1.  Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Anger

This presentation aims to equip youth workers with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Anger in adolescents. The session will begin by establishing a foundational knowledge of the adolescent brain, highlighting its unique developmental characteristics. We will then examine the impact of environmental factors on brain development, emphasizing how these changes can contribute to the manifestation of mental health issues.  Participants will gain a clear definition of Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Anger, exploring their symptoms, causes, and effects on youth behavior and well-being. The training will introduce trauma-informed care approaches, providing practical tools and techniques to support youth affected by these conditions. Finally, we will discuss evidence-based strategies for managing and mitigating these challenges, empowering youth workers to foster a supportive and nurturing environment for adolescents.  By the end of this training, participants will be better equipped to understand and address the mental health needs of the youth they serve, promoting resilience and positive outcomes. 

2.  Building an Empathic Culture

This presentation is designed to empower youth workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to foster an empathic culture within their organizations. The training will begin by identifying common barriers to connection, such as communication gaps, preconceived notions, and emotional defenses, which can hinder effective engagement with youth.  Participants will delve into the concepts of vulnerability and trust, exploring their critical roles in building meaningful relationships. The session will highlight the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces where all feel comfortable expressing their emotions and experiences.  The training will also focus on the mid-brain's role in managing difficult conversations. By understanding the neurological underpinnings of emotional responses, youth workers will be better equipped to navigate challenging interactions with empathy and composure.  Finally, the presentation will address the importance of establishing healthy boundaries. Participants will learn strategies to maintain professional and personal boundaries that support both their well-being and the well-being of the youth they serve.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a deeper understanding of how to create and sustain an empathic culture, ultimately enhancing their ability to connect with and support adolescents effectively. 

3.     Compassion Fatigue

This presentation aims to provide youth workers with a thorough understanding of compassion fatigue and its impact on their professional and personal lives. The training will begin by defining trauma, exploring its various forms and the profound effects it can have on individuals, particularly youth. Next, the session will focus on compassion fatigue, a condition characterized by emotional and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to the suffering of others. Youth workers will learn to identify the signs of compassion fatigue and understand its underlying causes, enabling them to take proactive steps to mitigate its effects.  The training will introduce five essential resiliency skills designed to combat compassion fatigue. These skills will include strategies for self-regulation, exploring values, perceptual maturation, seeking support and self-care. By incorporating these techniques into their daily routines, youth workers will be better equipped to maintain their well-being and continue providing effective support to the youth they serve.  By the end of this training, participants will have a comprehensive toolkit to recognize, prevent, and manage compassion fatigue, fostering a healthier and more sustainable work environment. 

4.     Co-Regulating and Connecting

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster co-regulation and connection with the youth they serve. The training will begin with an exploration of the nervous system, focusing on its role in emotion and behavior. Participants will gain insights into how the nervous system responds to stress and the importance of co-regulation in helping youth manage their emotions.  The session will emphasize the critical role of connection in promoting emotional well-being. Participants will learn about the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with youth and how these connections can serve as a foundation for effective co-regulation.  The training will also cover strategies for building reassurance, routine, and regulation. Youth workers will learn practical techniques for creating a predictable and supportive environment that helps youth feel safe and secure. This includes developing routines that promote stability and using reassurance to help youth navigate challenging situations.  Finally, the presentation will address the importance of setting limits, establishing boundaries, and repairing relationships. Participants will learn how to set clear and consistent boundaries that support both their well-being and the well-being of the youth they serve. The session will also cover strategies for repairing relationships when conflicts arise, ensuring that connections remain strong and supportive.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of co-regulation and connection, along with practical tools and techniques to support the emotional and behavioral needs of the youth they serve. 

