoms that are affecting their day-to-day lives. There is a growing need for therapists to expand their understanding as to the complexity of potential influences, as well as develop effective interventions, for anxiety and depression across childhood to adolescence. In addition, therapists are increasingly being called upon to work collaboratively with the communities such as schools and extra-curricular organizations to assist in better serving struggling young people.

Childhood and adolescent anxiety and depression must consider the relationship between the larger systemic context of the twenty-first century and individual and family stress related to challenges with diminished internal and external resources, culture, developmental transitions, etc. Discussions will also focus on individual and family resiliency within a strength-based perspective. Participants can expect lively discussions, a multi-media presentation and hands-on practical applications and exercises.

Over the course of two days we will explore:

• The prevalence of child and adolescent anxiety and depression in today’s society.
• The various forms of anxiety with an emphasis on generalized and social anxiety as well as school avoidance.
• The characteristics of anxiety and depression and associated developmental frameworks in understanding symptoms on a continuum.
• Individual, family and broader systemic influences, including parenting and family dynamics, domestic and community violence, the role of social media, societal demands and expectations, attachment relationships and culture.
• Building resilience in youth, families and communities.
• The unique contributions of various treatment models including, attachment, CBT, systemic, narrative and mindfulness.
• The importance of a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach.
• The practical application of strategies to enhance a therapist’s skills.
• The importance of collaborating with community partners.

Notes

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Child and Youth Mental Health Certificate : Child and Youth Mental Health Certificate