5.     Advanced Co-Regulation and Connection   *this is a 2-hour training minimum

This advanced training session is designed for clinically trained youth workers to deepen their understanding of co-regulation through the lens of polyvagal theory. The presentation will begin with an introduction to polyvagal theory, providing a comprehensive overview of its principles and significance in understanding human behavior and emotional regulation.  Participants will explore the vagus nerve, delving into its critical role in the body's autonomic nervous system. The session will cover the anatomy and functions of the vagus nerve, highlighting its influence on physiological and psychological states.  The training will then focus on the three organizing principles of polyvagal theory: neuroception, hierarchical organization, and co-regulation. Participants will learn how these principles guide the body's responses to safety and threat, and how they can be applied in therapeutic settings to support youth.  Understanding how trauma impacts the nervous system is a key component of this training. Participants will gain insights into the ways trauma can dysregulate the autonomic nervous system, leading to challenges in emotional and behavioral regulation. The session will provide strategies for recognizing and addressing these impacts in youth.  Finally, the presentation will introduce the maps of polyvagal theory, offering practical tools for implementing these concepts in clinical practice. Participants will learn how to use these maps to guide interventions, promote co-regulation, and support the healing and resilience of youth affected by trauma.  By the end of this training, clinically trained youth workers will have an advanced understanding of polyvagal theory and its applications, equipping them with the skills to enhance their therapeutic practice and support the well-being of the youth they serve.

6.     Creating a Healthy Relationship with Technology 

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to help youth develop a healthy relationship with technology. The training will begin by providing a foundational understanding of the adolescent brain, including its unique developmental characteristics and how technology influences brain development and functioning.  Participants will explore the impact of gaming on mental health, examining both the potential benefits and risks associated with gaming.  The training will also examine the effects of social media on mental health. Participants will gain insights into how social media use can influence self-esteem, body image, and social interactions. The session will highlight the importance of fostering critical thinking and digital literacy skills to help youth navigate social media in a healthy and balanced way.  Finally, the presentation will provide practical strategies for developing a healthy technology plan with youth. Participants will learn how to create guidelines and routines that promote balanced technology use, encourage offline activities, and support overall well-being.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of the impact of technology on the adolescent brain and mental health, along with effective tools and techniques to support youth in developing a healthy relationship with technology. 

7.     Difficult Conversations

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the skills and strategies necessary to navigate difficult conversations effectively. The training will begin by exploring the factors that contribute to making a conversation difficult. Participants will gain insights into the emotional, psychological, and situational elements that can create challenges in communication, particularly when addressing sensitive or contentious topics with youth.  The session will emphasize the importance of maintaining self-regulation during difficult conversations. Participants will learn techniques for managing their own emotional responses, staying calm, and remaining focused. Preparation is key to successfully engaging in difficult conversations. The training will provide participants with tools and frameworks for preparing to initiate and sustain these conversations. By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of difficult conversations and be equipped with practical skills to handle them with confidence and effectiveness. This will enhance their ability to support and guide the youth they serve through challenging discussions, fostering a more open and supportive environment. 

8.     Family Engagement

This presentation is designed to enhance youth workers' ability to engage families effectively, fostering stronger connections and support systems for the youth they serve. The training will begin by identifying the barriers that youth workers themselves may inadvertently put up, such as communication styles, biases, and organizational practices that hinder family involvement.  Participants will then explore additional potential barriers stemming from attachment issues, grief, and trauma. Understanding these factors is crucial for recognizing the complex dynamics that can affect family engagement. The session will provide insights into how these barriers manifest and impact the relationships between youth, their families, and youth workers.  The training will offer practical strategies for breaking down these barriers. Participants will learn techniques for building trust, improving communication, and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for families.  Finally, the presentation will introduce the involvement model, a structured approach to increasing family engagement. Participants will learn how to implement this model to foster collaboration, empower families, and enhance the overall support network for youth. By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of the barriers to family engagement and be equipped with effective strategies and tools to overcome them. This will enable them to build stronger, more supportive relationships with families, ultimately benefiting the youth they serve. 

9.     Grief and Loss

This presentation aims to equip youth workers with a comprehensive understanding of grief and loss, focusing on the unique needs of youth experiencing these challenges. The training will begin by defining the various types of grief, including anticipatory grief, complicated grief, and disenfranchised grief.  The session will emphasize the importance of cultural responsiveness in addressing grief. Participants will explore how cultural beliefs, practices, and values influence the grieving process.  Developmental perspectives in grief will be a key focus of the training. Participants will learn how grief manifests differently across various developmental stages, from childhood through adolescence. This understanding will enable youth workers to tailor their support to the specific needs of youth at different ages and developmental levels.  Finally, the presentation will provide practical strategies for working with youth experiencing grief. Participants will learn techniques for creating a supportive environment, facilitating open communication, and helping youth navigate their grief journey. This includes recognizing signs of complicated grief and knowing when to seek additional professional support.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a thorough understanding of grief and loss, along with the skills and knowledge to support youth through their grieving process effectively. This will enhance their ability to foster resilience and promote healing in the youth they serve. 

10.  High Risk (Suicide and Non-Suicidal Self-Harm)

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively support youth experiencing suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-harm. The training will begin by defining non-suicidal self-harm, exploring its various forms, underlying causes, and the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to this behavior. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the differences between non-suicidal self-harm and suicidal behaviors, enhancing their ability to identify and address these issues.  The session will also define suicidal ideation, providing insights into its prevalence, risk factors, and warning signs. Participants will learn how to recognize youth experiencing suicidal thoughts, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.  Building the wall of resistance is a key component of this training. Participants will learn strategies to help youth develop resilience and coping mechanisms that reduce the likelihood of self-harm and suicidal behaviors. This includes fostering a supportive environment, promoting healthy emotional expression, and teaching practical skills for managing stress and emotional pain.  Finally, the presentation will address the importance of including caregivers in the conversation. Participants will learn how to engage caregivers in a collaborative approach, providing them with the tools and knowledge to support their children effectively. This includes strategies for open communication, education on the signs and symptoms of self-harm and suicidal ideation, and guidance on how to provide ongoing support.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-harm, along with practical strategies for intervention and support. This will enhance their ability to create a safe and supportive environment for the youth they serve, promoting resilience and well-being. 

11.  Mental Health Diagnoses and Reducing Stigma

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand mental health diagnoses and reduce the stigma associated with these conditions. The training will begin by emphasizing the importance of educating oneself on mental health. Participants will learn about various mental health disorders, their symptoms, and the impact they can have on individuals' lives.  The session will include sharing real-life examples of people with mental health struggles. These stories will provide a humanizing perspective, helping participants to empathize with those experiencing mental health challenges and recognize the diversity of experiences.  Understanding the range of symptoms associated with mental health disorders is crucial for effective support. Participants will gain insights into the different ways mental health issues can manifest, enhancing their ability to identify and respond to these symptoms in the youth they serve.  Listening to and supporting individuals with mental health concerns is a key focus of the training. Participants will learn active listening techniques, strategies for providing emotional support, and ways to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for youth to express their feelings and experiences.  Finally, the presentation will highlight stories of overcoming mental health disorders. These narratives will serve as powerful examples of resilience and recovery, inspiring participants and providing hope to the youth they work with.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of mental health diagnoses and practical strategies for reducing stigma. This will enhance their ability to create a supportive and inclusive environment for the youth they serve, promoting mental well-being and resilience. 

12.  Motivation

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to effectively motivate youth. The training will begin by providing a foundational understanding of the adolescent brain, including its unique developmental characteristics and the baseline functions that influence behavior and learning.  Participants will explore the profound impact of trauma on the brain, examining how traumatic experiences can alter brain development and functioning. The session will also address the ways in which environmental factors have changed the brain, highlighting the importance of creating supportive and nurturing environments for youth.  The training will emphasize the critical role of connection in motivating youth. Participants will learn about the importance of building strong, trusting relationships and how these connections can serve as a foundation for effective motivation.  Understanding ways to motivate youth through both external and internal motivators will be a key focus of the session. Participants will gain insights into various motivational strategies, including rewards, recognition, goal-setting, and fostering intrinsic motivation. The training will also cover techniques for building emotional intelligence, helping youth develop self-awareness, self-regulation, and social skills that enhance their ability to stay motivated.   Finally, the presentation will provide practical strategies for motivating everyday tasks. Participants will learn how to create engaging and meaningful activities that promote sustained motivation and positive outcomes for youth.   By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence motivation in adolescents and be equipped with effective tools and techniques to inspire and support the youth they serve.

13.  Overcoming Parenting Guilt to Raise Resilient Youth

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to support parents in overcoming guilt and fostering resilience in their children. The training will begin by emphasizing the importance of building strong connections with youth. Participants will learn techniques for establishing trust, open communication, and emotional bonds that serve as the foundation for healthy development.  The session will explore the concept of co-regulation, highlighting its role in helping youth manage their emotions and behaviors. Participants will gain practical skills for co-regulating with youth, including strategies for modeling calmness, providing reassurance, and creating a supportive environment.  Motivating youth is another key focus of the training. Participants will learn about various motivational strategies, including the use of external and internal motivators, goal-setting, and fostering intrinsic motivation. The session will provide insights into how to inspire and encourage youth to achieve their full potential.  Finally, the presentation will introduce the six pillars of resilience, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding and promoting resilience in youth. Participants will learn how to apply these principles in their work, helping youth develop the skills and mindset needed to navigate challenges and thrive.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a deeper understanding of how to support parents in overcoming guilt and raising resilient children. They will be equipped with practical tools and techniques to build connections, co-regulate, motivate, and foster resilience in the youth they serve. 

14.  QPR Gatekeeper Certification Training  *this is a 2-hour minimum training

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively implement the Question Persuade Refer (QPR) method, a critical approach for suicide prevention. The training will provide a comprehensive overview of the QPR method, emphasizing its importance in identifying and responding to individuals at risk of suicide. Participants will learn how to recognize the warning signs of suicide and understand the appropriate questions to ask to assess risk. The session will cover techniques for persuading individuals to seek help, highlighting the importance of empathy, active listening, and providing hope. Additionally, participants will gain insights into the referral process, including how to connect individuals with appropriate mental health resources and support services.  By the end of this training, youth workers will be equipped with practical tools and strategies to confidently and effectively intervene in situations involving suicidal ideation, ultimately contributing to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of mental well-being among the youth they serve. 

15.  Resilience in Youth and Families

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to foster resilience in both youth and their families. The training will begin by focusing on the identification of stress and trauma. Participants will learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress and trauma in youth, understanding their profound impact on emotional and behavioral development.  The session will introduce the six pillars of resilience, providing a comprehensive framework for promoting resilience. These pillars include fostering positive relationships, encouraging a growth mindset, promoting self-regulation, building problem-solving skills, enhancing self-efficacy, and nurturing a sense of purpose. Participants will gain insights into how these principles can be applied to support youth and their families in developing resilience.  Motivating youth is another key focus of the training. Participants will explore various strategies to inspire and encourage youth, including the use of external and internal motivators, goal-setting, and fostering intrinsic motivation.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a comprehensive understanding of how to identify and address stress and trauma, apply the six pillars of resilience, and effectively motivate youth. This will enhance their ability to support the well-being and resilience of the youth and families they serve.

16.  Trauma Focused Trainings

a.  Trauma and Trauma Informed Care

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with a comprehensive understanding of trauma and the principles of trauma-informed care. The training will begin by defining trauma, exploring its various forms, and examining the profound effects it can have on individuals, particularly youth. Participants will gain insights into the symptoms and consequences of trauma, enhancing their ability to recognize and address these issues in their work.  The session will then focus on implementing a trauma-informed care model. Participants will learn the core principles of trauma-informed care, including safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. The training will provide practical strategies for creating a supportive and nurturing environment that acknowledges the impact of trauma and promotes healing and resilience.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a thorough understanding of trauma and be equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to implement a trauma-informed care model. This will enhance their ability to support the well-being and recovery of the youth they serve, fostering a more compassionate and effective approach to care. 

b.  Trauma, Secondary Trauma, and Resilience

This presentation is designed to equip youth workers with a comprehensive understanding of trauma, secondary trauma, and strategies for building resilience. The training will begin by defining trauma, exploring its various forms, and examining the profound effects it can have on individuals, particularly youth. Participants will gain insights into the symptoms and consequences of trauma, enhancing their ability to recognize and address these issues in their work.  The session will also focus on compassion fatigue, a condition characterized by emotional and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to the suffering of others. Participants will learn to identify the signs of compassion fatigue and understand its underlying causes, enabling them to take proactive steps to mitigate its effects.  Building resilience is a key component of this training. Participants will learn strategies to foster resilience in both themselves and the youth they serve. This includes developing coping mechanisms, promoting self-care, and creating supportive environments that enhance emotional and psychological well-being.  By the end of this training, youth workers will have a thorough understanding of trauma and secondary trauma, along with practical tools and techniques to build resilience. This will enhance their ability to support the well-being and recovery of the youth they serve, fostering a more compassionate and effective approach to care.